Description of A.N. Minh’s trip from Volga to the Caucasus in 1868 as a source on the history of Russian regions and everyday life

Abstract

A review of the publication «Trip to Pyatigorsk in 1868» by the famous local historian, cultural and educational figure A.N. Minh is presented. The manuscript is stored in the State Archives of the Saratov Region. Before publishing, it was available only to a narrow circle of researchers. Now, thanks to the efforts of the workers of the State Archives of the Saratov Region and their assistants, numerous historians and specialists in other fields of scientific knowledge, employees of museums, libraries and other cultural institutions, students of higher and secondary schools, all those who are interested and fascinated by history Russia and its regions can familiarize themselves with it in detail. Minh’s work combines the characteristics of a personal diary, guidebook, statistical, geographical, historical and ethnographic researches. It is an interesting source and gives food for thought to everyone involved in the history of Russian regions (Saratov and Volgograd regions, Don and Stavropol territories, Pyatigorsk, Kislovodsk, Yessentuki and all Caucasian Mineral Waters), the history of everyday life and culture (especially related to travel, spa treatment and relaxation). There is extensive literature on the issues raised in the new publication, but Minh’s book clarifies and supplements the accumulated information with important details. The information was obtained as a result of personal observations, conversations with contemporaries, attention to materials of folklore, «oral history», archival documents, books and periodicals, inspection of museum collections, historical and natural attractions. The publication provides an opportunity for a wide range of specialists and readers to study “Trip to Pyatigorsk in 1868” by Minh.