Join us November 2–7 as we celebrate 35 years of books, community, and Finnish-American heritage!
Our story began as The Museum Shop at the Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, owned and operated by Patricia and Peter Van Pelt. In the spring of 1995, they announced the closure of the Museum Shop with the exciting news of a new location and a new, significant name:
“The Keweenaw sidewheeler has sailed back into history. But the north wind has blown us across the harbor, to open North Wind Books on the Marina Road.”
For four more years, North Wind Books welcomed visitors to Eagle Harbor before making another exciting move. In the fall of 1999, Patricia and Peter shared the news:
“Great News! North Wind Books is moving to Suomi College in Hancock! We are thrilled that the business will continue on a year-round basis, in a central location, and with the same mission of service to the community.”
North Wind Books continued under the ownership of Finlandia University until 2023, when the university announced its closure. Today, North Wind Books is owned and operated by Finlandia Foundation National, with proceeds supporting the Finnish American Heritage Center.
Through every chapter, our mission of serving the community has remained, and the legacy Patricia and Peter Van Pelt began continues today.
Join us Monday, November 2–Saturday, November 7, for anniversary specials in-store and online! Stop by to register for some great prizes as we celebrate this special milestone.
Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to the next chapter!