History & Design:

The Finnish Cultural Garden celebrates the language, folklore and spirit of the Finnish people. A granite plaque includes a quote from Aleksis Kivi, who wrote the first novel in the Finnish language, in 1870: “A strong will carries a man even through gray granite.”

The garden also features busts of the renowned composer Jean Sibelius; Elias Lonnrot, doctor and author of the epic poem, “Kalevala;” Johan Vilhelm Snellman, statesman; and Johan Ludvig Runeberg, national poet and author of the Finnish national anthem.

Volunteers from the Finnish Heritage Museum and others organize and maintain this garden throughout the year.

Additional Information:

2017 was the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Finland. We were proud to celebrate in the Finnish Cultural Garden. Help us celebrate in the future by participating in our fund raising efforts visiting the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. Tax deductible donations in any amount may be sent to:

Finnish Heritage Museum
P.O. Box 1121
Fairport Harbor, OH 44077

*write “Garden” on the memo line