According to an interview with the cultural magazine Ievas Stāsti, Julgī Stalte reflects on the legacy of her mother, famed folklorist Helmī Stalte, and the survival of the Livonian spirit through the folk group Skandinieki.
Reflecting on Helmī Stalte’s Life and Cultural Legacy
According to her daughter Julgī Stalte, speaking to Ievas Stāsti, Helmī was glad she could share her stories with both grandchildren and researchers, having recorded two interviews for the Folklore Archives regarding the folk movement.
The family group Skandinieki accomplished massive cultural work over the decades. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Helmī observed the world through the household’s goats and life at their home in Košrags, maintaining a cheerful perspective. However, Julgī notes that her mother later expressed frustration at how easily people fell back into daily routines, consumed Russian propaganda, and succumbed to conspiracy theories.
Did you know? Helmī Stalte recorded two dedicated interviews with the Folklore Archives to document the history and expansion of traditional folk movements in the region.
Coping with Social Divisions and Final Days
According to Julgī Stalte’s interview in Ievas Stāsti, Helmī experienced deep distress over societal gullibility. She remarked that the prevalence of compromised trust felt identical to the Soviet era, when every second person nearby felt like a potential traitor.
The final year brought a mix of family gatherings, renewed ties with cousins, and the realization of her status as a great-grandmother, as Raigo’s daughter Zane has four children. Yet, Julgī observed that Helmī increasingly lived mentally in another realm, communicating internally with those on the other side and preparing for her transition.
A Traditional Farewell in Old Riga
Mourners arrived wearing traditional folk costumes, accompanied by traditional singing during a march through Old Riga.
«It was nice that we could say goodbye to mom the way she would have wanted, and briefly remind people about this fantastic cultural movement,» Julgī Stalte told Ievas Stāsti.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Helmī Stalte?
Helmī Stalte was a renowned Latvian folklorist and a central figure in preserving and promoting Livonian cultural heritage through the folk group Skandinieki.
What is the cultural significance of Skandinieki?
Skandinieki is a prominent folk ensemble that played a massive role in the revival and documentation of traditional folklore and folk art traditions in the region.
How did the family honor Helmī Stalte at her funeral?
Mourners wore traditional folk costumes, sang traditional songs, and participated in a commemorative procession through Old Riga.
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