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Summerfolk: A History of the Dacha from 1710 to 2000

J.D. Salinger

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Published in Summerfolk: A History Of The Dacha 1710 2000

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The dacha is a uniquely Russian institution, a country house where city dwellers can escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Dachas have been around for centuries, and they have played an important role in Russian history and culture.

Summerfolk: A History of the Dacha, 1710–2000

by Stephen Lovell

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	281 pages

The first dachas were built in the early 18th century by Peter the Great, who encouraged his nobles to build country houses outside of St. Petersburg. These early dachas were simple wooden structures, but they gradually became more elaborate over time. By the 19th century, dachas were a common feature of Russian life, and they were owned by people of all social classes.

Dachas have always been more than just a place to relax. They have also been a place to socialize, to entertain guests, and to escape the rigors of everyday life. Dachas have been the setting for many famous works of Russian literature, including Chekhov's "The Cherry Orchard" and Tolstoy's "Anna Karenina."

The dacha has also been a symbol of political change in Russia. After the Russian Revolution, dachas were confiscated from their former owners and turned into rest homes for workers. In the Soviet era, dachas were often allocated to privileged members of the Communist Party. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, dachas were once again privatized, and they have become a symbol of wealth and status.

Today, dachas are still a popular part of Russian life. They are a place to escape the city, to relax, and to enjoy the company of family and friends. Dachas are also a reminder of Russia's rich history, and they continue to play an important role in Russian culture.

The Architecture of the Dacha

Dachas come in all shapes and sizes, but they all share some common features. Most dachas are made of wood, and they have a simple, rustic design. They typically have a porch or veranda, where residents can relax and enjoy the outdoors. Dachas also often have a garden, where residents can grow their own food.

The architecture of the dacha has changed over time. In the early days, dachas were simple wooden structures. By the 19th century, dachas had become more elaborate, and they often featured gingerbread trim and other decorative elements. In the Soviet era, dachas were often built in a standardized style, with little regard for aesthetics. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, dachas once again became more varied in design, and many new dachas were built in a modern style.

The Dacha in Russian Culture

The dacha has always been more than just a place to live. It has also been a place to socialize, to entertain guests, and to escape the rigors of everyday life. Dachas have been the setting for many famous works of Russian literature, including Chekhov's "The Cherry Orchard" and Tolstoy's "Anna Karenina."

Summerfolk: A History of the Dacha, 1710–2000

by Stephen Lovell

4.9 out of 5