EDITOR’S NOTE: Superiorland Yesterdays is prepared by the reference staff at the Peter White Public Library in Marquette.

30 years ago

HOUGHTON — A project conceived by the Finnish North American Literature Society is making it possible for students here and throughout the United States to learn more about Finnish culture. The program, Read the Kalevala Project, was initiated by the society about two years ago as a gesture of friendship to the U.S. commemorating 75 years of Finnish independence and to recognize the thousands of Finns who immigrated to this country. The Kalevala is the national epic poem of Finland and has become an important part of Finnish heritage.

Marcelaine Ravano, an instructor at Jeffers High School, said she was a teacher in the Houghton-Portage Township district last year, she taught the epic to 12th graders in a unit that she designed about Heroes, local legends, and myths.

“The kids loved it and much fuss was made over the books themselves because of the extraordinary artwork.”

60 years ago

HOUGHTON — The famous author, William L. Shirer, whose best-selling novel, “Rise and Fall of the Third Reich,” is leading bestseller lists, will speak at Michigan Tech on Thursday, March 9. The public is invited to hear Shirer, whose background as and American Foreign Correspondent, radio commentator and author makes him well qualified to speak on “Prospects for Permanent Peace.” Shirer will speak at 8:15 p.m. in the ballroom of the Michigan Tech Memorial Union. This is a feature of the concert-lecture series sponsored by Michigan Tech and Suomi College for the benefit of the college and community. Tickets will be available at the door.