Our story.

Finlandia Beach Club

Est. 1908

Originally established in 1908 as the "Kehitys" or Finnish Worker’s Society, this organization served as a platform for sharing cultural interests and assisting Finnish immigrants in assimilating into American society. Its primary objectives were to facilitate language learning, coordinate club activities, and promote integration. Over the years, the club has been renowned for its vibrant choral singing, engaging bingo sessions, captivating plays, and charitable endeavors, all of which were organized through regular meetings.

In a July 1983 article published in the Pine Knot Journal, it was revealed that the first "Finn Hall" was constructed in 1909 at the intersection of 12th Street and Avenue F in Cloquet. Swiftly establishing itself as the hub of Finnish entertainment and social gatherings, it became a focal point for Finnish activities in the region.

As the 1920s unfolded, the club matured and adapted to the rapidly changing American way of life. Alongside their cultural programs, they incorporated social issues such as prohibition, labor movements, and women's rights into their activities. Remarkably, the club's original temperance bylaw, addressing alcohol abstinence, remains in effect to this day, though is not strictly enforced.

During the 1930s, the younger generation's participation in social events surged, reflecting their desire to engage actively with their peers. Concurrently, the cooperative store identified the need for expansion, reigniting the search for new facilities for the Finnish Cultural Club. In 1934, the club recognized the need for a new home, so the club purchased 20 acres of land on the west side of Little Grand Lake, leading to the birth of Finlandia Beach Club.

During its early years, the club focused on business ventures and the establishment of a cooperative store at 14th Street and Avenue F in 1909. Unfortunately, the fire of 1918 devastated their original clubhouse. In response, a two-story building was constructed adjacent to the cooperative store, providing additional space to accommodate the growing membership, comprised mainly of second-generation Finns.

Each year, the club celebrated a summer festival reminiscent of traditional Finnish customs at Pinehurst Park. This event featured athletic competitions, bonfires, guest speakers, and lively dancing. Club members were actively involved in assisting fellow members in finding employment opportunities and providing support for the sick and those in need.

Within a few years, club members constructed a lodge with kitchen facilities, a meeting area with benches, two wood-burning saunas, a boat launch, a swimming beach, and three cabins available for members to rent. While some areas were deliberately left undeveloped to preserve the natural beauty of the surroundings, the majority of Finlandia Beach Club has remained largely unaltered.

The club continues to organize periodic fundraisers open to the public, including Sunday dinners throughout the summer months, featuring delectable meatballs, ham, or pork. Additionally, it hosts various family-oriented activities during the summer months, making it an ideal destination for families to spend quality time together.

Today, Finlandia Beach Club continues it’s heritage as a vibrant community rooted in Finnish culture and surrounded by natural beauty. Our facilities include a lodge, wood burning saunas, and three cabins, providing members with opportunities for relaxation, connection, and celebration.

At the heart of our club is a strong sense of community, where lifelong friendships are forged, and shared traditions are celebrated. From our summer dinners to our regular cultural events, there's always something happening at Finlandia Beach Club.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to upholding our traditions while embracing new opportunities for growth and enrichment. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a lively social hub, Finlandia Beach Club welcomes you to join us by the lake and experience the warmth of our community firsthand.

"I still hold dear memories of visiting the club with my grandmother during my childhood," reminisced a member, reflecting on the cherished experiences shared at Finlandia.