Kreeta Haapasalo statue

Kreetanpuisto Kappelintie 22 Kaustinen

(Explore the Wirkkala artist path)

 

The folk musician Kreeta Haapasalo (1813–1893) from Kaustinen began to travel around Southern Finland, reaching even St Petersburg and Stockholm. On her tours, she delighted people at different occasions with her songs and kantele playing.

 

She became a legend, and many of her songs are still played today. The devotedly beautiful “Mun kanteleeni kauniimmin” (My kantele will sound more beautiful) is one of her most popular songs.

 

Ilmari Wirkkala was interested in the life of Kreeta and her husband Joonas. He wrote a presentation and play about their life.

 

The idea of a statue emerged in Kaustinen after World War II. Kreeta’s statue, designed by Ilmari and sculpted by his youngest son Tauno, was inaugurated in 1954.

 


Stories

 

The story of Kreeta Haapasalo has impressed numerous people over the years, especially in the Perhonjokilaakso river valley. The family led a life that was in many ways unsettled. Her husband Joonas did not quite seem to find a proper place to live, and due to all kind of shortages, Kreeta had to go and perform as far away as St Petersburg and Stockholm. She was encouraged and supported by figures such as Sakari (Zachris) Topelius, J.L. Runeberg and the vicar of Veteli A.I. Ingman.

 

Kreeta’s simple, beautiful melodies have been preserved to our day, and many top artists have performed them. “Kreetan joululaulu” (Kreeta’s Christmas song) is particularly popular in Kaustinen. “Mun kanteleeni kauniimmin” is often performed at funeral and commemoration services.

 


Photos

 

Kreeta Haapasalo (1813–1893)

 

Young Kreeta on a postcard (drawing by Ilmari Wirkkala)

 

Kreeta´s statue

 


Music

 

Mun kanteleeni kauniimmin (kantele: Helli Syrjäniemi)

 


Map