Аннотация:In the nineteenth century scientific societies being nongovernmental voluntary associations of professional as well as amateur scientists were the leading institutions of Russian science. However, their role in the scientific, social, and cultural life of the country is essentially underestimated. This especially refers to the societies seated outside Petersburg. The present paper discusses the key characteristics that facilitated adaptation of the societies to the cultural realities of the nineteenth century Russia and fostered their research and educational activity. Special focus is given to the contribution of the societies to the exploration of the territory of the country.