Q28360767

What people wore

Inherited silk festive clothing of wealthy families

Merchant and wealthy peasant women cherished festive clothing made from thick silk fabrics like satin and brocade, which were passed down through generations. These colorful, expensive garments were often adorned with large, bright floral patterns that reflected a blend of European trends and traditional folk art.

Getting around

The podorozhnaya travel permit system

Travelers could obtain a podorozhnaya, a travel permit that authorized the use of state-provided post horses and required payment of a fee for every verst traveled.

At the table

Rye bread was the daily staple

Ordinary families relied on rye bread as a daily staple, with an adult consuming up to two pounds of this dense, sour-leavened bread each day. Because bread was time-consuming to make, it was typically baked in a Russian oven only once a week.

Music

Social Gatherings and Folk Music Traditions

During the eighteenth century, young people often organized gatherings where they sang and danced, such as the cabbage-chopping parties, where work was followed by music and dancing once the older adults left the room.

Daily life

The versatile Russian stove and new ceilings

The Russian stove served as the center of the home for cooking and heating, often featuring a dedicated sleeping bench on top. During the 18th century, homes increasingly adopted flat ceilings, which helped distribute smoke more evenly, reducing the need for the traditional smoke-venting windows.

What it cost

Annual wages for factory workers

In the mid-18th century, unskilled factory workers or general laborers typically earned around 16 rubles per year, while skilled masters could earn 30 to 60 rubles annually. Some workers also received payment in kind, such as flour, grain, salt, or meat, to supplement their low cash wages.