In the old center of Rostov Veliky, in the former estate of one of the wealthiest Rostov merchants, the Museum of Rostov Merchant Life opened in 2008. The enormous mansion in the classical style belonged to Alexei Kekin, who, being a successful merchant, became one of Rostov's most notable patrons.
He opened a linen manufactory in the city, helped restore the kremlin and open a museum of antiquities, and bequeathed a huge sum for the construction of the city gymnasium. It is no surprise that a rather extensive exhibition is devoted to merchant Kekin, his deeds for the good of the city, his lineage, and the family estate.
Other collections of the museum will introduce you to the history, customs, and way of life of 19th-century merchants. In the first hall - the Entrance Hall, drawings and engravings of views of the city in the century before last are gathered. The living room is dedicated to the Kekins, and the study tells in detail about the patronage and charitable activities of Alexei Leontyevich.
The dining room demonstrates the furnishings of a prosperous 19th-century home: solid furniture, porcelain tableware, and interior decorations. One of the most interesting selections is gathered in the Ladies' Drawing Room. Here you can admire the jewelry and outfits of merchants' wives, examine the interior of the boudoir, and learn about popular types of needlework.
The exhibitions have been created very carefully and with attention to detail; the museum looks almost like a lived-in house whose owners stepped away for a short while but will soon return and sit on their charming little sofas and armchairs to read a book or finish their embroidery.
