järelvõõdust

Järelvõõlaste refers to a linguistic and cultural phenomenon in which Estonian settlers in North America, after arriving in their new homeland, would often send solicited or unsolicited letters back to their native villages in Estonia, with stories, descriptions of their lives, and news from the New World. These letters were typically written in local dialects and reflected the writers' strong ties to their homeland and ancestral heritage.

Historically, the practice of järelvõõlaste was a common means of communication for Estonian immigrants, who relied on these letters to keep in touch with family and friends back home. The letters often contained detailed descriptions of daily life, including descriptions of the harsh climate, rural landscape, and demanding work on the settlers' new farms. Järelvõõlaste also provided a platform for writers to share news about local events, politics, and cultural practices, as well as seek advice and assistance from their relatives and acquaintances in Estonia.

The collection and study of järelvõõlaste letters has become an important part of Estonian-American history and cultural heritage, providing valuable insights into the lives and experiences of Estonian immigrants in North America. Many of these letters have been preserved and archived, offering researchers and historians a unique window into the early days of Estonian settlement in North America.