Cokato Finnish American Historical Society

In 1938, the descendants of the Finnish settlement in Delaware celebrated their 300th annicersary.  the local Finns of the Cokato area also planned a gala celcbration, held on Sunday June 12, 1938.  This interest in their heritage led to the formation of the Temperance Community Association.  

 

The first officers of the corporation were Pres William E Onkka, VP Harry Nelson, Sec/Treas Vernon Barberg.  The first meetin was held May 11, 1939.  On Nov 28, 1939 the Cokato Finnish American Historical Society was ratified.  It wasn't until June 21, 1973 the Articles of Incorporators were Mamie Keskey, Esther Hasti, Lillian Barberg, and Vernon Barberg.

 

In 1939, the society indicated it was beginning to work "to gather historical material and articles used by the early Finns in this community."  The objective of the organization was to preserve the traditions and customs of the Finnish pioneers.