This 1973 postcard from Zaporizhzhia offers a picturesque view of the body of water known as V.I. Lenin Lake, showcasing active water recreation during the Soviet era.
What is shown on the postcard
The foreground of the postcard features several sailboats, likely “Optimist” class or similar small racing dinghies, with people aboard engaged in sailing. Some boats bear identification numbers, such as “FD 7” and “ЛГ 842”. In the distance, a shoreline with green trees and low-rise buildings is visible, possibly including industrial chimneys characteristic of Zaporizhzhia’s industrial landscape. The water surface is calm, and the sky is clear.
Historical note
V.I. Lenin Lake was an unofficial but widely used name during the Soviet period for a section of the Dnieper Reservoir or the lower reach of the DniproHES within the city limits of Zaporizhzhia. Since the 1930s, after the construction of the DniproHES, the Dnieper became an important center for the development of water sports, including sailing. Numerous yacht clubs and DOSAAF (Volunteer Society for Cooperation with the Army, Aviation, and Navy) sections actively promoted sailing among the population, organizing competitions and training on the waterways.
Present day
Today, the waterways of Zaporizhzhia, which are part of the Dnieper Reservoir, continue to be used for recreation and water sports. Although the official name “V.I. Lenin Lake” is no longer applied, the traditions of sailing persist, and regattas are regularly held on the Dnieper. The ecological condition and infrastructure have changed, but the river remains a vital element of urban life and recreation.
Questions and answers
- What is depicted on the 1973 postcard from Zaporizhzhia? The postcard depicts sailboats on the body of water known as V.I. Lenin Lake in Zaporizhzhia in 1973.
- What was “V.I. Lenin Lake” in Zaporizhzhia? “V.I. Lenin Lake” was an unofficial name for a section of the Dnieper Reservoir or the lower reach of the DniproHES in Zaporizhzhia, widely used during the Soviet era.
- How did sailing develop in Zaporizhzhia during the Soviet period? After the construction of the DniproHES in Zaporizhzhia, the Dnieper became a center for water sports, and numerous yacht clubs and DOSAAF sections promoted sailing by organizing competitions and training.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Zaporizhzhia from 1973.
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