Sam Cohodas Lodge

The Sam Cohodas Lodge is a rectangular two-story log building with a symmetrical front and asymmetrical rear design near Champion, Michigan. The structure contains a large two-story room and additional spaces arranged in a U-shaped layout.

The building was constructed between 1934 and 1935 by Finnish craftsmen under Nestor Kallioinen's direction. It received its National Register of Historic Places listing in 1991.

The lodge reflects the success of Sam Cohodas, a Polish immigrant who arrived around 1903 and built a major produce business in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The building shows through its design and materials the craftsmanship traditions of that era and region.

The site is today a Michigan State Historic Site and is best explored on foot to appreciate the woodwork and interior details. The location near Lake Michigamme provides a quiet setting for a visit.

The structure ranks among Michigan's largest log buildings built without an independent supporting framework, relying instead on the natural strength of local wood framing. This construction method represents a notable achievement in Finnish craftsmanship from that era.

Location: Michigan

GPS coordinates: 46.52583,-88.00417

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:27