When “Minerva” Was Not Called “ Minerva”: Tomas Heidukevičius (Tomasz Hejdukiewicz), Founder of the First Metalworking and Machine Manufacturing Factory in Kaunas

Abstract

Abstract. The article discusses the circumstances surrounding the establishment of Kaunas’ first metalworking factory. It delves into details such as the founding date (Autumn of 1862), the spelling of the founder’s name — nobleman Tomas Heidukevičius (also known as Tomasz Hejdukiewicz) — the initial activities of the factory, capital procurement, and the establishment of the company. Through presented documents and a cemetery inspection, this article refutes the misconception that the factory was originally named “Minerva” and that its first owner was nobleman Mikalojus Pranciškus Rekošas. The “reintroduction” of Heidukevičius into the historiography of the development of Lithuanian industry sheds light on the origin of artifacts found on his gravestone bearing his initials.