Results of archaeological research of the Altai Local History Museum and Biysk Local History Museum in 1940s — 1960s, including their history artifacts and cultural heritage items record management and certification activities are presented in the article. For the first time the question of formation of full- fledged exhibitions on ancient and medieval history of the region was raised. Research expeditions were aimed at getting new pieces for the museum collections. During that period active research was carried out by A. P. Umansky and B. H. Kadikov. The artifacts received during archeological excavations allowed to resolve disputable issues of exhibits dating. However, research results did not much appear in journals. Many museum pieces of the collections are not introduced into scientific circulation, which implies potential possibilities for modern researchers. In 1940s — 1960s employees of the museums developed theoretical knowledge of methodology of field work and expeditions planning. Though the research had an unplanned character and were aimed at the rescue of exhibits, it was the first attempt of collecting materials for the purpose of exhibition formation.