In this article the author studies the role of merchantry in formation and development of public assistance system in Kazan province. Charity work of Muslim entrepreneurs in a life of Tatar society in 19th century is considered. Names of many Kazan merchants, who made a great contribution into formation of such institutions as almshouses, asylums, hospitals are listed in the work. Archival data make it possible to characterize with specific reference activity of every representative of merchant family.