Suomussalmi Museum of Local History

The Suomussalmi Museum of Local History has been operating at its current location since 1967.

The museum aims to foster the spirit of local history and pass on traditional knowledge. The museum's rich collection of artefacts and the large yard reflect the past life of 19th- and 20th-century Kainuu.

As society changed during the 20th century, the traditional ways of the countryside and the utensils that had been used in the past began to be forgotten.

In the 1950s, teachers of Suomussalmi started to gather various artefacts, for example for schools. The museum's collection was also increased by a public collection organised by the local history research committee of the North Karelia District.

Later on, the museum's collection has been accumulated through donations from individuals. Almost a thousand catalogued objects are already in the museum's collection.

The decision to establish a museum of local history was taken by the Municipal Council in September 1965 and the Museum Committee was set up to plan the museum's activities. The Suomussalmi parish donated the tip of the peninsula Kirkkoniemi for the museum's use and funds for the costs of setting up the museum. The museum was opened to the public on 12 October 1967 in connection with the 100th anniversary of the municipality. In addition to the museum area, Kirkkoniemi also contains the ruins of the old church of Suomussalmi and a memorial to those who fell in the Civil War.

The museum is maintained by the Suomussalmi municipality.

Opening times

Open:

Open in summer 2023 from 20.6.2023 to 13.8.2023.

Summer: Tuesday - Sunday 10-18, closed on Mondays.

14.8.-1.11. open to groups by appointment.

Open only in snow-free periods.

50 € / guided tour

Events will be announced separately.

Price:

The museum's staff is skilled and knowledgeable with numerous stories about the objects and buildings.

It is possible to have a personal tour of the museum area (50€).

On request, this service is included in the entrance fee.

To ensure good customer service, the museum requests that larger groups (over 10 people) notify their arrival in advance of.