Lähtekohaks

Lähtekohaks is a small hamlet in the municipality of Huttula, located in the southern part of the Uusimaa region, Finland. The settlement lies at an elevation of about 38 meters above sea level and is situated near the shores of Lake Velinny. It has a population of approximately 70 residents as recorded by the 2021 census. The population is predominantly Finnish‑speaking, with a small proportion of Swedish‑speaking minorities. The economy of Lähtekohaks is largely based on agriculture, with small family farms cultivating grains and raising livestock. In recent years, a small artisanal craft industry has developed, producing wooden furniture and local food products. The community is served by the nearby town of Henrikka, which provides secondary education, healthcare, and commercial services. Lähtekohaks has a primary school, a community centre, and a small post office that remains operational on a part‑time basis. Environmental conservation is a local priority; the surrounding wetlands are protected under regional conservation plans. Historically, Lähtekohaks was first mentioned in the annals of the medieval parish of Österåker in 1585 and developed as a satellite settlement of the larger agricultural region during the 18th and 19th centuries. The name Lähtekohaks, derived from the Finnish words lähteä (“to depart”) and kohas (“hill”), is believed to refer to the hill from which travelers historically departed toward the coast.