In the 1910s, most villages in Arkhangelsk province were small, tight-knit communities. Homes were typically built from logs, with steep roofs to handle heavy snow. A single stove often heated the entire space, serving for both cooking and warmth.
Daily life revolved around farming and seasonal work. Families grew rye, oats, and potatoes, storing them for the long winter months. Livestock—usually a few cows, chickens, and perhaps a horse—were essential for survival. Caring for animals was part of the daily routine for both adults and children.
Winters were long and severe. Roads often became impassable, and travel between villages slowed to a crawl. During these months, families focused on indoor tasks: repairing tools, weaving cloth, and making boots or felt shoes.
The Russian Orthodox Church played a central role in community life. Villagers attended services on Sundays and major religious holidays. Festivals tied to the church calendar brought rare breaks from routine, with music, food, and gatherings in the village square.
Clothing was mostly homemade. Women spun wool or flax into thread, wove fabric, and sewed garments for their families. Sheepskin coats and fur-lined hats were common in winter, while simpler linen clothing was worn in warmer months.
Children began working early. Boys helped in the fields and tended animals, while girls learned cooking, sewing, and other household tasks. Schooling was limited, and many children attended only during part of the year, depending on farm demands.
