The article presents the results of an analysis of the domestic state and legal theories of the 19th century on the historical roots of local self-government in Russia. The author traces the trends in the interpretation of the historical prerequisites for the formation of self-government institutions and their relationship with state authorities, which are characteristic of scientific schools. The study reveals the limitations of the 19th-century scientific research due to the state of the source base and some contradictions in the content of the concepts. Noting the role of state and legal studies in modern legal practice, the author substantiates the need to actively continue the scientific search for the origins of local self-government based on the academic framework of the 19th century.