102-year-old Jānis Elmers completes fourth book on his birthday

Jānis Elmers, a resident of Kuldīga, celebrated his 102nd birthday on July 5. He marked the occasion by finishing the manuscript of his fourth book.

Elmers was born on July 5, 1924, in the village of Sāviena, now part of Madona Municipality's Ļaudona Parish. His life has spanned several historical periods: the Ulmanis era, World War II, Soviet occupation, and the restoration of Latvian independence. These experiences form the basis of his books, which blend personal memories with valuable historical testimony.

His first autobiographical work, "Dzīves pavasaris" (Spring of Life), focuses on his childhood; the second, "Kad lielgabali runāja" (When the Cannons Spoke), covers the war years; and the third, "Manas dzīves pēckara līkloči" (The Post-War Twists of My Life), deals with life after the war. The newly completed fourth book is a tribute to his birthplace Sāviena, describing from memory around 300 buildings and the fates of their owners and inhabitants. This work is particularly significant because many of his contemporaries are no longer alive to testify to those times.

Elmers began writing his memoirs to leave a record for his children and grandchildren. Initially, he wrote by hand, later using a typewriter and a tape recorder. At about age 80, he learned to use a computer, which became an essential part of his daily life and creative work, allowing him to write and edit books and manage his extensive photo archive.

Over his career, Elmers worked as a director of a community center and library, an electrician, a TV repairman, and also engaged in local history research. He hopes his fourth book will be published and reach readers.