Established
1929
ABOUT US
The New York Estonian House
The New York Estonian Educational Society was established on December 7, 1929, born from a vision to unify the Estonians in New York.
At our founding meeting, 77 members convened to create the “Unified Estonian Organization”. Since that historic day, the Society has served as the heartbeat and focal point of Estonian culture, activity, and community in New York City.
96+
Years of
Culture
77
Founding
Members
Our Mission: To further Estonian culture in New York, and a meeting place for Estonians and friends of Estonia from around the world.
Our History
Explore the key moments that shaped the New York Estonian House. Follow the timeline below to see how our community has grown and evolved over the years.
December 7, 1929
Establishment of the Estonian Educational Society of New York
The Estonian Educational Society of New York (New York Estonian House) was established following a joint meeting of nationally minded Estonian organizations dedicated to supporting the community. Participants included the Estonian Society “Edu”, American Estonian Music Club, Estonian American Athletics Club, and the Estonian Club of New York. The founding act was signed by 77 representatives, and the organization was initially named the United Estonian Society.
January 19, 1930
First Regular Meeting
The Society held its first official regular meeting at the Finnish House on 5th Avenue in New York City, marking the beginning of its structured organizational activity.
August 7, 1930
Renaming and Establishment of Headquarters
At a special meeting, the organization was renamed the New York Estonian Educational Society. This change supported its goal of purchasing property collectively and minimizing tax implications. The Society established its first headquarters at 310 Lenox Avenue in Harlem.
Fall 1938
Relocation to Larger Facilities in Harlem
As the organization grew, the Society moved to larger quarters at 5 East 125th Street in Harlem, accommodating increasing membership and activities.
1943
Formation of Estonian Educational Society, Inc.
A formal corporate entity, Estonian Educational Society, Inc., was established to facilitate the future purchase of a permanent property for the Society.
1946
Purchase of the Estonian House Building
The Society purchased the building at 243 East 34th Street for $25,000, securing a permanent home for its operations and community activities.
1947
First Annual Meeting in Owned Building
The Society held its Annual Meeting in its own building for the first time, marking a major milestone in its stability and growth.
Post–World War II (Late 1940s)
Growth from Estonian Refugee Influx
Following World War II, a significant influx of Estonian refugees increased membership. The Estonian House became a vibrant and central hub for Estonian cultural and community life in New York.
1950
Expansion to Long Island – Summer Camp Development
The Society purchased a large tract of land in Long Island. It was developed by the Estonian community into a facility with buildings, a pool, and sports amenities, becoming a summer camp for Estonian children.
1950 – Present
Ongoing Role as Cultural Center
Since then, the Society has continuously served as the central hub and focal point for Estonian cultural, social, and community activity in New York.
LEADERSHIP & TEAM
NYEES Organization
The Society is managed by a 9-member Board of Directors, elected at the General Meeting to serve and support the Estonian community.
Board of Directors
Carl Skonberg
President
Liisi Fletcher
Vice President
Kaarel Laev
Treasurer
Thomas Pajusi
Assistant Treasurer
Tiina Järver
Secretary
Annika Conrad
Assistant Secretary
Argo Paumere
Repairs & Maintenance
Martin Vahtra
Construction
Heili Springsteen
Counselor
NYEES Staff
Katrin Albaz
Manager
Elke-Liisa Lõhmus
Assistant Manager
Helen Vilta
Superintendent
Riina Sõrra
Website
Humberto Flores
Bartender
Maria Nigul
Kitchen
Council of Elders
Ivi Tamm
Peeter Teedla
Virve Vaher
Eha Brownell
Mari Teedla
Toomas Sõrra
Committee of Auditors
Andrus Aasmaa
Ave Kaegi
Arno Puskar
Our Board Over Time
Preserve Estonian Heritage
Your support helps maintain the Estonian House and fund cultural programs, events, and community initiatives for future generations.
Make a Contribution
Your donation helps maintain both the New York Estonian House and the Long Island Estonian House, while supporting our suborganizations, cultural programs, and events. Every contribution helps sustain and grow our community for future generations.