Archaeologist Nicolay Nicolaysen began excavating the mound in 1879 and uncovered the Viking ship structure by April 1880. The excavation continued through June when workers revealed the full shape of the vessel.
The vessel measured 23.8 meters long and 5.2 meters wide when fully assembled. Dendrochronological studies confirm construction occurred between years 885 and 892 AD using oak wood.
Skeletal analysis reveals the buried man stood 181 to 183 centimeters tall and died around age forty following injuries sustained during battle. Historical tradition identified him as Olaf Geirstad-Alf, half-brother of Halfdan the Black.
Animal sacrifices included two peacocks, two goshawks, eight dogs, and twelve horses placed alongside weapons and tools. These items accompanied the main vessel into the afterlife along with a sleigh and three smaller boats.
Two years of restoration work prepared Kongshaugen for public opening in July 1929. The restored mound officially opened to visitors from across Norway on the 29th of July 1929.