Isaac Sharp and Asbjorn Kloster in the Faroe Islands (April – June 1862)

Journal of Isaac Sharp - May 1, 1862

A morning of bright sunshine! To-day the new governor of Faroe enters on his duties; the captain of our crew has to appear before him officially, so we conclude to go overland on foot, leaving the boat and men to follow by sea, as soon as may be.

Kirkjubour

A capital roadway has been formed for a considerable distance out of Thorshaven (Torshavn), to the end of which we pass and then take to the moor, ascending the high ridge which separates one part of the island from the other. In about three hours we reached Kirkeboe (Kirkjubour), where resides a rich peasant in a large well-furnished house; his son, who has travelled on the continent of Europe, and who speaks a little English, gave notice for a little meeting; about thirty soon came together, and before we parted our visit was agreeably acknowledged by both father and son; the latter showed us some curiously carved panelling, and an ancient throne or chair, apparently many hundred years old and of Romish origin, all of which are in the kirk in use at the present day.

There was a swelling current in the Fiord along which we sailed, between Waagoe (Vagar) and Stromoe (Streymoy); the coast was rugged and grim, and toward evening it became bleak and chill. About seven we landed at Westmanshaven (Vestmanna), the merchant, at whose house we called, was from home, but his amiable wife received us courteously, and very willingly sent out to give notice of a meeting for the morrow.