Katanki, volnushechki, chesanki, vikhodki, pimi - are forgotten words in Russian language. All of them mean valenki. Recently an event called Russian Valenok Day, was held at the central library of Polisaevo town, in memory of this unique piece of old Russian footwear
Organisers had meticulously planned every details of the event. In front of the library, was a hand-made rug, with valenki of all sizes and in all colours on it. Pictures of original valenki held in the museum of Mishkin town were displayed on a modern plazma screen.
Together with Rostislav Kuznetsov, a descendant of Siberian pimokat (pimokat was a maker of valenki), the visitors watch the recreated process of producing valenki. To make valenki, you need 100% natural fleece (lambswool), hot water, steam, simple tools, and skilful hands of craftsmen but not any chemical additive. Such a process gives nonsuture felt boots some unique heat-preserve properties, being always dry inside, as the moisture is easily evaporated. That is why even Peter the First recognised their medical function and there were no better footwear than valenki in Russia.
There also a pancake week went along with the Valenki day and go-round carol singings and harmonica dances at the event.
Tha fans of valenki in Polisaevo were glad to see that the tradition of their ancestors was displayed in the library - with donated items such as enigmas, games, ditties, songs, dances, flashbacks and praises to valenki. Most of visitors were with valenki on their feet. When the event was over, people could inspect the works of pimokat and let him make valenkis for them according to their tastes.
Written by Olga Kirina