Dating back over one hundred years, Kaleva was named for the Finnish national epic - the Kalevala. In 1900, Finnish immigrants were encouraged to purchase land and create a community by the Michigan Land Society. Here they found many struggles. Amid those were infertile land and a lack of money. Their determination and strong Christian beliefs lead them to success.

A thriving community today with many businesses, including a post office, bank, library, art gallery, telephone company and various other, this small town is still embracing it's Finnish heritage. The Finnish street names like Wuoksi, Kauko and Louhi are powerful reminders of the past struggles and ultimate triumphs.

 

Along with many other nationalities, descendants of the original Finnish immigrants still call Kaleva home. Be sure to visit the Kaleva Bottle House Museum, made from soft drink bottles in the 1940's (featured by Ripley's Believe It or Not), and the Depot Railroad Museum. Whether you'd like to ride 125 miles of registered, marked and groomed snowmobile trails in the very heart of Manistee County's snowmobile country or view summertime drag races, Kaleva is worth the short drive. A truly worthwhile place to visit!

 

Just a ways off the beaten track, Kaleva is located east on Nine Mile Road, off US 31.

Kaleva Must See & Do

• The Kaleva Grasshopper
• The Bottle House Museum
• The Kaleva Train Depot Museum
• Kaleva Heritage Days - August 22-23, 2009 

 

Village of Kaleva
231-362-3366
9219 Aura Street, POB 45, Kaleva MI
Clerk: Robin Holtz

Maple Grove Township Hall
9213 Aura Street
231-362-3825
Clerk: Catherine Larsen - 231-362-3825

www.kalevami.com

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