Museum
Brief history of the Latvian Museum
The museum’s collection reflects the unique Latvian cultural background and tells the story of Latvian South Australians.
The museum came into existence after enthusiastic committee members saw the need to develop and establish a museum with items of cultural heritage for future generations.
By 1972 their dream was reached and the museum officially opened in the premises on 36 Rose Tce during the Adelaide Latvian Cultural Festival.
Two rooms were filled with donated cultural items but eventually the museum expanded to four rooms.
On display are various art forms using traditional designs.
The beautiful and elaborate patterns that once expressed religious and mystical ideas evolved over the centuries from simple zigzag and flowing wave like patterns to intricate designs which are incorporated in ceramics, wood carvings, textiles, jewellery and national costumes.
There are many varieties of the female national costume.
There is also a large collection of mittens which are knitted in various patterns.
From early childhood the Latvian women became proficient in the art of knitting mittens using their imagination to create elaborate ornamental designs from the ancient symbols and signs.
It was believed that the signs protected against evil spirits.
In the past the mittens were often used as gifts of thanks where one of the traditions was to hang a string of mittens over the threshold of a homestead at weddings, and each guest received a pair at the end of the celebrations.
The museum’s aim is to promote and continue collecting items and information of historical significance.
It is an ongoing process to remember the past and preserve the cultural heritage for the future generations.
The museum is open on the final Saturday in each month from 10am-2pm, and at other times by appointment.
Phone Mara on +61 8 8268 1289 or email her.
The museum also has a small website: The Latvian Museum