The museum reflects the rich history of its city. In the 17th century, Sevsk served as a border fortress, protecting the southwestern frontiers of the Moscow state. In 1605, a famous battle took place near the city at the village of Dobrynichi, which is depicted in a painting by artist M. Reshetnyov. The ancient history section features numerous exhibits on religious themes, including icons, church books, and chains. In the 17th century, two monasteries operated in the territory of Sevsk. In 1778, the Sevsk Spiritual Seminary was founded. In 1988, the largest natural site of mammoth bones in Europe was discovered in Sevsk. Currently, the museum displays mammoth bones and an exact replica of a baby mammoth skeleton.