He took interest in the language and literature of Estonia, in the earlier history of Livonia and its relics, worked to improve the situation of the peasantry and advance cultural life.
Tema huvialade hulka kuulusid nii eesti keel ja kirjandus, Liivimaa varasem ajalugu ja selle mälestised, talupoegade olukorra parandamine kui ka vaimuelu edendamine.