THE SOVIET OFFERS BATHS TO ESKIMOS

Evening Post, Volume CXX, Issue 144, 14 December 1935, Page 31

THE SOVIET OFFERS BATHS TO ESKIMOS

Baths for Eskimos in the Soviet Arctic, modern houses to - replace igloos, <»nd mechanised bakeries are basic needs if fur-trading posts are to be developed, said Professor Otto Schmidt, chief of the Great Northern Sea Route Administration, on his return to Leningrad by aeroplane and icebreaker from an inspection trip over a network of polar stations, reports the Moscow correspondent of the "New York Times." •-■■ ■ ■Tall dark ma&ts of radio stations' dotting the vast eternal icefield of the Soviet .Arctic and aeroplanes wheeling above white bears—this is the picture painted, by Professor . Schmidt. He said the "delivery of freight" to the rernotesf settlements was cheaper by aeroplane than by reindeer. Although the potentialities of the north have been rapidly developed under the Soviet Government through exploration,' the establishment of scientific stations and the conquering of a northern sea route, only by. introducing modern transport, expanding agriculture, creating decent living conditions, and: strengthening cultural work will the nomadic northerners adopt sedentary, life ways,' Professor Schmidt asserted:' ' ■ "It is impossible to convince them of the advantages of settling down at fur-trading posts so long as there are no bathhouses and no adequate housing," he said. "Next year such measures will be carried out at all points, and mechanised bakeries will be organised at every trading post." Geological expeditions to the Far

North, where mineral deposits are believed to be extensive, will be increased on the sea route at the chief's recommendation, and a chain of experimental agricultural stations will be operated for growing frost-resistant crops. Already tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce flourish under glass in the Khibina experiment station beyond the Polar Circle, and varieties of potatoes and cabbage have been developed that mature outdoors in the short polar summer. "On my trip I met a number of splendid people who know the North and are devoted to it," Professor Schmidt recounted. "It is possible to find cultured homes, schools, nurseries, and hospitals among the various nationalities, and there are some good shops." ■••■.■• Reminding one of the American pioneering in Alaska, he said:— "It is regrettable, however, that not only enthusiasts flock to the North, but sometimes adventurous elements, ambitious to get rich quick. They cause much harm and must be eliminated promptly and firmly." Strengthening of political guidance and great care in the appointment of Communist Party organisers at trading posts were urged .by Professor Schmidt, who concluded \y saying:— "One of the worst impressions I had was in regard to the lack of suitable housing. The people are often forced to live in crowded, unsanitary conditions. We must show as much devotion to these people as they have shown; in conquering the Arctic. •