Description
This small archive consists mainly of information relating to Olga Ritso's family history, and Walter Kistler's scientific
work. It illustrates the interconnectivity between Estonia and the US in the twentieth century.
Background
Olga Ritso-Kistler was born Olga Ritso in Ukraine in 1920, where her Estonian father was a medical student, during the Russian
civil war. As Soviet power consolidated, the family's attempt to return with their two small children to Estonia via Moscow
was complicated. In 1922, her mother died of illness related to the Holodomor, the Ukraine famine. Her father was arrested
by the Bolsheviks, brought to Siberia, and would not be reunited with the family until 1932. The children managed to receive
safe passage to Estonia, and initially stayed with foster families.
Extent
15 Linear Feet
(28 boxes and two digital files)
Restrictions
While Special Collections is the owner of the physical and digital items, permission to examine collection materials is not
an authorization to publish. These materials are made available for use in research, teaching, and private study. Any transmission
or reproduction beyond that allowed by fair use requires permission from the owners of rights, heir(s) or assigns.
Availability
Open for research. Note that material must be requested at least 36 hours in advance of intended use. Audiovisual materials
are not available in original format, and must be reformatted to a digital use copy. Selected audiovisual material from this
collection has been digitized and is available via Searchworks.