In a significant cultural initiative, the National Museum of Rokiškis is set to commemorate the contributions of notable Lithuanian statesmen by planting an avenue of oak trees.This project, inspired by the upcoming 145th birthdays of influential figures such as Mykol Romeris adn Antanas Tumėnis, aims to honor their legacies with an exhibition and educational activities scheduled for April 25. Laima Skardžienė, head of the museum’s History Department, emphasized the importance of recognizing the past impact of these leaders from the Rokiškis region, where eight governments were led by locals during inter-war Lithuania. Each oak will feature a plaque detailing the achievements of these statesmen, creating an open space for public reflection and festivity during national holidays. The museum also plans to highlight the Tyzenhaus family’s significant anniversaries later this year, further enriching the cultural narrative of the area.The Tyzenhauz family, renowned for their contributions to European history, continues to be celebrated in Rokiškis, Lithuania, as the community honors the legacy of Count Konstantinas Tyzenhaus and his influential sister, Sofija Tyzenhauzaitė. Konstantinas, a prominent zoologist and patron of the arts, is remembered for his extensive ornithological research and the commissioning of a significant 1848 map, now a prized exhibit at the Rokiškis Regional Museum. Sofija, a trailblazer in literature, was the first woman from historical Lithuania to write in French, and her novels are noted for their engaging style and factual basis. The community is also gearing up for a week-long celebration of Czech organist Rudolf Lyman’s 170th birthday, featuring musical tributes and educational activities at the music school he founded. As Rokiškis reflects on its rich cultural heritage, it also commemorates the upcoming anniversaries of notable figures, including heart surgeon Vytautas Jonas Sirvydis and architect Elena Nijole Bučiūta, further enriching the town’s historical narrative.As Lithuania prepares to honor its cultural icons, several significant anniversaries are set to be celebrated in 2025. Notably, the legacy of Antanas Strazdas and Juozas Ottas Širvydas will be commemorated on April 4, marking 150 years since their birth. Additionally,the renowned primitivist artist Monika Bičiūnienė,an honorary citizen of the Rokiškis region,will celebrate her 115th birthday on April 28. The year will also recognize the contributions of freedom defender Alvydas Matulka, who turns 70 on May 29, and Elena Naginskaite-Vajegieni, the first editor of “Prie Nemunėlio” magazine, who will reach the centennial milestone on August 21.Othre notable birthdays include Pauli Širvius at 105 on September 6 and partisan Leonard Grigoniis-Užpali,who will turn 120 on December 14,further enriching Lithuania’s cultural tapestry.
Commemorating Lithuania’s Heritage: an Interview with Laima Skardžienė, Head of the History department at the National Museum of Rokiškis
In an engaging discussion with the time.news editor, Laima Skardžienė sheds light on the important cultural initiatives taking place in Rokiškis, focusing on the forthcoming avenue of oak trees honoring Lithuanian statesmen.
Editor: Laima, can you share more about the importance of planting thes oak trees to commemorate mykol Romeris and Antanas Tumėnis?
Laima Skardžienė: Absolutely! The avenue of oak trees is a tribute to the legacies of these influential statesmen who substantially contributed to Lithuania’s inter-war governance. Oak trees, symbols of strength and longevity, will serve as vibrant living memorials.Each tree will have a plaque that outlines the accomplishments of these leaders, providing an educational experience for visitors. We want the community to reflect on their remarkable past during national celebrations.
Editor: This project coincides with the upcoming 145th birthdays of Romeris and Tumėnis. What can attendees expect from the exhibition and educational activities planned for April 25?
Laima Skardžienė: The event will feature a range of exhibits detailing the achievements of Romeris and Tumėnis, alongside interactive educational activities aimed at engaging all age groups. We hope to foster an understanding of their contributions not just to Rokiškis, but to the broader narrative of Lithuanian history. Additionally, it’s a chance for the community to celebrate together, ensuring that their legacies continue to inspire future generations.
Editor: The Tyzenhaus family also plays a crucial role in Rokiškis’s cultural heritage. Coudl you expand on their contributions and the upcoming anniversaries?
Laima Skardžienė: Indeed, the tyzenhaus family has left a profound mark on both local and European history. Count konstantinas Tyzenhaus was pivotal in zoology and the arts, while his sister, Sofija Tyzenhauzaitė, broke barriers in literature. To commemorate their contributions, we plan to host events highlighting their achievements later this year. These celebrations will serve as a reminder of our rich cultural heritage and the importance of acknowledging significant figures in our history.
Editor: As Rokiškis reflects on it’s past, several notable anniversaries are scheduled for 2025, such as the celebrations for Antanas Strazdas and Juozas Ottas Širvydas. How does the museum plan to leverage these events for community engagement?
Laima Skardžienė: These anniversaries present an excellent opportunity to engage the community through various cultural programs. We plan to organise workshops, lectures, and exhibitions that not only honor these figures but also allow our community to learn about their contributions. by creating a participatory atmosphere,we aim to enhance collective memory and pride in our shared history.
Editor: This initiative seems to foster a greater appreciation for Lithuania’s cultural legacy.What advice would you give to other communities looking to establish similar projects?
Laima Skardžienė: Collaboration is key. Communities should aim to engage local historians, artists, and educators to weave a compelling narrative about their heritage. Planning events that blend education with festivity can attract a diverse audience. Most importantly, creating spaces for public reflection—like our oak tree avenue—can foster a collective sense of identity and continuity.
Editor: Thank you,Laima,for sharing these insights. The projects at the National Museum of Rokiškis are a remarkable way to celebrate and instill appreciation for Lithuania’s rich cultural tapestry.
Laima Skardžienė: Thank you for having me! We’re excited about these initiatives and their potential to connect the past with future generations.