This year, Estonia celebrates its 105th anniversary, and in honor of this occasion, Setomaa Museums are organizing a 1930s-style party at Kindral Reegi House on February 25th. The evening promises to be filled with swing music, an auction, Lilleflirt, card games for gentlemen, a display of weapons, and a boudoir for the ladies.
During the time when the Northern Camp operated in Värska, most parties were held outdoors in the summer. There are many charming photos from those past parties, where local village youth joined the soldier boys. However, there are only a few pictures from indoor parties. Nevertheless, there is evidence that at the „Camp Home,“ as the officers‘ casino was called, there were formal dinners during visits by the head of state, as well as parties and even masquerades at other times. On February 25, 2023, we will recreate the atmosphere of the Northern Camp’s founder, Lieutenant General Reeg, in the 1930s at his house. We will transport ourselves back to the early days of the young Estonian Republic, where flowing dresses, nobility, and wearing the country’s uniform were a matter of pride.
Mall Hadje, the program manager of Setomaa Museums, says, „Guests are invited to General Nikolai Reeg’s house for the Estonian Republic’s anniversary party in the parade uniforms of the time and in formal suits and evening gowns. Henrik Guthan will play the role of General Nikolai Reeg – a well-known military history enthusiast associated with both the War Museum and the Front Line Estonia club. Of course, the house will be filled with music from the 1930s, and we can expect a fantastic performance from the Anna Curly Swing Band.“
During the party at Kindral Reegi House, all three floors will be utilized, offering experiences at every turn. In addition to the dance hall, there will be a bar where guests can order drinks and snacks in the latest European fashion, keeping the 1930s in mind. The basement will feature card games and a display of weapons for gentlemen, while the second floor will host a salon where ladies can learn the beauty secrets of the time. An exciting auction will take place, and guests can play the fun social game „Lilleflirt,“ popular in the 1930s and 1940s. A photo corner will also be set up for all party guests to take snapshots. The evening promises to provide a glimpse into living history and a chance to feel the atmosphere of past celebrations.
The Northern Camp, officially known as the Estonian Defense Forces‘ Petseri Northern Camp (II Division Headquarters), was established in Värska in 1926. It served as a summer training center for the cavalry and artillery units from all over Estonia. The soldiers themselves built most of the camp buildings. There were barracks for the soldiers, as well as stables for horses, officers‘ residences, a dining hall, and an elegant casino, or the camp’s home. Most of the buildings have since been destroyed, but those that remain offer a glimpse into the camp’s former glory. General Nikolai Reek (1890-1942) was a two-time Estonian Minister of Defense, the founder of the Northern Camp, and left behind a wealth of military writings.
On June 1, 2020, the Värska Visitor Center – Reegi House was opened in the former residence of the Estonian Defense Forces‘ 2nd Division Commander, colloquially known as Reegi House. The center aims to showcase the unique historical heritage of the Värska region, introduce the local natural resources, and provide a 1930s-style café atmosphere.
The upcoming 1930s-style party at Kindral Reegi House promises to be a delightful journey back in time, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience the elegance and charm of the era. It will be a celebration of Estonia’s rich history and a chance to immerse oneself in the vibrant culture of the 1930s.