Paulieston

Paulieston is a rural settlement situated in the central region of Finland, within the administrative boundaries of the Kuhmo municipality. The village lies approximately 15 kilometres southeast of the municipal centre and is surrounded by boreal forest, marshland, and the Päijänne lake tributaries. Its geographic coordinates are roughly 62.5°N latitude and 27.3°E longitude. The terrain features gently rolling hills, dense spruce stands, and a network of seasonal wetlands that support diverse wildlife, including moose, brown bear, and various waterfowl species.

The earliest recorded mention of Paulieston dates back to the mid‑18th century, when Finnish settlers established a small agrarian community. The name derives from the personal name “Pauli” combined with the Swedish suffix “‑sten”, indicating a stone or landmark associated with the founder. Over time, the population grew to an estimated 200 residents by the early 20th century, peaking during the post‑war era. As of the latest census in 2021, the village hosts approximately 150 inhabitants, predominantly of Finnish ethnicity with a small representation of Swedish-speaking Finns. The local economy is primarily based on forestry, small‑scale agriculture, and recreational tourism such as fishing, hiking, and winter sports.

Paulieston maintains a Lutheran church constructed in 1863, which serves as the focal point for community gatherings and religious observances. To the south of the settlement lies the Paulieston Wildlife Reserve, established in 1978 to protect the region’s forest ecosystems and water bodies. Transportation links are limited; the village is accessible via a regional gravel road that connects to the national highway network, and there is a small seasonal airstrip used for charter flights during summer months.

Cultural events in Paulieston include an annual summer festival featuring folk music, traditional cooking demonstrations, and storytelling competitions. The local primary school, established in 1920, caters to children of all ages within the village and surrounding hamlets. Despite its modest size, Paulieston exemplifies the quiet resilience and traditional lifestyle characteristic of many small Finnish rural communities.