Meet Me in Winona

About the Book

In the late 1800s, the bright sun shining on upper Michigan’s Copper Country reflects all the way to Finland. It welcomes impoverished Finlander Matt Aho to a flourishing life in the small town of Winona. He makes his way to America before the turn of the century, eager to create a new home for his wife and children.

Years later, when Matt finally summons his family to join him, his daughter, Juliana, must leave behind the man she loves to take the long journey across the sea. For Juliana, her relationship with Frans Lammi defines and shapes her future, and she cannot imagine life without him. Being apart brings great pain to them both, but Frans resolves to join Juliana as soon as he possibly can.

When that great day comes, Juliana and Frans embrace their future together in this amazing country, marry, and start a family. Frans works in the copper mines, a difficult and deadly occupation, while Juliana keeps their home and gives birth to eight children. Throughout all the hardships and struggles, their deep love sustains them, creating a treasured legacy for their children.

A moving testament to the challenges faced by immigrants and filled with the history of upper Michigan, Meet Me in Winona is also a touching love story filled with hope and courage.

About the Author

I was born in 1949. The Copper Country was my home area for 16 years. I moved to the Detroit area after being married and remained in Michigan until I was 35. Prior to joining the Department of Corrections, I worked as an inventory control specialist. A restless need for change came upon me in my early thirties so I moved to the New England area. I lived New Hampshire for 17 years. My interests include jigsaw puzzles, reading and gardening. Learning new things has always been important to me and I have attended various classes, seminars and schools over the years. I am a Certified Public Supervisor among other titles and diplomas. The beginning of my life called me back to Michigan in 2001.