Paul Gilbert | Nicholas II

The truth about Russia’s much slandered Tsar

This year marks the 157th anniversary of the birth of Emperor Nicholas II on 19th May [O.S. 6th May] 1868 and the107th anniversary of his death and martyrdom on 17th July 1918.

In recognition of these historic dates, I am reaching out to friends and supporters for donations to help support my research on the life and reign of Nicholas II, and in aid of my personal mission to clear the name of Russia’s much slandered Tsar.

There are many web sites, blogs and Facebook pages dedicated to the Romanovs, however, I work very hard searching Russian archival and media sources to bring something new to the table every day, including articles and news stories – from Russian archival and media sources – on Nicholas II and his family, the Romanov dynasty, their palaces, exhibitions + photos, videos and more.

Every dollar collected goes toward the acquisition and translation of documents, letters and diaries from Russian archival sources. In addition are the first English translations of articles researched by a new generation of Russian historians, which challenge the popular negative assessment of Nicholas II, which prevails to this day.

Your donation also helps offset the cost of maintenance of my blog: Nicholas II. Emperor. Tsar. Saint, and the organization and promotion of Romanov themed events, such as the 2nd International Nicholas II Conference and other events.

If you enjoy all the articles, news, photos, and videos, please help support my work in the coming year ahead by making a donation.

CLICK HERE TO MAKE A DONATION IN US DOLLARS

CREDIT CARDS and PAYPAL ACCEPTED
Donations as little as $5 are much appreciated, and there is NO obligation!

Thank you for your consideration

NEW BOOK – Sovereign No. 15 (Summer 2025)

Posted on May 30 by Paul Gilbert

*You can order this title from most AMAZON outlets, including
the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia,
France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden and Japan
*Note: prices are quoted in local currencies

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $20.00 USD

English. Large format 8-1/2″ x 11-1/2″. 130 pages. 131 Black & White photos

The No. 15 Summer 2025 issue of SOVEREIGN features more than 20 articles about Russia’s last Tsar, his family, the Romanov dynasty and the history of Imperial Russia. These articles have been researched and written by independent historian and author Paul Gilbert. His works are based on new research from Russian archival and media sources.

In an effort to preserve his 30+ years of research, the author has reproduced a selection of the nearly 900 articles he has written for his blog. They are made available in a printed format for the first time. The author has updated many of the articles in this issue with additional information and photos. In addition, this issue features one new First English translation.

The No. 15 issue features the following 23 articles:

[1] Film Review: Nicholas and Alexandra

[2] Smoking: the Tsar’s bad habit

[3] St. Catherine’s Chapel. The Final Resting Place of Nicholas II

[4] What were Lenin’s plans on Nicholas II’s fate?

[5] The “Imperial Palace” of Emperor Nicholas II in Paris – October 1896

[6] The hidden wealth of the Bolshevik devil Yakov Sverdlov

[7] In 1897 Nicholas II approved the Winter Palace to be painted red

[8] Romanov archives of Charles Sydney Gibbes

[9] The Tsar’s Railway Pavilion in Nizhny Novgorod

[10] Ministers of Foreign Affairs During the Reign of Nicholas II

[11] Nicholas II’s little known third brother: Alexander (1869-1870)

[12] Nicholas II’s Diaries 1894-1918

[13] God, Save the Tsar! Боже, Царя храни!

[14] Emperor Nicholas II Foundation Marks 4th Anniversary

[15] Serov Portrait of Nicholas II to be exhibited in London

[16] Faithful to the Tsar and His Family: Pierre Gilliard (1879-1962)

[17] Portrait of Nicholas II returned to Russia from America

[18] What is Nicholas II’s correct date of birth?

[19] New museum dedicated to Nicholas II and his family opens in Pskov region

[20] Reconstruction of the Imperial Train Pavilion at Tsarskoye Selo

[21] The human side of the Tsar

[22] Father Vasiliev: Confessor to the Imperial Family

[23] Obituary: Zurab Konstantinovich Tsereteli (1934-2025)

***

Back issues of SOVEREIGN

No. 14 Winter 2025

No. 13 Summer 2024

No. 12 Winter 2024

NOTE: back issues of Nos. 1 to 12 are now out of print.
Second-hand copies are available on AMAZAON eBay.

NEW BOOK – ‘The Lost World of Imperial Russia’- Volume II

Posted on April 14, 2025 by Paul Gilbert

*This title is available from AMAZON in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia,
France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden and Japan

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $35.00 USD

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE HARD COVER EDITION @ $50.00 USD

Large 8-1/2″ x 11″ format, 240 pages, featuring
400+ black & white photos

“Keeping the memories of Old Russia alive!”

This second volume of The Lost World of Imperial Russia, features more than 400 additional vintage photographs of architectural gems, people and places of the Russian Empire during the reign of Emperor Nicholas II, between 1894 to 1917. This second volume complements Volume I, which was published in September 2022.

Imperial palaces, palatial mansions, seaside villas, suburban dachas, churches, government buildings, all of which reflect a variety of architectural styles, and many which reflect Imperial Russia itself are featured. In addition, are photographs depicting daily life, social activities, life in the Russian Imperial Army and Navy, and much more.

Like Volume One, this second volume is a photographic record of a lost world, one of great historical value in our understanding and appreciation of the Russian Empire during the reign of Russia’s last Tsar.

Volume II is available in both hard cover and paperback editions, 240 pages, richly illustrated with more than 400 vintage black and white photos! AVAILABLE exclusively from AMAZON.

COVER PHOTO: Andrei Alexeevich Kudinov (1852–1915), standing at the Emperor’s Porch at the Feodorovsky Cathedral in St. Petersburg in January 1914. This is probably one of the last photographs taken of him before his death in June 1915. Kudinov served as bodyguard to Grand Duke Alexander Alexandrovich [future Emperor Alexander III]. In December 1878, he was assigned to Grand Duchess Maria Feodorovna [future Empress Maria Feodorovna]; he stayed at this post when she became Empress in 1881 and continued until his death. Photo by Karl Bulla.

***

THE LOST WORLD OF IMPERIAL RUSSIA
Volume I – Published in September 2022

*This title is available from AMAZON in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia,
France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden and Japan

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $35.00 USD

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE HARD COVER EDITION @ $50.00 USD

Large 8-1/2″ x 11″ format, 242 pages, featuring
400+ black & white photos

A special gift from the the Diaconești Monastery

Posted on April 8, 2025 by Paul Gilbert

Today – 8th April 2025 – I received the most wonderful and unexpected surprise from the nuns at the Diaconești Monastery in Moldavia, Romania. This beautiful colour drawing and personalised inscription was gifted to me by Sisters Seraphima, Ovidiu and Ioana in recognition for my helping to promote the English language edition of their book The True Story of the Romanov Family, which was published last year by the monastery’s publishing division.

The illustrations were hand painted by the nuns, and framed in a large wooden diptych. Each panel is covered with glass. The diptych has hinges, which allow it to be closed like a book and secured with a clasp.

On the left side of the diptych, Emperor Nicholas II and Empress Alexandra Feodorovna are depicted in their Coronation robes and crowns, standing under the Coat-of-Arms of the Russian Empire. The Tsar is depicted holding the Imperial Sceptre and Orb of the Russian Coronation Regalia.

In a separate letter, Sister Seraphima wrote:

“I sincerely believe that it was the Imperial Family themselves who sent you this gift through us, as a token of gratitude for the effort and love you have shown toward them. Our gift was meant, above all, as a gesture of appreciation for your dedication. But of course, it was also a sign of our thanks for helping promote our book—because it is clear that we share the same purpose.

“We chose the Coronation scene specifically for this gift. You may already know that the illustration you received is not only an original one from our book, but also a reproduction of an actual invitation used at the time of Their Majesties’ Coronation. We picked this image because we knew you already own the coronation book, and we felt it would be a fitting complement.”

On the right side of the diptych, under the Holy icon is a personalized inscription, which upon reading moved me to tears. It reads . . .

Dear Paul

Through tireless work, so true and bright,
You share the Romanovs’ gentle light.
Their legacy, through time restored,
In every tale and treasured word.

With gratitude, we warmly say,
Your light still shines along the way.
The past preserved, the story lives,
A gift of love, your heart still gives.

With gratitude,
Sister Seraphima,
Ovidiu and Ioana

Publishing House Bonifaciu Romania

I would like to note, that my more than 30 years of research and writing are all part of my personal mission to help clear the name of Russia’s much slandered Tsar and his family. While I have never aspired for awards or honours, I cannot deny that it is truly humbling to receive recognition for my efforts by means of a gift such as this.

I believe that it is very important for me to show my support for any event, exhibition, documentary and publishing project which present not only the truth about Emperor Nicholas II and his family, but also keep their memory alive. These are the reasons why I helped to promote The True Story of the Romanov Family on my blog, social media and to those who subscribe to my bi-weekly news updates. This beautifully illustrated graphic study is unique, and a must read for any one who shares an interest in the Holy Royal Martyrs.

CLICK on the LINK below the image to read more about the book The True Story of the Romanov Family, which is now available on AMAZON.

BOOK DESCRIPTION and ORDER
‘The True Story of the Romanov Family’

The Lost World of Imperial Russia: The Russian Empire During the Reign of Emperor Nicholas II

Posted on August 15, 2024 by Paul Gilbert

*This title is available from AMAZON in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia,
France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden and Japan

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $35.00 USD

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE HARD COVER EDITION @ $50.00 USD

Large 8-1/2″ x 11″ format, 242 pages, featuring
400+ black & white photos

“Keeping the memories of Old Russia alive!”

This richly illustrated pictorial is a celebration of the beauty and splendour of a lost world: Imperial Russia during the reign of Emperor Nicholas II, from 1894 to 1917.

More than 400+ black and white photographs showcase Imperial residences, country estates and manor houses, dachas, churches, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, historic events, people and much more.

The Lost World of Imperial Russia, is a remarkable photographic record of one of the world’s greatest empires—one that both attracts and eludes description.

While many of the architectural gems of Imperial Russia have survived to the present day, many others have been lost to history: revolution, civil war, two world wars and 70+ years of Soviet dogma have each taken their toll on Russia’s rich architectural heritage. Many of the photographs in this album remain the only evidence of their existence.

Click HERE to read a REVIEW of this book by Mikhail Smirnov, published on the Russian Faith blog.

***

The Lost World of Imperial Russia. Volume II
NOW AVAILABLE FROM AMAZON

***

Paul Gilbert’s Romanov Bookshop on AMAZON

I have published nearly 30 titles to date through AMAZON – featuring one of the largest selections of books on Nicholas II, the Romanov dynasty and the history of Imperial Russia.

Please CLICK on the BANNER or LINK above to review my current selection of titles in hardcover, paperback and ebook editions. Listings provide a full description for each title, pricing and a Look inside feature.

Update on the next Nicholas II Conference

Posted on August 7, 2024 by Paul Gilbert

I continue to receive emails and messages from people enquiring about another Nicholas II Conference. First of all, I would like to say how grateful I am for the interest and support shown for this event. In answer to all these queries, I can say that YES!, I am intend planning on organizing and hosting a second conference. I can also confirm that several discussions on the proposed event have already taken place.

Once this dreadful war is over, I have every intention of hosting a 2nd International Nicholas II Conference, which will most likely be held in the UK.

As some of you may recall, my initial plan to host the conference in May 2021 at the Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY, was cancelled due to the COVID pandemic.

My second attempt to host the conference in September 2023 at St. John’s Orthodox Church in Colchester, England was also cancelled, due to the outbreak of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine.

So, will I have better luck the third time?

The number of people who have followed my work, since the 1st conference in October 2018, has grown substantially, especially in the UK, therefore, I am anticipating an even larger number of attendees at the next conference.

Stay tuned for further updates on dates, venue, speakers, topics, and much more.

PHOTO: this is the first of two 6-ft. banners, that I have
designed for the 2nd International Nicholas II Conference

***

1st International Nicholas II Conference
St. John’s Orthodox Church, Colchcester, England
27th October 2018

PHOTO: researcher and author Paul Gilbert presenting one of his two lectures on Nicholas II, at St. John’s Orthodox Church in Colchester, England. 27th October 2018

The 1st International Nicholas II Conference was timed to the 150th anniversary of the birth of Emperor Nicholas II in 1868, and the 100th anniversary of his death and martyrdom in 1918.

More than 100 people from nearly a dozen countries attended the event, which featured 5 speakers, who presented 7 lectures on the life and reign of Russia’s last Tsar, including Paul Gilbert, Archpriest Andrew Philips (ROCOR), Nikolai Krasnov, authors Frances Welch and Marilyn Swezey presented seven papers on Nicholas II.

In addition, the Grand Duchess Elizabeth Romanov Society UK provided a small exhibit, which generated much interest among those attending. Two stalls were set up during the conference, which offer an interesting selection of new book titles for sale. A light lunch was provided for those attending.

Click HERE to read more about the 1st International Nicholas II Conference in Colchester, England, which includes photos from the event.

Books on the life and reign of Emperor Nicholas II (1868-1918)

Posted on May 19, 2024 by Paul Gilbert

PHOTO: Portrait of Emperor Nicholas II, by Russian artist Vladimir Nikolaev

On this day – *19th (O.S. 6th) May 1868 – Emperor Nicholas II was born in the Alexander Palace at Tsarskoye Selo. * the New Style Gregorian calendar is now 13 days ahead of the Old Style Julian calendar.

On Sunday 19th May 2024, the Russian Orthodox Church marks the 156th anniversary of the birth of Tsesarevich and Grand Duke Nicholas Alexandrovich, who was born on the day of Job the Long-suffering.

In honour of this historic date, I am pleased to offer 18 books about the life and reign of Nicholas II. Each of them reflect my personal mission to clear the name of Russia’s much slandered Tsar. * This page will be updated as new titles become available.

Please note, the entire proceeds from the sale of each book, help fund my research, including the costly expense of translating documents from Russian archival and media sources.

Thank you for your interest and support of my work.

PAUL GILBERT (Retired)

***

BOOKS BY PAUL GILBERT

NICHOLAS II. PORTRAITS
by Paul Gilbert

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ORDER FROM AMAZON

HARD COVER EDITION – PRICE $50.00

PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $40.00

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Nicholas II. Portraits explores a century of portraits of Russia’s last emperor and tsar, through the eyes of pre-revolutionary and contemporary Russian, and foreign artists.

Originally published in 2019, with 140 pages with 175 black and white photos, this new expanded edition features more pages and more photographs: 180 pages + more than 200 photos, including 185 FULL COLOUR and 30 black & white! The colour photographs really bring the many ceremonial portraits of Nicholas II to life.

In addition, are many portraits painted during his reign by both Russian and foreign artists, as well as those by contemporary Russian artists. My book also features a small section of portraits of the Tsar with his family.

Large format 8-1/2″ x 11″ hard cover and paperback editions, with 178 pages + richly illustrated with more than 200 Colour and black & white photographs.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF RUSSIA’S LAST TSAR
by Paul Gilbert

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $25.00 USD

English. 242 pages with 225 black & white photos

Aside from his many duties as God’s anointed Emperor and Tsar of All the Russia’s, Nicholas II took on many other roles from one day to the next: a dutiful husband and loving father, a devoted son and brother, a friend, a sportsman, a diplomat, an ambassador, a dedicated military leader, a devout Orthodox Christian, among others.

This richly illustrated pictorial explores the day-to-day duties of Russia’s last monarch. It is divided into six sections: the Tsar and His Family; Sports, Leisure and Holidays; the Tsar and the Church; the Tsar and Russia; the War Years; and the Tsar Under House Arrest. Each section features full-size historic images which reflect his day to day duties and activities. In total, this unique album includes more than 200 photographs from the author’s private collection.

*The publication of this album is timed to coincide with the 155th anniversary of the birth of Emperor Nicholas II on 19th May [O.S. 6th May] 1868 and the 105th anniversary of the death and martyrdom [17th July 1918].

THE CORONATION OF TSAR NICHOLAS II
Compiled and Edited by Paul Gilbert

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HARD COVER EDITION – PRICE $29.99

PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $18.99

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Six eyewitness accounts of the crowning of Russia’s last tsar with more than 200 rare vintage photographs & illustrations

The pomp and pageantry surrounding the Coronation of Nicholas II is told through the eye-witness accounts of six people who attended this historic event at Moscow, held over a three week period from 6th (O.S.) to 26th (O.S.) May 1896.

Hard cover and paperback editions, with 456 pages + more than 200 black & white photographs

NICHOLAS II: RUSSIA’S LAST ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN MONARCH
Edited by Paul Gilbert

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PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $9.99

E-BOOK EDITION – PRICE $9.99

BOOK DESCRIPTION

This book is not only for Orthodox and non-Orthodox persons, but for any one who shares an interest in the life, death, and martyrdom of the Holy Tsar-Martyr Nicholas II.

An illustrated Introduction by independent researcher Paul Gilbert explores the piety of Nicholas II, and his devotion to the Russian Orthodox Church, which reached its fullest development and power, during his 22-year reign.

This book further examines the trials and tribulations the Tsar endured, which later led to his canonization by the Russian Orthodox Church.

Paperback edition, with 134 pages + 23 black & white photographs

MOST PIOUS TSAR
Icons, Frescoes and Holy Images of Tsar-Martyr Nicholas II
by Paul Gilbert

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE HARD COVER @ $50.00 USD

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $40.00 USD

English. Large 7″ x 10″ format. 162 pages with 132 photos in FULL COLOUR

In 1938, Russia’s last tsar Nicholas II was canonized by the Serbian Orthodox Church. On 1st November 1981, he was canonized as a new martyr by the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR). On 20th August 2000, after 8 years of study, he was canonized as a passion bearer by the Moscow Patriarchate, although the people had already been venerating him as a saint for a long time, and this canonization was simply a confirmation of a fact that already existed by itself.

Since these historic dates, icons of Russia’s last Tsar have been installed in Orthodox churches across Russia and around the world. In addition home icons have been mass produced and sold for veneration by Orthodox Christians.

This book will not only appeal to Orthodox and non-Orthodox persons, but for any one who shares an interest in icons and iconography. This book also includes a Prayer and Akathist to the Holy Martyred Tsar. The highlight of this book, however, are the 130+ colour photographs of icons, frescoes and holy images depicting the Holy Royal Martyr Nicholas

NICHOLAS II
News from Russian Media & Archival Sources
by Paul Gilbert

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $20.00 USD

English. Large 8-1/2″ x 11″ format, 256 pages, 300+ black & white photos

In this book, you will find more than 130 articles and news stories about exhibitions, new monuments, portraits, polls on Nicholas II’s popularity in post-Soviet Russia, updates on the restoration of the Alexander Palace, events marking the 150th anniversary of the birth of Nicholas II and the 100th anniversary of his death and martyrdom, the Russian Orthodox Church and the Ekaterinburg remains and much more.

These articles and news stories were originally published in Sovereign (2015-2020) and Royal Russia (2011-2020). Both of these periodicals are no longer published, the back issues out of print, therefore, I am pleased to offer these important materials in one concise volume. They are complemented with more than 300 black and white photographs, many of which have never been published in any Western newspaper, magazine or book. Each article has been sourced from Russian media and archival sources, and translated into English.

While this collection of articles and news stories, may not appeal to every one, it will prove a valuable research tool for those studying the life and reign of Nicholas II, particularly as he is perceived in modern-day Russia.

Proceedings of the 1st International Nicholas II Conference
by Paul Gilbert

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $30.00 USD

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE HARD COVER EDITION @ $40.00 USD

BOOK DESCRIPTION

In the autumn of 2018, people from nearly a dozen countries gathered in Colchester, England for a conference marking the 150th anniversary of the birth and the 100th anniversary of the death martyrdom of Russia’s last tsar Nicholas II.

Five speakers, including Paul Gilbert, Archpriest Andrew Philips (ROCOR), Nikolai Krasnov, authors Frances Welch and Marilyn Swezey presented seven papers on Nicholas II.

Topics included “A Century of Treason, Cowardice and Lies,” “Why Nicholas II is a Saint in the Russian Orthodox Church,” “Nicholas II and the Sacredness of a Monarchy,” “Nicholas II in Post-Soviet Russia,” and several more.

The original edition of these proceedings published in 2018 is now out of print. This new revised and updated edition of include three additional articles, plus a comprehensive bibliography featuring more than 100 English-language titles on the life, reign and era of Russia’s much slandered Tsar.

Large format 8-1/2″ x 11″ hard cover and paperback editions, 136 pages +50 COLOUR and black & white photos

TSAR’S DAYS: JOURNEY TO EKATERINBURG
by Paul Gilbert

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HARD COVER EDITION – PRICE $40.00

PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $25.00

BOOK DESCRIPTION

On 17th July 2018, independent researcher and writer Paul Gilbert travelled to Ekaterinburg, to take part in the events marking the 100th anniversary of the Tsar’s death and martyrdom.

In his own words and photographs, the author shares his experiences and impressions of this historic event, which include visits to the Church on the Blood, Ganina Yama, Porosenkov Log, the Patriarchal Liturgy, exhibitions, and much more.

Gilbert’s solemn journey to the Urals allowed him to experience history in the making, and to honour the memory of the Holy Royal Martyrs, a century after their death and martyrdom.

Large format 8-1/2″ x 11″ hard cover and paperback editions, 152 pages + 200 COLOUR PHOTOS, 65 of which were taken by the author.

SOVEREIGN No. 12 WINTER 2024
by Paul Gilbert

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $20.00 USD

English. Large format 8-1/2″ x 11-1/2″. 130 pages. 114 Black & White photos

I am pleased to offer the first issue of my popular magazine Sovereign: The Life and Reign of Emperor Nicholas II, to be published in 5 years! Sovereign No. 12 – the Winter 2024 issue is now available through AMAZON outlets around the world.

The No. 12 issue, features 17 articles, and richly illustrated with more than 100 photographs, English text. The following articles have been reproduced from my blog, and presented in a printed format for the very first time:

[1] How Boris Yeltsin justified the demolition of the Ipatiev House

[2] Doomed to Resurrection: Is it Possible to Resurrect the Ipatiev House?

[3] The Fate of Nikolai Nikolaevich Ipatiev (1869-1938)

[4] Then they repented of slandering the Tsar . . .

[5] The myth of Nicholas II’s indifference to the Khodynka tragedy

[6] Nicholas II’s Private Apartments In the Winter Palace

[7] Nicholas II, the Union of the Russian People and the Black Hundreds

[8] Imperial Railway Pavilion at Tsarskoye Selo is being restored

[9] The ghost of Anna Anderson continues to haunt us

[10] Nicholas’s national education Project for Russia

[11] The Russian Imperial Award System 1894-1917

[12] How the Orthodox Church supported The overthrow of the monarchy

[13] “There are still many conjectures surrounding the death of Grand Duchess R+Elizabeth”

[14] Lost and found: Romanov family photo album found in Siberia

[15] The Charity of the Holy Tsar Nicholas II

[16] Russia’s last Tsar through Serbian eye

[17] Russia after Putin: Would he restore the monarchy?

NOTE: The No. 13 ussye of Sovereign is schdeduled for publication in July 2024

BOOKS BY OTHER AUTHORS

TSAR NICHOLAS II
by Andrei G. Elchaninov

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $14.99 USD

English. 5-1/2″ x 8-1/2″ format. 194 pages with 25 photos

This authorized account of Emperor Nicholas II by Major-General Andrei Georgievich Elchaninov (1868-1918), is an unprecedented biography of a living tsar. It was originally published in 1913, to coincide with the 300th anniversary of the Romanov dynasty. The author served as a professor of military art in the General Staff Academy in St. Petersburg, he later served in the suite of Tsar Nicholas II.

Nicholas II reviewed and corrected the proofs himself in January 1913. He made changes to the text, and requested the removal of sentences describing the Tsesarevich Alexei’s illness.

Elchaninov gathered considerable material for the twelve chapters about Nicholas II’s personal life based on observations and impressions. The first chapters describe Russia’s last Tsar as a caring, devoted and loving husband and father. The remaining chapters focus on his relationship with his government, the church, the army, the Russian people, and the policies which he pursued during the first 18 years of his reign.

Written before the First World War and the 1917 Revolution. Elchaninov writes in glowing patriotic language portraying Nicholas II as an indefatigable “Imperial worker” in the service of Russia’s best interests and the “Sovereign father” of the Russian people.

In addition to Elchaninov’s biography on the Tsar, this new edition features an expanded introduction by independent researcher Paul Gilbert, 25 black and white photographs, and three comprehensive appendices: a chronology of events during the reign of Nicholas II (1894-1917); 100 facts about Nicholas II and the many reforms he made during his reign, and a bibliography of more than 100 English language books written over the past century on Russia’s last Tsar.

This book is an excellent resource tool for any one interested in Russia’s last Tsar!

DEAREST MAMA . . . DARLING NICKY:
Letters Between Emperor Nicholas II and His Mother
Empress Maria Feodorovna 1879-1917

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PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $13.99

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Written between the years 1879, when Nicky was a little boy, and 1917, after his abdication, this collection of more than 200 letters are a revelation of the personalities of the Emperor and his Empress mother. They were never part of the imperial archives but the cherished possession of both correspondents, carried with them wherever they went. At the outbreak of the revolution, the letters were confiscated by the Soviets.

Paperback edition. 246 pages.

OF BYGONE DAYS
Letters Between Emperor Nicholas II and His Mother
The Memoirs of an Aide-de-Camp to
the Emperor Nichoas II
by Sergei S. Fabritsky

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English. 214 pages, 10 black & white photos

First English translation with introduction and notes by William Lee

NOTE: The first Russian-lanaguage edition of Fabritsky’s memories was published in Berlin in 1926. The first English-language edition of Fabritsky’s memoirs was published in Canada in 2016. This title has been out of print for many years, so I am delighted to offer this new edition.

“The time I spent with Their Majesties – over the course of many years and under varied circumstances – will always be the source of my most precious memories, and I am very happy to be able to share those memories now with a wide public. I hope at least to give an absolutely truthful account of what I saw and heard” – Semyon S. Fabritsky. 1926

Semyon Semyonovich Fabritsky (1874-1941) had a fascinating career during the twilight years of Imperial Russia. He began his naval career in the very first days of the reign of Emperor Nicholas II.

In 1909, Fabritsky was personally appointed Aide-de-Camp by the Emperor himself, a position he served with immense pride and devotion.

During his service to Nicholas II, Fabritsky earned both the trust and friendship of the Emperor. Through his often uninterrupted contact with Russia’s last sovereign and observing him at all hours and under a variety of conditions, Fabritsky was able to form a clear picture of Nicholas II and his family, through his own personal eye-witness observations.

He also served aboard the Imperial yachts, partaking in holidays with the Emperor and his family to the Crimea and the Finnish skerries. He shares interesting details and anecdotes about the Alexandria, Polar Star, and Standart.

This book will also be of great interest to any one with an interest to the Russian Imperial Yachts and the Russian Imperial Navy.

Fabritsky provides great insight to the treachery, cowardice, and deceit which prevailed every where. He acknowledges ministers and generals who were either unworthy of their posts or unfit for them. Sadly, it was these men who surrounded Nicholas II during his 22+ year reign, who contributed to the downfall of monarchy and the destruction of the Russian Empire in 1917.

LAST YEARS OF THE COURT AT TSARSKOE SELO – 2 Volumes
by Alexander Spiridovitch

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VOLUME I – 1906-1910. PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $18.99

VOLUME II – 1910-1914. PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $18.99

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Originally published in French in 1928, this is the FIRST ENGLISH LANGUAGE EDITION of both volumes – a MUST read for any one interested in the life and reign of Emperor Nicholas II.

Alexander Ivanovich Spiridovitch (1873-1952) was handpicked by Emperor Nicholas II to serve as his personal security chief from 1906-1916. He was also responsible for the security of the tsar’s residences.

Volume I – 1906-1910, with 458 pages + 59 black & white photographs

Volume II – 1910-1914, with 480 pages + 65 black & white photographs

NICHOLAS II and the BRITISH MONARCHS
by Coryne Hall

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English. 164 pages, 36 black & white photos

Romanov historian and royal expert Coryne Hall writes about the relationships between Emperor Nicholas II with the three British monarchs who ruled during his 22-year reign.

The author has researched the relationships between Russia’s last Tsar with those of Queen Victoria – from 1894 to 1901; King Edward VII – from 1901 to 1910; and King George V – from 1910 to 1917. Her research is complemented with letters, diary entries and photographs.

The four essays presented in this volume were originally published in four successive issues of Sovereign, the semi-annual publication dedicated to the study of the life and reign of Emperor Nicholas II. They are presented here for the first time in one volume.

EMPEROR NICHOLAS II AS I KNEW HIM
by Sir John Hanbury Williams

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PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $12.99

BOOK DESCRIPTION

In this compelling and intimate series of diary entries, originally published in 1922, Major-General Sir John Hanbury-Williams (1859-1946) depicts Nicholas II “not as history knows him, but as he knew him.”

Paperback edition. 196 pages.

MEMOIRS OF THE PAGES TO TSAR NICHOLAS II
by Dr. Thomas E. Berry

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HARDCOVER EDITION – PRICE $22.99

PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $14.99

BOOK DESCRIPTION

The young men of the Corps des Pages, served Nicholas II and his family. This collection of 18 memoirs give eyewitness accounts of weddings, baptisms, Court functions and other events at the Imperial Court between 1894-1917. The last part of the book is devoted to the sad events of the Revolution and the end of the Corps des Pages.

Hardcover and Paperback editions. 258 pages

LAST DAYS AT TSARSKOE SELO
by Count Paul Benckendorff

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E-BOOK EDITION – PRICE $9.99

PAPERBACK EDITION – PRICE $12.99

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Count Paul Benckendorff (1853-1921), belonged to the closest circle of Emperor Nicholas II. Following the collapse of the monarchy in 1917, Benkendorff and his wife shared the captivity of the Imperial Family at Tsarskoye Selo.

Benkendorff’s narrative provides a detailed eye-witness account of the Tsar’s abdication, his transfer to Tsarskoe Selo and his daily life in the Alexander Palace, where he was held under house arrest from February to August 1917.

Throughout his memoirs, Benckendorff characterizes Nicholas II and his wife Alexandra Feodorovna as courageous, gracious, and poised despite their obvious concern for their family.

Due to his age and poor health, Benckendorff was unable to follow the Emperor and his Imperial Family’s into exile to Tobolsk. One of the very few who were faithful, he parted with his Sovereign for the last time on 14th (O.S. 1st) August 1917.

Paperback and eBook editions. 168 pages + 40 black & white photographs

My Nicholas II blog marks 5th anniversary and 1 million hits

Posted on January 22, 2024 by Paul Gilbert

Today – 22nd January – marks the 5th anniversary of the launch of my blog NICHOLAS II. EMPEROR. TSAR. SAINT, dedicated to clearing the name of Russia’s much slandered monarch.

Over this past weekend, my blog marked a major milestone, as the numbeer of hits it has received over the last 5 years sur[assed the 1 MILLION mark!

To date, I have researched, written and published more than 700 articles on my blog, making it the largest English-language site dedicated to the study of the life and reign of Russia’s last Tsar. My articles are based primarily on new research from Russian archival and media sources.

My Nicholas II blog also features more than 2,000 photographs, including historic black and white photos of Nicholas II, his family and Imperial Russia. These are complemented with contemporary colour photos of palace restorations, exhibitions, and much more. My blog also features more than 100 videos, ranging from vintage newsreels, documentaries and full length films,

In addition, I announce and promote new books on Nicholas II and the Romanov dynasty by other authros, as well as books which I have researched and written, as well as the recent relaunch of my popular semi-annual magazine SOVEREIGN.

Please note, that proceeds from the sale of books from my ROMANOV BOOKSHOP on AMAZON help support my research, including the cost of translating documents from Russian archival and media sources.

Take advantage of the search engine on my blog. Please refer to the ‘SEARCH‘ option located at the ottom of the page, which will allow you to explore nearly 200 categories. Or you can scroll down further to review the list of categories found on this blog.

In closting, I would like to take this opportunity to thank those of you who have followed and supported my work over the past 5 years. I look forward to bringing you many more full-length articles, news stories, photos and videos, on Nicholas II and his family, the Romanov dynasty, and the history of Imperial Russia for many more years to come,

Merry Christmas to my Orthodox readers

Posted on January 7, 2024 by Paul Gilbert

January 7

Today – 7th January – Orthodox Christians around the world
celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ

Merry Christmas to my Orthodox friends!

Счастливого Рождества моим православным друзьям!

Срећан Божић мојим православним пријатељима!

Καλά Χριστούγεννα στους Ορθόδοξους φίλους μου!

PAUL GILBERT
7 January 2020

AUCTION SALE: 300+ photos of Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna

Posted on August 16, 2023 by Paul Gilbert

PHOTO: a collection of 332 black and white photographs from one of the private photo albums belonging to Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna are for sale from my collection. CLICK on the image to enlarge – PG

As many of you know, I will be moving back to England in the summer of 2025. As a result, I am forced to sell not only my furniture and other possessions, I have also made the very difficult decision to part with some of my Romanov treasures.

Back in 1998-99 I went to visit a man living in Rosedale, an historic and very affluent residential area in Toronto, Ontario. I had been invited by historian and author Patricia Phenix, who was researching for her book Olga Romanov: Russia’s Last Grand Duchess [Published in 1999 by Viking-Penguin]. The gentleman had a collection of photographs copied from one of the personal photograph albums belonging to Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna [1882-1960]. He was kind enough to show us the photographs, and even agreed to allow us to make copies.

Aside from the original album, ONLY three sets of these photographs exist. We had two sets made – a great expense at time – one for Pat, the other for myself. We returned the original set to the gentleman in Rosedale, who several years later “loaned” them to Olga Kulikovsky-Romanov, who used them for the exhibitions of Grand Duchess Olga’s paintings, which she was organizing in Russia. She never returned the photographs to the gentleman in Rosedale.

The photos depict Grand Duchess Olga and her family in Russia, Denmark and Canada, where she died on 24th November 1960. The photos from her Russian years include her mother Empress Maria Feodorovna, her brothers Tsar Nicholas II and Grand Duke Mikhail Alexandrovich, as well as her sister Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna.

This lot consists of a total of 332 black and white photographs. The quality and clarity of each photo varies from one image to the next. The photographs are copies of those from Olga’s photo album. The fate of the photo album is unknown, but is believed to have been sold at auction.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS AN AUCTION SALE: I am offering this collection of 332 photos to the highest bidder. I have set the bidding price at $150 USD. I invite those of you who are interested to send me a private e-mail [royalrussia@yahoo.com], stating your highest bid. The winner will be notified by e-mail on Tuesday, 5th September 2023. Payment can be made by credit card or PayPal. All sales are final.