Udział polskich ziemian w wileńskich towarzystwach naukowych na przełomie XIX i XX wieku

Abstract

At the turn of the 19th century, Polish landowners, ignoring numerous limitations imposed by the Russian authorities, took active part in setting up and developing Polish learned societies in Vilna. They initiated, for example, the Society of Horse Races and the Vilna Society of Agriculture, which, apart from dealing with horse breeding and farming, were dedicated to education and cultural activities. They also supported the establishment and activities of the Society of Science and Art Museum and the Friends of Science Society in Vilna, whose purpose was to research national history and culture, as well as to preserve national heritage. Some landowners donated significant amounts of money; others–books, manuscripts, archival documents, works of art and exhibits. Those landowners who were members of Vilna learned societies and were bent on research work acquired necessary qualifications, explored history, gave lectures and published the results of their work.