For the first time in the history of Latvian museums an exposition, showing the service of the Latvian men in the Russian Empire army, has been created. This exposition is a logical continuation of the previously created exposition about Latvia in 17th – 18th century.
The exposition “The Latvian conscripts during 19th century and early 20th century” includes following sections: implementation of the recruitment system in the territory of Latvia in 1793; military reforms in the Russian Empire in 1860s - 1870s; the efforts of Latvian youth to receive free military education in the second half of 19th century and the formation of Latvian officership. The exposition also depicts the participation of Latvian soldiers and Latvian officers in wars and conquests of the Russian Empire.
In total, there are more than 160 different objects witch are displayed in this exposition: weapons, uniforms, documents, maps and military awards of the era. Many of these photos and documents are available for public viewing for the first time in history. Notably unique is a letter by P. Siliņš from St. Petersburg, written in 1845. This is one of the oldest known letters written by a Latvian soldier. Special mention should also be made on the E. Eglitis diary on the Russian-Japanese War (1904-1905). E. Eglitis was one of the Latvian officers serving in Imperial Russian Army during Russian-Japanese War.
The exposition is complemented by gorgeous wall paintings depicting military uniforms of the era. Visitors have the opportunity to measure themselves on the tool for measuring the height of newly recruited recruits. Finally, museum guests have the opportunity to pick up and hold in their hands real, late 19th century battle rifle.
