The article examines the interrelation between the lack of connections in the research community of contemporary Russian historians and the essential aspects of their professional self- reflection. This examination reveals the lack of interest to a research communication and to the social conditions of reproduction of historical knowledge. Historical periodicals are one of the main forms of production of knowledge and construction of community. The author argues for the significance of the historical periodicals evaluation for the rising of research norms and professional standards and for the progress of historical knowledge.