The Burgher's House Museum: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Helsinki Life

The Burgher's House Museum, also known as Ruiskumestarin talo, offers a captivating glimpse into the life of a middle-class family in Helsinki during the 1860s and 70s. Completed in 1816, it is the oldest wooden house still standing in its original location in the city center. The museum is located in the Kruununhaka district. The house is decorated to represent the home of Alexander Wickholm, a fire station officer, who purchased the house in 1859. The furnishings reflect the family's aspirations to live in a respectable manner, befitting their social status. While not wealthy, the Wickholms furnished their home with a mix of inherited, second-hand, and contemporary pieces. Visitors can explore the various rooms, each offering a unique perspective on 19th-century life. The hall features elegant Biedermeier-style furniture, while the kitchen displays practical items like rye bread and a butter churn. The yard building contains exhibits on the conservation of the Burgher's House and on housekeeping and children's life in the 19th century. The walls have been restored to their 19th-century appearance, showcasing different surface treatments and wallpapers. The original belongings of the Wickholm family were sold at auction long ago. The current decor is based on the estate inventory, with items carefully selected from the Helsinki City Museum's collections to reflect the era and social group. The Burgher's House Museum provides a tangible connection to Helsinki's past, offering visitors a chance to experience the everyday life of its citizens in the 19th century.