Serving the Canterbury, Connecticut community and beyond, the Finnish American Heritage Society, Inc. is a non-profit, non-partisan heritage organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating Finnish-American traditions, customs, and cultural heritage since its founding in 1987. The Society's mission centers on encouraging members and community members in learning about, collecting, and enjoying the rich history of Finnish contributions to American life, both past and present, while promoting greater awareness of Finnish influences on world culture. Built on decades of community dedication—with roots tracing back to the original Finnish Hall established in 1925—the organization has evolved from the Sampo Club into a vital cultural institution that safeguards one of the country's most significant collections of Finnish-American records, books, and artifacts. The Heritage Center, developed through successful community fundraising campaigns, now serves as an operational archive and research facility where visitors can explore the immigrant experience and cultural legacy. Beyond preservation, the Finnish American Heritage Society actively engages the Canterbury community through cultural events, educational presentations, member clubs, and theatrical productions that celebrate Finnish heritage. The organization also honors service through its national monument to Finnish-American World War II veterans and supports local youth through scholarship opportunities. With its historic hall listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Society represents a living bridge between past traditions and present community connections, inviting all to participate in learning about and celebrating Finnish-American culture.
Canterbury, CT