Dartmouth’s Giant Viking Sold, Finds New Home

Anyone who grew up in or around Dartmouth has most likely seen the giant Viking on Route 6.

The 15-16 foot wooden figure has been in the area for years, owned by Mary-Ann Sylvia. Sadly, Mary-Ann passed away back on August 2 at the age of 86, leaving behind her son Stanley, her daughter, Debra Ann, her husband Thomas, five grandsons, three great-grandchildren and finally, her beloved Viking.

The last I spoke with Mary-Ann was back in 2016.

I'll never forget how kind-hearted and soft-spoken she was. What a treat it was to hear her speak of the Viking's history and all the mishaps that occurred along the way with unsuccessful thieves. Miraculously, he never fled from his home, and Mary-Ann never put a price tag on him.

"Many people have tried to buy and make offers to purchase the Viking, but I couldn't sell him. He's been apart of my life and will be until I die," she told me a few years back. Those were the last words we spoke together about the possible sale of her cherished Viking.

Moving forward, I had heard through the grapevine that Mary-Ann's house was for sale and that the Viking was gone from the property. Finally, after years of sitting and watching over Route 6, the giant Norseman had left his post.

On the sidewalk by the corner of the house was a realtor post and a number that led me to Mary-Ann's daughter, Debra Raposa. We spoke briefly, and she had the answers for which I had been searching.

For years, a gentleman from Tiverton, Rhode Island had his eyes on the Viking, but Mary-Ann refused the offer every time. When the house went up for sale, he made one last offer and he succeeded. The Viking will be going to his house where he will continue Mary-Ann's legacy.

As for the house, it was under agreement within a week of hitting the market. The buyer is allowing the current tenants to stay and will act as their landlord. I can't speak on Mary-Ann's behalf, but I could guess that this arrangement would make her smile knowing her old tenants still had a place to stay.

The house that sits on the corner of State Rd and Summit Ave appears empty-looking these days without its oversized Viking protecting it, but it will always contain the memories of the years that passed.

Life for the Viking will continue to live on, just in another state, and on another lawn. For now, Valhalla can wait.