The military districts were organised to include civilian administration regions of gubernyas and uyezds.

In 1864, the district opened the Vilna Junker Infantry School to prepare non-commissioned officers.

The district commander often simultaneously held the position of Governor-General of Vilna.

[2] On 17 July 1914, just before the beginning of the First World War, martial law was imposed in the district.

Combat units stationed in the district at the time became part of the new 1st Army, under the command of district commander Paul von Rennenkampf.