Fair prostitution in Rostov Veliky in the 2nd half of the 19th century

The article analyses the state of supervised prostitution during the annual Rostov Fair in the 2nd half of the 19th century. Based on a wide range of historical sources, including unpublished archival materials, the social composition of prostitutes and their mistresses, the routes of movement and the specifics of the organisation of police surveillance during the bargaining period was established. The personal stories of brothel keepers and public women are considered. The significance of Rostov Fair as one of the notable temporary centers of the commercial intimate services industry in the Central Industrial Region at the beginning of the 2nd half of the 19th century is determined. Most of the visiting public women and their keepers came from the lower strata of society. Single prostitutes from nearby settlements were in the most difficult financial situation. The restriction of the legal entry of prostitutes to the fair had led to an increase in clandestine prostitution and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. By the end of the 19th century, Rostov Fair had lost its significance.