“Swedish Finns—A Fascinating and Stubborn Genealogical Anomaly”
by Kim Hongell Jacobs

What is a Swedish Finn? Learn about their origin story, how and where to find them, and how a tiny minority built an organization with 83 lodges in North America, including Chicago.

Kim is the executive director of The Swedish Finn Historical Society headquartered in Seattle, Washington. She grew up in the Swede Finn settlement of Coos Bay, Oregon and both sides of her family roots reside in Karleby, Finland. She considers herself to be expert level at comforting former Swedes when they receive Finnish DNA results.

Cost is free for Swedish American Genealogical Society members; $10 for non-members to participate. Reservations appreciated and can be made via email to genealogy@samac.org or by calling the Museum at 773.728.8111. Non-members can use the button below.