The Connecticut Estonian Society
The official founding of the Connecticut Estonian Society (Connecticuti Eesti Selts -CES) occurred on May 14, 1950, at a meeting held at the Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Willimantic, CT. Twenty-six people became members of the new organization. An executive board was elected, with Villem Raus becoming its first Chairman. Through the subsequent years, the CES has played an essential role in maintaining the Estonian language, culture, and traditions in Connecticut and the surrounding region and even nationally. For example, the leaders of major Estonian organizations were also members of CES, such as the Estonian American National Council (EANC), the Estonian World Council, the National leaders of the Estonian boy scout, and girl guides, and the current executive director of the EANC.
For more than seventy years, CES has been the heart blood of the Connecticut Estonian community. CES is an organization whose members are Estonians (or friends of Estonia) living in Connecticut or the New England and Tri-state area. Its purpose and mission are to promote Estonian social and cultural activities in this region. CES coordinates its efforts and supports the work of other Connecticut organizations, such as the Lutheran Congregation, the Saturday School, and the scouting groups. CES maintains the Estonian Land parcel in Andover, CT (Eesti maa) and organizes cultural and social events and activities yearly. Over the years, Eesti Maa has been the pivotal focal point for Estonian activities for the Connecticut Estonian Community and people from neighboring states (Võidupüha, Jaanipäev, Suvepäev). In addition, it is a venue for church services, scouting events, the forest Christmas tree lighting, Estonian School activities, as well as for lectures and performances by visitors from Estonia, and much more. In addition, Eesti maa has served as a venue for even broader Estonian activities, such as hosting ESTO song and dance practice retreats for groups across the East Coast and as far away as Canada. In addition, CES rents space for many of its activities (Estonian Independence Day, Film evenings, etc.) These activities cost money and require support from CES members and donors who care about preserving the Estonian culture in our region. One hundred percent (100%) of your dues and donations go for these cultural and social activities and the repair and maintenance of the Eesti maa. The CES Chairman and the executive board members receive no compensation for their time, work, and efforts. CES is a certified IRS tax-deductible charitable organization.