Kavela Hall is home to Finnish immigrants on the Iron Range, now it needs repairs

VIRGINIA, Minn. (Northern News Now) - A gathering hall made for immigrants on the Iron Range still stands as a landmark for the Finnish community in Virginia, Minn. Now they’re asking for help to keep the memories alive.

Kaleva Hall has stood in the Finntown area of Virginia for decades, transitioning from a temperance society to the cultural building it is today.

Ladies’ member Janet Eichholz said that historical value is incredibly important.

“This town deserves the history that this building leaves as part of the neighborhood, part of the city, part of the whole Iron Range,” Eichholz said.

The oldest member of the Kaleva group, Eila Ibonen, said young Finnish immigrants came to the area to work in the mines and lumber industry, but they stayed for the community.

“In a way, I think