Abstract
In the article explores the history of self-government in Chita from 1860 to 1875, specifically in the period preceding the establishment of the City Duma. The insufficient study of the history of urban self-government in the prerevolutionary period hinders the effective application of historical insights for modern purposes. The purpose of this work is to determine the role and significance of the Chita Verbal Court within the urban governance framework. Grounded in the principles of objectivity and historicism, this research employs a variety of methods, including formal-legal and comparative approaches, to analyze regulatory legal acts. It draws from official documentation housed in the State Archives of the Transbaikal Region, with many documents presented in scholarly discourse for the first time. Although Chita became a regional center, it lacked key city-forming attributes and established municipal institutions. The findings indicate that the Chita Verbal Court, established in 1860, served as an administrative entity for the city. It was tasked with tax collection, assessing the commercial and industrial landscape of Chita, and overseeing river navigation. The article highlights that the merchant bourgeoisie exhibited minimal interest in city administration, often seeking to avoid participation in elections. The obligation of public duties became burdensome due to the re peated elections of the same individuals. Nonetheless, the activities of the Verbal Court were not significantly affected by this reluctance to engage in public responsibilities. Over time, its economic functions expanded, reflecting increasing demand and effectiveness within its scope. The public initiatives of the Verbal Court laid a crucial foundation for the future development of self-government in Chita.