CHASSELL TOWNSHIP TIMELINE
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Walk through the early history of Chassell Township and Portage Entry. You will learn how and why the town was founded and meet some interesting citizens along the way. See what late 19th century and early 20th century buildings are still with us.
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THE EARLY SETTLERS
French-Canadian and Finnish immigrants were the early settlers in the Chassell area. Learn about the Courchaine and Makinen families and their desire for a new life in a new land.
EXHIBITS
LUMBER KINGS TO STRAWBERRY KINGS
Learn about Chassell’s transition from a lumber town to a strawberry growing community, the founding of the Chassell Lion’s Club, and our annual strawberry festival.
FRENCH-CANADIANS
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French-Canadian immigrants came to Chassell to start a new life in order to provide for their families. Discover their story of early habitation along the Sturgeon River and their many contributions to our community.
FINNISH FAMILIES
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Our Finnish exhibit features the dramatic stories of two families’ journeys to America. Upon their arrival, they set about making their living by mining, farming, and fishing.
THE OLD SCHOOL
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One of our most popular displays is our schoolroom exhibit. Past graduates and Chassell families love to view the class photographs. Many reminisce about their school days and relive the basketball team’s glory years in the 1950’s.
THE FRIENDS OF FASHION
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Enjoy an entire exhibit room filled with lovely vintage fashions and accessories. The group manages the largest such collection in the area. They also give yearly historical presentations that feature live models in authentic vintage attire.
FARMING
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WILMER SAVELA
​Enjoy our exhibit featuring the life of Wilmer Savela, a long-time resident of Chassell and beloved teacher.
He created a series of wood-carvings during his life time. Those carvings have become regional collector's items.