John Morton: America's Finnish Founding Father
Fri, Nov 13
|Nordia House
As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, discover the story of John Morton, America's Finnish Founding Father, whose decisive vote helped secure American independence in 1776.


Time & Location
Nov 13, 2026, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Nordia House, 8800 SW Oleson Rd, Portland, OR 97223, USA
About
As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, discover the story of John Morton, America's Finnish Founding Father, whose decisive vote helped secure American independence in 1776. As the nation celebrates its Semiquincentennial, this presentation offers a unique opportunity to rediscover the Finnish contribution to the nation's founding. Join Finlandia Foundation National Lecturer of the Year John E. Smith III, “Jay,” for a fascinating journey tracing Morton's family from the Forest Finns of Värmland and the colony of New Sweden to the halls of Independence Hall in Philadelphia. Learn how Morton's Finnish heritage, his upbringing among the descendants of New Sweden, and his lifelong commitment to public service shaped the principles that guided him during one of the most consequential moments in American history.
This event is in partnership with The Finlandia Columbia-Pacific Chapter
TICKETS
General Admission: $25
Member Admission : $21
Student Admission: $22 (Must present valid high school or college student ID)
Arts for All: $5 (Must present valid Oregon Trail EBT card)
Please note: all sales are final

