Nizhny Novgorod City Widows’ Home at End of 19th — Early 20th Century: Activities in Education and Healthcare

Abstract

This article examines the activities of the Nizhny Novgorod City Public Widows’ Home named after Blinovy and Bugrovy at the end of the 19th — early 20th century. The relevance of the study is determined by the increasing entrepreneurial activity and private initiative in the field of charity in modern Russia, the emergence of numerous charitable organizations and foundations, and the need to familiarize oneself with historical experience. An overview of various directions of activity of the Nizhny Novgorod City Public Widows’ Home is provided, based on its charter and reports. The educational activities of primary and vocational schools opened at the Widows’ Home are examined, along with the quantitative, social, and age composition of students, as well as the sources of material assistance provided to them. The article extensively covers the allocation of funds for education, sources and forms of donations. The medical services provided to the residents are characterized, including the number of visits by paramedics and doctors, types of diseases, levels, and causes of child and adult mortality. The article highlights the universality of the institution’s work, which combines various areas of activity within its framework. The author concludes that the second half of the 19th — early 20th century was a period of private initiative in social security with significant support from local self-government bodies.