Accidental Tourist

Carolus Linnaeus

by Mickey Jou

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Felicem diem natalem! For all you Spanish majors, that's "Happy Birthday" in Latin. Carolus Linnaeus, the Swedish scientist who gave everything (himself included) a Latin name, is turning the big 3-0-0 this year. To celebrate, the American Swedish Historical Museum is hosting an evening with Linnaeus — as re-enacted by Hans Odöö, replete with wig and 18th-century costume. Odöö, the Swedish nature writer/photographer who's played Linnaeus for 30 years and is currently touring in Europe, shares some dirt on the father of modern biology: "As Linnaeus, I am quite proud that I wrote 72 books. I sometimes wrote my own reviews under a false name," writes Odöö. "In one such review, Linnaeus congratulated the author — himself!" Let's hope that none of the area colleges get wind of that.

The Swedish Connection: When asked what's most impressive about Philly, Odöö writes, "Its historical significance. And that Peter Forsberg has played ice hockey here."

Our Fine Cuisine: "Linnaeus enjoyed food that a farmer's wife would cook for him as much as he enjoyed being a guest of the king and queen," says Odöö. "If he was invited to a Stephen Starr restaurant, he would enjoy it, but the next day, you could very well find him at the Reading Market."

Latin Renaming: When asked what Philly's Latin name would be, Odöö responds, "Philadelphia helioscopia; 'Philadelphia that looks at the sun.' The sun gives life and energy to all living beings and it seems that Philadelphia is full of life and energy."

Sat., March 31, 5:30-7:30 p.m., $20, American Swedish Historical Museum, 1900 Pattison Ave., 215-389-1776, www.americanswedish.org