Watch Pelkie: 100 Years of Finnishness in Michigan's North Woods 35c5m

2019
1 Season

Pelkie: 100 Years of Finnishness in Michigan's North Woods is a documentary film produced by Up North Films. The film explores the history and cultural heritage of the Finnish community in Pelkie, Michigan. The documentary is a love letter to Finnish culture in America, weaving together interviews with local residents, historical footage, and stunning scenery. 1b1x1d

The film follows Rudy Tahtinen as he reflects on the Finnish heritage that has been ed down through his family for generations. Rudy serves as the storyteller for the film, leading viewers through the history of the Finnish community in Pelkie. Alongside Rudy is Rueben Turunen, another resident of Pelkie who provides insight into the history and culture of the Finnish community.

The film is divided into chapters, with each focusing on a different aspect of Finnish culture. The chapters include a look at the Finnish language, the traditional Finnish sauna, the music of the Finnish people, and Finnish cuisine. Throughout each chapter, the viewer gains a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of each topic and how it has been ed down through the generations.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the film is the exploration of the Finnish language. The film highlights the unique nature of the language, which is distinct from any other in the world. Historically, the Finnish language was suppressed in America, but the Finnish community in Pelkie managed to keep the language alive through the years. The film provides examples of the language being spoken and offers insight into its unique linguistic features.

Another highlight of the film is the focus on the traditional Finnish sauna. The sauna is an integral part of Finnish culture, and the filmmakers go to great lengths to illustrate its importance. The film provides a glimpse into the mechanics of the sauna, how it is built, and how it is used. Rudy and Rueben share stories of their experiences using the sauna and discuss the social and cultural significance of the tradition.

The film also explores the role of music in Finnish culture. The filmmakers showcase the music of local Finnish bands and provide insight into the cultural significance of different types of Finnish music. There are examples of traditional Finnish folk songs, as well as more modern Finnish music.

Finally, the film takes a look at Finnish cuisine. The filmmakers showcase traditional Finnish foods and the methods by which they are prepared. Rudy and Rueben prepare and cook traditional Finnish dishes, providing insight into the unique ingredients and flavors that make Finnish cuisine so special.

Throughout the film, the cultural pride and heritage of the Finnish community in Pelkie shine through. The documentary does an excellent job of capturing the strong sense of community that is at the heart of Finnish culture. The film is a heartfelt tribute to the Finnish people in America, and it provides insight into the cultural traditions that have been ed down through generations.

In conclusion, Pelkie: 100 Years of Finnishness in Michigan's North Woods is a must-watch documentary for anyone interested in Finnish culture, history, or heritage. The film is a heartfelt tribute to the Finnish community in Pelkie and provides a wealth of insight into the unique aspects of Finnish culture. The film is beautifully shot, with stunning imagery of the Michigan scenery and the people who call it home. Watching this documentary is like taking a journey through time and space, and it is a journey that is well worth taking.

Pelkie: 100 Years of Finnishness in Michigan's North Woods is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between June 1, 2019 and on Up North Films

Filter by Source

Rent or Buy

Amazon

Do you have The Disney Bundle?

What are you waiting for?

Nice! Browse The Disney Bundle with Yidio.

Ad Info

Seasons

3. Part 3 - A Fairwell to Dairy Farming

June 1, 2019

The children and grandchildren of the Finnish immigrants move away to go to school and many found work in Detroit. They married non-Finns outside of the community and many didn't come back. Finnish culture deteriorated in Pelkie. At the same time milk prices dropped and big box stores outside of Pelkie outcompeted the Co-op. Mennonites and strangers moved in while a couple Finns remained.

2. Part 2 - Third Generation: Cows, Kids and Barns

July 1, 2019

Second and third generation Finns worked on the farms as kids, which instilled in them a good worth ethic and good values. They had freedom to run and play, and there was a strong culture of visiting and sauna among neighbors. Kids initially spoke Finnish in their one-room schools. As the second and third generation grew up they began to leave the area to find work and education.

1. Part 1 - From Copper Miners to Lumberjacks to Farmers

June 1, 2019

The sturgeon river had been depositing rich soil in the Pelkie area for eons in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Lumberjacks and farmers cleared the land to make way for farms and the railroad connected them to the world. Mutual helping traditions led to a farmer's co-op, Finnish Lutheran churches sprang up and even a socialist hall was built. It was a thriving dairy farming community.

Description

Where to Watch Pelkie: 100 Years of Finnishness in Michigan's North Woods

Pelkie: 100 Years of Finnishness in Michigan's North Woods is available for streaming on the Up North Films website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Pelkie: 100 Years of Finnishness in Michigan's North Woods on demand at Amazon, Tubi TV and Plex.