The Quest
The Discovery
We found old pre-revolutionary maps from the early 19th century depicting a cemetery in the Northern Dvina river delta. The location intrigued us – a forgotten place lost to time.
The Team
I organized this expedition with two fellow researchers: Danil Bugay, Saveliy Byzov. Together, we combined historical knowledge, navigation skills, and determination to reach this remote location.
Navigation Challenge
Using satellite GPS navigation and comparing it with century-old maps, we plotted our route through the intricate delta waterways to find the exact location.
The Journey
Early Morning Departure
We set out at dawn with our boat, historical maps, GPS equipment, and supplies for a full day expedition into the delta.
Shallow Waters
The delta's shallow waterways forced us to push the boat by hand for several kilometers – an exhausting but necessary effort.
GPS Triangulation
Using our satellite navigator and old maps, we carefully triangulated the cemetery's location through the overgrown terrain.
The Discovery
After half a day of travel, we found it – old gravestones hidden beneath moss and forest growth, silent witnesses to history.
Documentation
We documented the chapel foundation and gravestones, photographing inscriptions and measuring the site for future research.
Key Findings
Old Gravestones
Multiple tombstones with visible inscriptions from the late 1800s
Chapel Foundation
Remains of an old chapel structure, matching historical records
Historical Inscriptions
Readable names and dates confirming the pre-revolutionary era
Expedition Gallery
The start
My grandpa's pier
GPS Navigation
Modern technology meeting historical cartography
Old Gravestone
Weathered tombstones covered in moss and time
Delta Waterways
The challenging route through shallow waters
Happy explorer
Me at the discovery site :)
19th Century Map (1828)
The pre-revolutionary map that led us here