The serene location of the Wirtanen Farm was thehomestead of the Finnish bachelor, Eli Wirtanen. He filed for a homestad on the land in 1904 and supplemented his farm income by logging during the winters. Eli had chickens and raised a pig; at one time he owned a team of horses but usually kept only one. He sold the hay he raised in his fields. Today this farm stands in proud tribute to the area's early settlers and is maintaines by the Friends of the Wirtanen Pioneer Farm.
The most unique building on the farm is the Finnish style sauna. The firebox is covered with stones without a chimney. The smoke holes were opened after the fire died out to release the smoke. The result was a smoky odor when water was poured over the rocks. A dressing room was provided and a kerosene lamp was used to light both rooms.
The farm is open year round but it is not plowed in the winter. Admission is FREE.
The photos: The Wirtanen Farm, the Walkie Talkies at the Farm (we have hidden a geocache there), and Laurie. Laurie is on the Board of the Friends of the Wirtanen Farm and also serves as the treasurer. She is wearing a Scandinavian outfit in the photo which was taken at one of our Solstice parties.
Check out the link for the Wirtanen Farm on the right.
