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Humanity has always strived to seek and preserve material objects that most express the uniqueness and distinctiveness of culture. From the dawn of their development, people began collecting and passing down the most significant and valuable objects of material culture to their descendants. These objects served as the basis for the continuity of traditions of a particular people. To ensure their preservation and display, special spaces were created, which eventually became known as museums. Among them, military museums hold a special place, preserving the material history of humanity's military practices and contributing to the organization of public life through military means. One of the sacred places of storage and memory of military glory is located in Voronezh – it is the Museum of the Voronezh Front.

General Overview of the Museum of the Voronezh Front and Its Importance in Preserving the History of the Great Patriotic War

The Historical and Memorial Museum "Command Post of the Central Front" was established by the decision of the Council of Deputies of Kursk. The museum is located on the territory of the memorial complex and is a branch of the local history museum. Its main goal is to preserve and pass down to future generations the memory of the heroism of the Great Patriotic War, emphasizing the role of the Central Front in the Battle of Kursk.

The museum's exhibitions cover the following topics:

• The history of the museum's creation – a detailed analysis of the process from project to foundation, as well as the first steps in project implementation.
• The liberation of the Zolotukhinsky district from the fascists – a narrative about the place and time of battles for liberation with visual attributes.
• Information about key members of the Central Front council.
• Details about staff work and operation planning.
• Among the museum's exhibits are personal belongings and documents of the commanders and chiefs of the Central Front divisions, which help to understand their contribution to the military actions more deeply.

Main museum tours include:

• The activities of the departments and administrations of the Central Front headquarters during the preparation and conduct of the Battle of Kursk.
• The Battle of Kursk as one of the most significant battles of the Great Patriotic War.
• The life and career of the front commander.

The museum is located on the territory of the memorial complex, in close proximity to the historical and architectural ensemble "Korennaia Pustyn" and the male monastery of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary "Korennaia Pustyn."

Foundation and Development of the Museum

The museum was opened on May 9, 1975, and is a non-profit institution with cultural, mass, and research activities. The Kursk Regional History Museum is the superior organization.

The History of the Museum's Creation

The inspiration for creating a museum dedicated to the significant events of the Battle of Kursk and the role of the Central Front came from the initiative of the Kursk Regional Council of Deputies of Workers. Their goal was to perpetuate the memory of the heroism and strategic importance of this battle.

The museum, organized as a branch of the Kursk Regional History Museum, is located on the territory of the memorial complex in the Zolotukhinsky district. This location was chosen not by chance, as it was here that the command post of the Central Front was located, which played a key role in managing combat operations.

From its very first days, the museum aimed not only to preserve wartime artifacts but also to convey to visitors the significance and details of these historical events.

The creation and development of the museum became possible thanks to the efforts of many dedicated individuals, among whom are:

• Anatoly Timofeevich Vorobyev (1910-2000), a war veteran who played an important role in initiating the creation of the museum and actively participating in its establishment.
• Irina Viktorovna Lotashova, the first director of the museum, under whose leadership the museum acquired its unique identity and direction.
• Valentina Vasilievna Ozerova, the museum curator, who made a significant contribution to the collection of exhibits and the organization of exhibitions that expanded and enriched the museum's collection.
• Olga Anatolievna Umerenko and Marina Vasilievna Danilycheva, researchers whose research activities and popularization of historical facts made the museum an important scientific and educational center.

These key figures, through their efforts and dedication, ensured the museum's status as an important keeper of the memory of the heroic events and participants of the Battle of Kursk.

Stages of Development and Expansion of Museum Collections

The museum's exhibitions were formed with the participation of war veterans, historians, and local residents. Families of soldiers and officers played an important role in this, donating documents, photographs, and personal belongings of their relatives to the museum.

Over time, the museum's collection has significantly expanded. New exhibits have been added, revealing various aspects of military life and the feats of Central Front fighters. The museum has become an important educational center, where tours, lectures, and thematic classes are held for schoolchildren, students, and adult visitors.

Main Exhibitions and Exhibits

The Historical and Memorial Museum "Command Post of the Central Front" features a variety of exhibitions that cover key moments in the history of the Great Patriotic War and, in particular, the role of the Central Front in the Battle of Kursk. The museum presents:

• The history of the museum's creation: An exhibition dedicated to the process of founding the museum, starting from its opening in 1975.
• The liberation of the Zolotukhinsky district and the town of Svoboda from Nazi invaders: A story of the fierce battles for the liberation of these territories.
• The composition of the Central Front Military Council: Information about key figures who were part of the Military Council.
• The work of the headquarters and operations department during the preparation and conduct of the Battle of Kursk: Details of the headquarters' work and battle planning.
• Main exhibits include personal belongings of commanders and chiefs of various Central Front divisions, documents, photographs, and items used during the war. The memorial complex also features a reconstructed dugout, busts, steles, samples of military equipment, and sculptures dedicated to the heroism of Soviet soldiers.

Description of Permanent and Temporary Museum Exhibitions

The Historical and Memorial Museum "Command Post of the Central Front" boasts a rich and varied collection of permanent exhibitions that comprehensively reveal key moments in the history of the Central Front and the Battle of Kursk. The main permanent exhibitions include:

• The history of the museum's creation: This exhibition tells the story of the museum's founding process, from the decision of the Kursk Regional Council of Deputies of Workers to the first steps in organizing exhibitions. It includes archival documents, photographs, and materials that reveal the details of the work of the first organizers and participants in the museum's creation.
• The liberation of the Zolotukhinsky district and the town of Svoboda from Nazi invaders: The exhibition highlights the fierce battles and heroic efforts of Soviet troops to liberate their land. Visitors can see maps showing the points of battle encounters, documents of fighters, their personal items, including orders and medals. Some photos of soldiers have also been preserved.
• The composition of the Central Front Military Council: This section presents information about key figures who were part of the Central Front Military Council. Visitors can see portraits, biographies, and personal belongings of commanders and council members, helping to understand the structure and functions of front management.
• The work of the headquarters and operations department during the preparation and conduct of the Battle of Kursk: The exhibition provides a detailed account of the role of the headquarters and operations department in preparing and conducting the Battle of Kursk.
• Personal belongings of combat participants: This exhibition showcases personal items of well-known Central Front commanders, such as Marshal K.K. Rokossovsky and Chief of Staff M.S. Malinin.

The museum also regularly organizes temporary exhibitions that complement the main exhibitions and are dedicated to various aspects of military history. Temporary exhibitions are often brought from other museums and collections, enriching the exhibition space and offering new topics for study.

• Anniversary exhibitions: Temporary exhibitions dedicated to the anniversary dates of the Great Patriotic War, such as the anniversaries of the beginning and end of the war, as well as key battles.
• Themes of international cooperation: Exhibitions telling about the interaction and alliance of the USSR with other countries in the fight against fascism.
• Exhibitions of rare and unique exhibits: Periodic exhibitions that showcase rare and unique items usually kept in storerooms.

Narrative of the Most Significant and Rare Exhibits

The Historical and Memorial Museum "Command Post of the Central Front" is proud of its rich collection of exhibits that provide a deep understanding of the events and people who played a key role in the Battle of Kursk. Among the most significant and rare exhibits of the museum are:

• Personal belongings of Marshal K.K. Rokossovsky: These include his uniform, awards, personal documents, and photographs. These exhibits are provided by the marshal's family and represent unique artifacts reflecting the personal life and career of one of the outstanding commanders.
• Items of the Central Front Chief of Staff M.S. Malinin: These include his uniform, writing utensils, and personal notes, allowing an understanding of how the staff work was organized.
• Front engineering exhibits led by Proshlyakov: Secret technical documents and developments of military engineers can be studied in detail.
• Personal belongings of the 65th Army Commander P.I. Batov and the 16th Air Army Commander S.I. Rudenko: These exhibits include uniforms, awards, and documents reflecting their contribution to the victory in the Battle of Kursk.
• Collections of numismatics, weapons, textiles, and military equipment: These include rare coins, medals, samples of weapons, and military uniforms, providing visitors with the opportunity to see items used during the war.

Educational Activities and Cultural Events

The museum actively participates in the educational and cultural life of the region, offering various programs and events aimed at popularizing history and fostering patriotism.

Programs for Schoolchildren and Students

The museum has developed special programs for schoolchildren and students, including tours, interactive activities, and thematic lessons. These programs help the younger generation better understand the history of the Great Patriotic War, get acquainted with the heroic feats of the defenders of the Motherland, and realize the importance of preserving historical memory.

Thematic Events, Lectures, and Meetings with Veterans

The museum regularly organizes thematic events, lectures, and meetings with veterans. These events allow visitors not only to hear firsthand accounts from eyewitnesses but also to ask questions, learn about personal experiences, and views on historical events. Lectures are conducted by historians and specialists who share their knowledge and latest research, while meetings with veterans create a unique opportunity for intergenerational dialogue.

The Museum as a Center of Memory and Mourning

The "Command Post of the Central Front" museum fulfills an important function as a center of memory and mourning, preserving and passing on to future generations knowledge of the heroic past of our country.

The Role of the Museum in Commemorative Events and Actions

The museum plays a key role in organizing and conducting commemorative events and actions. Every year, solemn ceremonies dedicated to important dates of the Great Patriotic War, such as Victory Day and the anniversary of the beginning of the Battle of Kursk, are held here. The museum also organizes memory actions, such as the "Immortal Regiment," where descendants of soldiers and officers can march with portraits of their heroic ancestors. These events contribute to preserving and strengthening historical memory and patriotism among citizens.

The Symbolism and Importance of the Museum in Preserving the Memory of the War

The museum serves as an important symbol of memory of the war, representing a place where every visitor can touch history, feel the greatness and tragedy of the war years. The museum's exhibits and displays remind us of the sacrifices and feats, courage, and resilience of the soldiers and officers who defended their homeland. The museum plays a vital role in preserving and transmitting the memory of the war, ensuring generational continuity and respect for historical events.

Planning a Visit

Information about hours of operation, tickets, and visitor services:

The museum is open for visits daily, except Monday. Hours of operation: from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entrance tickets can be purchased at the museum's ticket office, and ticket prices vary depending on the age and category of visitors (schoolchildren, students, pensioners). The museum offers a variety of services for visitors, including guided tours, thematic lectures, and workshops. Group tours and special events can be booked in advance by contacting the museum administration.

How to Get There and What to See First

The museum is located at: Kursk, Lunacharskogo St., 6. You can reach the museum by public transport or car. Bus and trolleybus stops are located in close proximity to the museum, making it accessible to all categories of visitors.

For inquiries, call: +7 (47151) 4-13-56

Official website: Museum "Command Post of the Central Front"

Recommended to see first:

• The exhibition about the museum's creation and its history.
• The hall dedicated to the liberation of the Zolotukhinsky district and the town of Svoboda.
• Personal items of Marshal K.K. Rokossovsky and other commanders.
• The reconstruction of the front commander's dugout.
• Samples of military equipment on the memorial grounds.

Visiting the "Command Post of the Central Front" museum will allow you to better understand and feel historical events, immerse yourself in the atmosphere of wartime, and pay tribute to the heroes who fought for the freedom and independence of our Motherland.

Museums dedicated to the history of the Great Patriotic War play a crucial role today in preserving the memory of the great feat of the Soviet people who saved the Earth from the fascist plague in 1941-1945. They help educate the younger generation in the spirit of patriotism, aid in studying the national history, which is the foundation of the people's self-awareness and the sovereignty of the Russian state. Alongside state museum exhibits, private collectors like the Sheptaev brothers also engage in the noble task of preserving historical truth, having created an open-air Military Equipment Museum in the Voronezh region along the southern M4 highway.

History of the Museum's Creation

The military equipment exhibition from the Great Patriotic War opens every year in late spring near the Voronezh village of Kashirskoye, located at the 553 km mark of the federal M-4 "Don" highway, and operates until early autumn. With the onset of winter, the brothers take their exhibits to a workshop in Stary Oskol. Today, the number of replicas of Red Army military machines has exceeded 25.

During the exhibition's operation, it is visited by a large number of people traveling along the "Don" highway, as well as groups of tourists and schoolchildren who come not only to see but also to ride the legendary Soviet tanks and combat vehicles. On average, the exhibition is visited by 100 to 300 people per day. During this time, the brothers live in a summer camp. Assistance in organizing the work is also provided by members of the Voronezh military-patriotic club "Nabat."

Origin of the Idea

Initially, the brothers created their private collection in the village of Arkhangelskoye, whose exhibits became in demand among reenactors and filmmakers. Mikhail Sheptaev even appeared in a cameo role as a military driver in the war film series "Ladoga." The brothers began independently organizing traveling exhibitions in the Belgorod and other regions of Russia. When Alexander Ponamarev, head of the Kashirsky district in the Voronezh region, learned about their collection of military vehicle replicas, he invited the Sheptaevs and their collection to the village of Kashirskoye to introduce children to the original military exhibits. The event was a delight not only for children but also for adults. After this, A. Ponamarev suggested the brothers open a permanent open-air exhibition near the "Don" highway, providing a convenient location for it.

Development Stages

The military equipment exhibition quickly evolved into an open-air museum dedicated to the Great Patriotic War. The brothers' main inspiration and teacher was their father, Valery Panteleimonovich. Today, the museum's core team consists of Alexander and Mikhail Sheptaev, Sergey Alexandrov, and Pavel Chernov. They registered the military-patriotic club "Prokhorovsky Rubizh."

The development of this unique museum was also supported by the administration of the Kashirsky district, the Kashirsky rural settlement, the Kashirsky House of Culture, and the military-patriotic club "149th Rifle Division" from the village of Kashirskoye, the leadership of the Voronezh region, as well as reenactors from the military-patriotic club "Nabat." The museum receives support from the Presidential Grants Fund.

In the open-air Military Equipment Museum today, visitors can not only see replicas of legendary combat vehicles from the Great Patriotic War but also learn a lot about their production and participation in battles during various periods of the 1941-1945 war.

The museum hosts thematic exhibitions and interactive tours, lectures, and reenactments dedicated to different periods of the Great Patriotic War.

Museum Collection

The collection includes over 25 unique replicas of military equipment, all handcrafted by the Sheptaev brothers based on original blueprints in their workshop. The number of exhibits is constantly increasing as Mikhail and Alexander aim to create a complete collection of Red Army military equipment from the Great Patriotic War era. For the 75th anniversary of the Great Victory, they assembled the legendary T-34 tank. In addition to Soviet-produced military vehicles, the brothers also restored several German tanks and American "Willys" vehicles.

Military Equipment Exhibits

A unique light Soviet tank T-70, one of the first assembled by the brothers. It was designed by engineer N.A. Astrov. It was adopted by the Red Army in January 1942. Serial production of the T-70 continued until early 1942.

In 2015, the museum's collection was enriched with the legendary tank T-34, assembled by the brothers for the 75th anniversary of the Great Victory using original blueprints. It is only 15 cm smaller than the original.

The collection also features replicas of:

• the Soviet armored car "BA-64";
• the Soviet multiple rocket launcher "Katyusha", or "BM-13";
• the Soviet command vehicle "GAZ-67";
• the Soviet military all-wheel-drive vehicle "GAZ-64";
• the American army high-mobility vehicle from World War II Willys MB ("Willys");
• the legendary "one-and-a-half-ton" "GAZ-AA", produced at the Gorky Automobile Plant since 1932;
• the Soviet cargo truck "ZIS-5";
• the Soviet heavy motorcycle "M-72";
• the Soviet 45 mm gun.

All exhibits are operational, can be touched, and visitors can climb inside. The organizers even offer rides on them.

Rare and Unique Exhibits

The collection includes unique replicas of the German self-propelled artillery "Hetzer" model 1944, which can drive, and the German medium tank Panzer III, produced from 1938 to 1943. It was the backbone of the Wehrmacht's armored forces.

Interactive and Multimedia Exhibits

During the museum's operation in the summer, interactive camps for schoolchildren and youth are opened, where they can undergo drill and tactical training in real field camp conditions, living in a tent city. They are provided with hot meals, lectures on firearms, and military equipment from the Great Patriotic War era.

Educational Activities

The military-patriotic club "Prokhorovsky Rubizh", together with other military-patriotic organizations, has been conducting patriotic education for schoolchildren since 2012 with the support of the Kashirsky district administration and the leadership of the Voronezh region.

Tours and Lectures

Lectures and tours are conducted for visitors during the exhibition's operation. The military-patriotic club "Prokhorovsky Rubizh" always participates in the nationwide Museum Night, developing excursion programs and lecture courses related to the history of the Red Army and commemorative dates of battles from the Great Patriotic War each year.

Events for Schoolchildren and Students

The museum hosts living history lessons and battle reenactments, in which schoolchildren and students can participate. During such events, attendees fully immerse themselves in the era, studying the weapons, equipment, and lifestyle of the Red Army soldiers.

Events and Activities

The museum regularly hosts various educational and developmental events, inviting children and adults as part of the "Patriotic Education of Citizens" program in collaboration with the VPK "Nabat."

Commemorative Dates and Anniversaries

Information about the planned military-patriotic events for the current year, dedicated to commemorative dates and anniversaries of the Great Patriotic War, is regularly posted on the military-patriotic club "Prokhorovsky Rubizh" website.

Temporary Exhibitions

Information about thematic exhibitions at the Open-Air Military Equipment Museum can be found on the VPK "Prokhorovsky Rubizh" and "Nabat" websites. The museum actively participates in thematic exhibitions dedicated to the feat of the Soviet people in 1941-1945 in the Voronezh region. This page of the Great War's history has remained little studied until recently.

Visiting the Museum

You can visit the Military Equipment Museum on the "Don" highway from May to the end of September.

Hours and Ticket Prices

In summer, the museum operates from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Ticket prices are 450 RUB for adults and 300 RUB for children.

How to Get There

You can reach the Museum from Voronezh by car, public transport, or train. Travel time is from 54 minutes to 1 hour 5 minutes. Travelers heading south on the "Don" highway should reach the 551-kilometer mark. There are parking lots near the Museum close to the villages of Rogachevka and Kashirskoye.

Visitor Tips

To fully immerse yourself in the era of the Great Patriotic War, it is recommended to visit all the exhibits of the exhibition.

The Museum's Contribution to the Cultural Life of the Region

The museum regularly attracts new visitors. Over the years of its operation, the exhibition has been visited by over 100,000 people from various regions of Russia. The unusual exhibition, where exhibits can be touched, attracts tourists from different regions of the Russian Federation traveling south in summer, allowing them to learn more about the battles fought in the Voronezh region in 1941-1944.

Cooperation with Educational and Cultural Institutions

The Military Equipment Museum in the Voronezh region cooperates with military and civilian educational and cultural organizations. Its exhibits participate in reenactments, parades, and filming of war movies. The museum hosts lectures, tours, and interactive courses on patriotic education for the younger generation.

Impact on Tourism and Economy

The open-air military museum annually attracts the attention of a large number of tourists traveling to the sea in summer. After visiting it, many of them specifically stay in the Voronezh region or come to Voronezh to learn more about the history of this Russian region.

Conclusion

The open-air Military Equipment Museum has quickly gained popularity not only among the residents of the region but also guests from other regions of the Russian Federation who wish to connect with the history of the Great Victory of the Soviet state over Nazi Germany.