In pre-revolutionary Russia, charity was an important part of societal life, understood by all, from the royal family to merchants and peasants. However, over the past hundred years, many outstanding philanthropists have been forgotten, including Prince Peter Georgievich of Oldenburg, the nephew of Nicholas I and a well-known patron.

Peter Georgievich was born on August 26, 1812, to Prince Peter Friedrich Georg of Oldenburg and Grand Duchess Ekaterina Pavlovna. After the early death of his father, he found himself in Russia, where he was raised at the royal court. Receiving an excellent education, he absorbed the traditions of Russian philanthropy from a young age.

In 1830, the prince finally moved to Russia. Nicholas I warmly welcomed his nephew, appointing him to serve in the Preobrazhensky Regiment and in various positions. Peter Georgievich proved to be an active young man. In 1835, thanks to his efforts, the Imperial School of Law was opened. A year later, he married a Nassau princess and continued his charitable work. He was involved in addressing women's education and helped establish the first Russian society of nursing sisters. His contributions were numerous.

Until his death, Peter Georgievich remained active and beneficial to people. He passed away on May 14, 1881, and was modestly buried at the cemetery of the Sergiev Monastery. After the revolution, the cemetery was desecrated and destroyed. The destruction was halted in 1941 but completed in the 1960s. Today, a memorial plaque with names, including that of Prince Peter Georgievich, has been installed at the site of the former cemetery. In 2012, on the 200th anniversary of his birth, a bust of him was erected nearby.