Carrying and portage means among the Russian population of Siberia (XIX–XX centuries)

The paper deals with the poorly studied topic – the means of carrying and portage of heavy cargos at the Russian population of Siberia in the XIX–XX centuries. Settlement of the vast territories of Siberia could have hardly been executed without portage means that were used by the Russian population. The cartage has played an all-important role in formation of economy of region. Progress carrying craft has generated demand for a different type vehicles. Their manufacturing has caused occurrence of masters-sannikov, kolesnikov, telezhnikov and has led to a division of labour though each Siberian peasant could own well an axe and itself to make some types of vehicles. Based on literary and field ethnographic materials the peculiarities of riding, transportation of goods with saddle use, various transport (cargo sleds, sledges, carts) and some means of weight carrying were considered. Methods and means of wood storage description is provided. Carrier's trade development generated demand for carriages of different type. Its manufacturing caused the appearance of sledge, wheel, cart craftsmen and resulted in division of labour. Although, every Siberian peasant was able to use the axe and make some types of vehicles. Various means of cargo carrying and portage reflect the multisectoral economy and mixed culture of the Russian population of Siberia and stipulate the specificity of various transportation means in various environment zones.