A. A. Geraklitov

This article examines how informal connections of A. A. Geraklitov (1867–1933), established during his work in the Saratov Scientific Archival Commission (SSAC, Russian: Саратовская ученая архивная комиссия, СУАК) in 1908–1917, influenced his path in historical science. Based on the materials of personal correspondence, the circle of his closest comrades in the commission is outlined, through which a certain idea is given about the social and intellectual aspects of the SSAC.

The article deals with the question of how the accumulation of information about the leaders of Saratov, who served here since the founding of the city and up to the beginning of the XVIII century. It is shown how this process is connected with the publication of various documentary sources during the XIX – early XX centuries, with the publication of genealogical collections and biographical dictionaries, as well as with the creation of the Saratov Academic Archival Commission. The names of the researchers who dealt with this issue are given.

The article considers the unknown pages of the history of Saratov during the first twenty years after the foundation of the city, the characteristic of the "Saratov Annals", composed 120 years ago is given. The main studies concerning this period of Saratov’s history are discussed in detail and their shortcomings are indicated.

The historical study of Russian regions in the 1810s – 1850s was connected with the general development of the historiographic process. Conceptual shift of philosophy concerning social life of society resulted in increased interest in local history. Early studies of Saratov Volga region’s history were assisted by the provincial administration and the episcopal cathedra.