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Rare Imperial Russian Vologda–Vyatka Railway Construction Archive, c. 1902–1906An interesting and historically significant group of 4 original antique photographs and 1 original business card, connected with the Administration for the Construction of the Vologda–Vyatka Railway in the Russian Empire.
The Vologda–Vyatka Railway was constructed in the early 1900s and opened for regular operation in 1906. Based on the contemporary wording “Administration for the Construction of the Vologda–Vyatka Railway”, this group can be attributed to the railway\'s actual construction period, approximately c. 1902–1906.
The original business card reads:Pavel Ivanovich SmirnyaginSenior AccountantAdministration for the Construction of the Vologda–Vyatka RailwayYaroslavlThe name A. E. Minin is also handwritten on the card.On the reverse is a period pencil note apparently requesting 25 envelopes of each of the supplied samples, followed by a note indicating that the writer would come and settle the payment.
The four photographs appear to document employees and the offices of the railway construction administration.
Of particular interest is the photograph showing an official standing beside an open office safe. In one hand he holds a large ledger bearing a visible Russian inscription identifying it as the:“Cash Book of the Administration for the Construction of the Vologda–Vyatka Railway.”In his other hand is a bundle of period printed financial papers. Their precise type has not been conclusively identified.
The remaining photographs show individual and group portraits of officials in an office environment, providing a fascinating glimpse into the administrative and financial side of major railway construction in the late Russian Empire.
Approximate sizes:Business card: 7.8 × 12.4 cmThree photographs: 6 × 9 cm eachPhotograph with the safe and cash book: 6.3 × 10.3 cm
A scarce documentary group for collectors of Imperial Russian history, railway and railroad history, early photography, financial history and historical ephemera.
All 5 original period items pictured are included in this lot.
These are original antique items, not modern reproductions.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and condition report.
Combined shipping is available. If you purchase multiple items from my store, please contact me before payment and I will combine shipping whenever possible.
