Historic Viking carving comes to Iola
A massive cottonwood tree stump is being transformed into a Viking holding a pair of skis and leaning on an axe by master carver "Buzzsaw Bob" Halverson in Iola.
Halverson expects to finish the carving in time for the annual Iola Old Car Show.
The skis the Viking will be holding portray the Nordic heritage of cross country skiing and ski jumping. The Iola Winter Sports Club just celebrated its 100th anniversary this year. The axe represents the village's start as a lumber center, with the nearby Iola Mills celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. The village of Iola and the surrounding area has a large population of Norwegian descent.
The tree stump is located in Iola's new Farmer's Market on E. State Street (State Highways 161 and 49), across from Iola Living Assistance.
Funds from individuals and businesses are being raised to finance the carving.
Buzzsaw Bob
"Buzzsaw Bob" Halverson is a genuine Norwegian from Baraboo. He has been a wood carver for over 20 years.
Like his father, Halverson built log homes. He then became intrigued by a wood carving and decided to give it a try.
Halverson and his chain saw have been featured on "The View" with Barbara Walters.
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