activities and experiences
Kauhava knife and textile museum, and the Iisakki Järvenpää House
The Kauhava Knife Museum showcases a knife exhibit detailing the origin, history and artisans of the Kauhava knife industry, and the different steps and equipment involved in creating knives. The museum knife collection consists of pieces from a variety of manufacturers, including rarities from times past.
The textiles section covers the history of weaving in Kauhava. Samples of weaved fabrics and embroidery are the core of the display. The button collection is a particular speciality.
Open during the main library´s opening hours. Guided tours of the museum are available on thursdays from 12 to 16 and by appointment.
The Iisakki Järvenpää Home Museum
The master knifesmith Iisakki Järvenpää (1859-1929) was a self-taught Kauhava knife maker, an exceptionally gifted artisan and a significant contributor to the Finnish knife industry. Iisakki Järvenpää and his cousin Juho Kustaa Lammi (1861–1901) are regarded as the creators of the traditional Kauhava knife design that is typical to the region. The building is located opposite the library and is open by appointment.