The final battle of the Cudgel War occurred on Santavuori Hill, a site that stood witness to a fierce clash between Finnish peasants and the Swedish crown's forces. The Cudgel War erupted primarily due to the oppressive taxation and governance imposed by Sweden on the Finnish population. Tensions built through the latter half of the 16th century, with local leaders rallying the common people against perceived injustices. The culmination of these resentments led to the formation of armed resistance groups. In the winter of 1597, confrontations reached their peak as rebels took a stand at Santavuori Hill.

On this cold February day, the landscape of Ilmajoki turned into a violent battleground. Peasants equipped with rudimentary weapons, predominantly cudgels, faced off against a more organized Swedish army. The battle was characterized by desperate fights, harsh winter conditions, and a struggle for the dignity of the Finnish populace. As news of the battle spread, it galvanized other regions to consider their stance against the Swedish rulers, greatly influencing local perceptions of authority and governance.

Despite the courage displayed by the Finnish insurgents, outcomes were dire, leading to the eventual suppression of the uprising. Many leaders and fighters were either captured or killed, marking a significant defeat for the local populace. However, the memory of the Cudgel War and its final battle lived on, symbolizing the ongoing struggle for Finnish self-determination and future resistance to foreign rule.