THE PROCEDURE FOR PROVIDING VERKHOTUR’S YAMSCHIKS WITH A MONEY WAGE IN THE 17th CENTURY

Abstract

Introduction. The article examines the procedure for obtaining a money wage by the yamschiks of Verkhoturye, which was one of the most important sources of their existence. Historians have hardly studied this issue. The changes in the procedure for issuing salaries in the 17th century are analyzed, and their influence on the yamschiks is shown. Methods and materials. The basis of the work was unpublished archival materials, many of which were introduced into scientific circulation for the first time. Comparative, genetic, and anthropological methods of historical research were used. Analysis. Since the emergence of the Verkhotursky Yam, a complicated procedure for obtaining a money wage has been in effect for yamschiks. It assumed the annual appeal of the yamschiks to Moscow. This was burdensome for the yamschiks and did not guarantee timely payment of wages. This prompted the yamschiks to seek permission from the authorities to change the procedure for providing salaries. The simplification of the procedure for issuing salaries was also favored by the growth of income in Verkhoturye. From 1659/60, yamschiks received salaries from the local budget without trips to Moscow until the first half of 1670. During the following decades of the 17th century, Verkhotursky Yam was supplied with funds from Moscow. Results. By the end of the 17th century, the procedure for providing Verkhotursky yamschiks with a money wage was not simplified. They went to Moscow for payment annually. This worsened the already difficult financial situation of the yamschiks, negatively affected their duties, and therefore hindered the Russian development of Siberia. © 2023 Volgograd State University. All rights reserved.