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One of North America’s largest collections of Finnish war materials, memorabilia and artifacts will be open for public viewing through the rest of the summer.
The Price of Freedom Museum is located on the sixth floor of Finlandia University’s Jutila Center in Hancock.
The museum is part of the archival collection of the Finlandia University Finnish American Heritage Center and Historical Archive. Since its founding in the 1930s, the Archive has preserved and promoted items that help tell the stories of the Finnish immigrant experience in North America.
While Finnish culture dates back many centuries, the nation itself did not become fully independent until 1917. Through the 18th century, the region was mostly dominated by the Swedish empire. In the early 19th century, it was ceded to Russia.
Even after independence, conflicts with the Soviet Union continued through the 20th century, notably during World War Two. After the war, Finland remained officially neutral, until Russia’s recent aggression in Ukraine prompted an application to join NATO.
The Price of Freedom collection will be open Tuesdays 1 to 3 p.m., Wednesdays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Thursdays 1 to 3 p.m., through September 1. There is no admission charge, although donations are appreciated.
