88-Year-Old Remembers Life in Setomaa

Why this is here: Einu’s family buried two chests filled with clothing and smoked pork during wartime, later finding them untouched when they returned home.

Einu Mäepalo, 88, recounts her life growing up in Meremäe, Setomaa, Estonia, near the Russian border. Born in 1937, she remembers German and Soviet soldiers passing through during World War II, prompting her family to seek refuge in the forests. They protected their horses and livestock, vital for survival, burying valuables for safekeeping.

After the war, Einu’s family offered food and shelter to displaced people—"kotipoisid"—and those fleeing Soviet persecution. She recalls a strong sense of community where no one was turned away empty-handed. Einu later trained as a mechanic in Viljandi, worked as a driver, and raised a family.

Her husband passed away recently, but Einu is surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her sister, Anni, also remains close, and the two share childhood memories of family support, like the brothers saving money for Anni’s dress.

Einu continues to live on the land, tending to her bees and offering advice to younger generations. The work of remembering, and of family, continues.