The Tirkkonen Trading House and Its Legacy

A photographic exhibition exploring the remarkable story of the Tirkkonen trading house and the family behind it.

Founded in 1869 as a rural peddling business, the company grew into one of Finland’s leading fashion and textile wholesalers, leaving a lasting mark on Tampere’s commercial life, cityscape, and consumer culture.

Produced by the Vapriikki Photo Archives, this mini-exhibition follows the growth of the business built by Juhana and Maria Tirkkonen and highlights Maria Tirkkonen’s role as one of the most prominent businesswomen of her time. It also sheds light on the history of the Tirkkonen House, a landmark of Tampere’s architectural heritage.

The Tirkkonen Trading House and Its Legacy mini-exhibition will be on display in the conference hallway on the 2nd floor of Vapriikki from October 6, 2026, to May 30, 2027.

Johannes Pahlman/ Vapriikki Photo Archives