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CAPE SCHMIDT Named after a Russian who opened up a northern sea route along the Arctic coast, Cape Schmidt is part military base, part summer seaport, and part factory town. Many of its residents were sent here forcibly. Others came voluntarily: Under the Soviet regime, living in such a harsh environment brought higher pay and benefits. Like many Russian towns, Cape Schmidt reflects the economic depression that followed the break-up of the Soviet Union and the end of government subsidies. Buildings seem on the verge of collapse. Between them sit piles of debris: tangled pieces of metal, concrete blocks, and even garbage. Hundreds of rusting tin cans lie outside one building. |
