50 Years, 50 Legacies: Lydia Kotiranda Torry
#6: Lydia Kotiranda Torry
Photo Credit: Minnesota Star Tribune
She left her home in Finland forever, traveling across the Atlantic with only her brother. Arriving in America in the mid-1920s, Lydia Kotiranda would soon marry Emil Torry, a Finnish sailor-turned-commercial fisherman. Together, they built a life on the northern waters now protected within Voyageurs National Park, calling Kubel Island on Namakan Lake their home.
Their life was rustic, shaped by the rhythms of the lake and reminiscent of the old world they had left behind. For 26 years, they fished, gardened, and weathered the seasons together. But one morning, Emil set out for a routine trip to Gappa’s Landing to sell his catch to “fish king” Dan McCarthy – and never returned. Five weeks later, his body washed ashore.
Alone but unshaken, Lydia remained on the island for more than two decades, living a solitary yet deeply connected existence. The familiar trees, rocks, and wildlife became her companions, while memories, music, books, pets, and needlecraft sustained her spirit. She had never attended school and arrived in America speaking only Finnish, yet she taught herself to read English using National Geographic magazines and learned to play a cherished old organ and a rustic hand-harp crafted by Emil. Remnants of her bountiful gardens still bloom on Kubel Island today.
Lydia Torry’s story is one of resilience, independence, and the enduring connection between people and place. Her life is a lasting piece of the rich history that echoes across the waters of Voyageurs National Park.
Check out the full list of our 50 legacies!
This year, we’re celebrating 50 years of Voyageurs National Park by sharing 50 inspiring stories of the people who shaped its legacy—from the visionaries who established the park to those protecting its beauty today. Raise a canteen and celebrate this historic milestone with us at our 50th anniversary website. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more inspiring stories and updates!
