Museum of South Ostrobothnia in Törnävä provides a comprehensive look into the history of South Ostrobothnia and Seinäjoki

Museum of South Ostrobothnia is located on the verdant grounds of Törnävä Manor. A merchant called Abraham Falander-Wasastjerna founded an iron works in the area towards the end of the 18th century. The Wasastjerna family later added a gunpowder factory and contributed to South Ostrobothnia’s agricultural development. The manor house was built in the early 19th century and now hosts official functions. The outbuildings are part of the museum.

The stone-built cowshed houses a permanent exhibition showcasing the history of South Ostrobothnia and Seinäjoki. The old dairy is now home to a natural history and geology exhibition. The renovated workers’ cottages contain a farm manager’s office, craftsmen’s workshops and a rural pharmacy.

The open-air exhibition area features peasant buildings from all over the region dating from the 17th to the 19th century. The most striking examples include a majestic two-storey farmhouse and an imposing windmill. There is also a village shop with an old-world feel.

Civil Guard and Lotta Svärd Museum in the centre of Seinäjoki showcases the work of the Civil Guard, the Lotta Svärd organisation and Jäger units

The Civil Guard and Lotta Svärd Museum is located in the heart of Seinäjoki. The museum is housed in buildings designed by architect Alvar Aalto in the 1920s to serve as the headquarters of the South Ostrobothnia Civil Guard and the home of Commander Matti Laurila. The buildings and grounds are recognised as a nationally significant cultural heritage site and protected under the Finnish Architectural Conservation Act.

The permanent exhibition in the main building explores the voluntary work and contribution of the Civil Guard, the Lotta Svärd organisation and Jäger units to Finland’s national defence. The display also features personal items of the Southern Ostrobothnia Civil Guard’s commander Matti Laurila.

A second exhibition on the ground floor showcases the work of local veterans’ organisations.

There is also an outbuilding with a permanent exhibition dedicated to the period in 1918 when Finland’s most famous military leader Mannerheim’s headquarters were stationed in Seinäjoki as well as a space for temporary exhibitions.