Work

Museums of Branches and Sub-Branches of Imperial Russian Geographical Society in Siberia and Far East (Second Half of 19th — Early 20th Centuries)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This article examines the establishment and development of museums under the auspices of the Imperial Russian Geographical Society (IRGS) in Siberia and the Far East. It explores the institutional preconditions and historical foundations for the creation of these museums, along with data reflecting the growth of their collections and their public reception. Special attention is given to the contributions of the Siberian (East Siberian) Branch of the IRGS in advancing museum development in the region. The primary methods of collection-building are identified, as well as the efforts of Society members to catalog and systematize museum holdings. The role of these museums in public education and knowledge dissemination is assessed. Notably, the Siberian Branch and its museum laid the groundwork for a broader network of museums in Omsk, Khabarovsk, Chita, Troitskosavsk-Kyakhta, Krasnoyarsk, and other Siberian and Far Eastern cities. The article pays particular attention to the logistical and financial challenges faced by these institutions. Findings suggest that IRGS branches and sub-branches had uneven income levels, which directly influenced their developmental trajectories. Despite budgetary constraints in some cases, affiliation with the IRGS provided structural support, facilitating the expansion of collections, improvements in cataloging practices, and increased public engagement.

Source: Nauchnyi Dialog

DOI: 10.24224/2227-1295-2025-14-9-427-451

Author: E. V. Igumnov

Institution: Saint Petersburg State University of Veterinary Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Libraries and Information Services

Subfield: Museology

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $247

Funder: Russian Geographical Society