As part of America’s Semiquincentennial, the Finnish Center will host this special presentation by John (Jay) E. Smith III, public historian and archivist. The lecture will take place on June 14 (Sunday), 2 p.m. at the Finnish Center. Smith is the Finlandia Foundation National Lecturer of the Year 2026.

Smith will highlight John Morton’s Finnish and Swedish heritage, and his emigration from what was then Sweden to the colony of New Sweden (along Delaware River) in the mid 17th century — all of which informed his worldview, and his importance and influence in the politics and culture of the time.

Open to the public. No admission fee, but donations are appreciated. Refreshments will be served.

This event is supported by Finlandia Foundation National.