Czynniki kształtujące ceny nieruchomości ziemskich na obszarze guberni grodzieńskiej Cesarstwa Rosyjskiego w latach 1865-1915

Abstract

The article analyses the dynamics of land prices in the north-western gubernias of the Russian Empire between 1865 and 1915. The scope of the study covered location factors that had the most significant impact on land value differentiation. The author also intended to verify the current state of research on the land market in the context of the correct estimation of land prices. The analysis was based on two types of ownership – the first concerned estates created based on the so-called “Instruction” issued in 1865. “Instruction estates” could be acquired and inherited by persons of Russian origin and Orthodox faith, i.e. Russians, Belarusians, and Ukrainians. Polish nobility, peasants and townspeople of Catholic faith and Jews were prohibited from purchasing or leasing this type of land. The second category of land ownership included “non-instruction” estates, but their trade, particularly in the western gubernias, was also restricted. In addition to the Orthodox population, Polish peasants and townspeople of the Roman Catholic faith were allowed to participate in this type of transaction, except for the Polish landed gentry. The primary source material used for research on real estate prices was notarial and chancery documents stored in the State Archives in Białystok. An analysis of purchase and sale agreements made it possible to determine the market value of agricultural land in the western borderlands of the Russian Empire over 50 years (1865–1915). This study helped identify the factors that influenced the highest land prices. Among the three selected locations, the road network significantly impacted the prices of endowed estates and undeveloped agricultural land. Conversely, land situated near urban centres was more favourable for subdividing estates and selling plots to meet the needs of expanding cities. Residential plots, regardless of ownership type, commanded higher prices compared to agricultural land and developed properties. In the case of the railway network, elevated land prices were associated with state investments and the expansion of railway infrastructure.