Esquel history

The History of Esquel's Emergence

The official founding date of the city is considered to be February 25, 1906. Unlike many other settlements, Esquel did not arise by royal decree or military order, but thanks to the development of communications: it was on this day that a telegraph station began operations here, around which the settlement began to form.

The name Esquel has roots in the language of the indigenous peoples (Tsonek or Mapuche) and is usually translated as "thistle" or "burr", reflecting the characteristics of the local flora encountered by the first travellers.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of a small station into an important urban centre of Patagonia was driven by several factors:

• Welsh Heritage: The city developed as an extension of the Welsh colony "October 16" (Colonia 16 de Octubre). Settlers from Wales sought new pastures and fertile lands, pushing deeper into the Andes.
• Geography: Its location in a valley, protected by mountains from strong Patagonian winds, combined with the presence of water sources, made this place ideal for permanent residence.
• Trade Hub: Esquel quickly became a crossroads where farmers and merchants exchanged goods, linking the mountain regions with the coast.

Early Economy and Cultural Features

In the first decades, the region's economy relied on sheep farming and agriculture. Wool and meat were the main products sent for export. The cultural appearance of the city was formed through a unique blend of traditions: the strict ethics and love for music of the Welsh colonists intertwined with the customs of local residents and Creoles.

A crucial stage that consolidated Esquel's economic status was the construction of the famous narrow-gauge railway, known today as La Trochita. The arrival of the train finally connected this remote corner with the "mainland" and opened new opportunities for trade.

Major Milestones in the City's History

• Pre-1906: The territory was inhabited by the indigenous Tehuelche and Mapuche peoples, and later the valley began to be developed by Welsh colonists seeking new pastures.
• February 25, 1906: The official founding date of Esquel, coinciding with the opening and commencement of operations of the "Medanitos" telegraph station.
• 1922: The first municipal council was formed, marking the beginning of official administrative organisation and city planning.
• 1937: Los Alerces National Park was established nearby, laying the foundation for the future development of eco-tourism.
• 1940: The municipality building with its recognisable clock tower was built, becoming one of the architectural symbols of Esquel.
• May 25, 1945: The train arrived in the city for the first time via the narrow-gauge railway, connecting the region with the rest of the country; today this train is known as "La Trochita".
• 1974: The official opening of the La Hoya ski centre took place, turning Esquel into a popular winter resort.
• 1978: A large-scale modernisation of the local airport was carried out, including the paving of the runway, which improved connections with Buenos Aires.
• 1998: The vintage express "La Trochita" was declared a National Historic Monument of Argentina, cementing its status as a tourism icon.
• 2017: Los Alerces National Park was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list, confirming the uniqueness of the nature surrounding Esquel.

Evolution of Lifestyle: From Agrarian Colony to Eco-Capital

If the city's chronology is built on dates, its character was formed through the difficult decisions of the residents themselves. The history of Esquel is not just sequential growth, but a shift in paradigms: from the hard labour of sheep farmers to the conscious preservation of nature and welcoming guests from all over the world.

The Second Life of "La Trochita"

One of the most dramatic moments in the city's history occurred in the 1990s. During this time, railway lines across Argentina deemed unprofitable were being closed en masse. Esquel faced the threat of losing its historic link with the outside world — the "Old Patagonian Express".

However, local authorities and the community made a strategic decision not just to preserve the line, but to completely reimagine its purpose. The railway, which once transported wool and livestock, was repurposed into a unique tourist attraction. This decision allowed the living history of the steam era to be preserved, making it a main magnet for travellers.

The Environmental Manifesto of 2003

A defining event for Esquel's modern identity was not a construction project, but a civic stance. At the beginning of the 21st century, the city faced the prospect of a large gold mine opening in close proximity to residential areas.

Residents of the city went to a referendum and overwhelmingly (about 81%) rejected the mining project. This historic "No" became a turning point: Esquel officially proclaimed itself a city free from toxic production and definitively bet on sustainable tourism and environmental protection. This event shaped the city's image as a guardian of Patagonia's pristine nature.

Change of Seasons and Priorities

For a long time, life in the valley slowed down with the arrival of winter. Esquel's transformation into a year-round resort occurred thanks to the development of the La Hoya ski centre. This changed the economic rhythm of the city: whereas previously prosperity depended on the summer harvest and sheep shearing, snow-covered slopes became an equally valuable resource. The modernisation of the airport and the ability to receive large aircraft only solidified this status, turning a remote mountain town into an accessible destination for active leisure enthusiasts.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of Esquel is a reflection of its short but rich history and the harsh Patagonian climate. You will not find opulent Baroque or medieval Gothic styles here. The urban fabric of Esquel was formed out of the necessity for survival, the influence of immigrants, and its subsequent transformation into a tourism hub. The city's appearance is eclectic: the modest homes of early settlers stand alongside administrative buildings from the mid-20th century and modern Alpine-style cottages.

Main Styles and Stages of Development

The city's development expanded horizontally, occupying the valley between mountain ranges. Several key directions defining Esquel's visual code can be highlighted:

• Patagonian Functionalism (Early 20th Century): The style of the first settlers. It is characterised by the use of simple and accessible materials: wood and corrugated iron (zinc) for wall cladding and roofs. Houses were built with steep gable roofs to prevent snow accumulation. This is architecture of survival, devoid of decorative excesses.
• Welsh Brick Architecture: The legacy of colonists from Wales. It is distinguished by the use of fired red brick, strict proportions, and arched windows. This style is most clearly manifested in religious structures (chapels).
• Civil Rationalism (1940s–1950s): A period of active state participation in the city's development. Buildings from this era are more monumental, made of concrete and stone, often featuring elements of simplified Neoclassicism or Art Deco, adapted for provincial needs.
• Alpine Style (Modernity): With the development of tourism and the La Hoya ski resort, the city began actively using stone and natural wood in facade finishing, imitating the architecture of European mountain villages.

Iconic Buildings and Structures

Several architectural landmarks serve as orientation points in the city and preserve its history:

• Municipal Building (Edificio Municipal): Built in the 1940s, this building with its recognisable clock tower is the administrative centre of the city. Its style combines the severity of an official institution with elements characteristic of mountain regions.
• Seion Chapel (Capilla Seion): One of the oldest buildings in the region, preserving the spirit of the Welsh pioneers. Simple architecture, brickwork, and a lack of elaborate decoration highlight the ethics of the first inhabitants.
• "La Trochita" Station: The railway station complex represents an example of industrial architecture from the early 20th century. Wooden structures, old workshops, and platforms create the atmosphere of the bygone era of steam locomotives.
• Historic Hotels: Buildings of hotels from the middle of the last century have been preserved in the city centre, demonstrating the transition from purely utilitarian architecture to creating a comfortable environment for the first tourists.

Notable Figures Associated with Esquel

The history of Esquel is inextricably linked with the names of pioneers who developed harsh Patagonia, as well as contemporaries who have brought fame to the city in culture and sports.

• Jorge Luis Fontana
  Role: Explorer, first governor of the Chubut territory.
  Significance: Led the famous "Chubut Riflemen" (Rifleros del Chubut) expedition in 1885. It was he who discovered the fertile "October 16" valley, where the city was subsequently founded, and facilitated its peaceful settlement by Welsh colonists.
• Medardo Morelli
  Role: Chief of the telegraph station.
  Significance: A key figure in the founding of the city. The opening and commencement of operations of his telegraph station on February 25, 1906, is considered the official birth date of Esquel, as communication was vital for the settlement's development.
• Antonio Miguens
  Role: Early settler.
  Significance: Considered the first resident to settle directly within the territory of modern Esquel. He built a house here even before the official appearance of the telegraph and urban infrastructure, paving the way for future residents.
• John Daniel Evans
  Role: Welsh colonist, guide (known as "El Baqueano").
  Significance: A legendary figure of the region. He participated in expeditions exploring the Andes, established relationships with indigenous peoples, and developed agriculture. His activities laid the economic foundation for the entire Esquel and Trevelin zone.
• Dante Quinterno
  Role: Artist, comic book creator.
  Significance: A famous Argentine animator, author of the iconic character the Indian Patoruzú. For many years he owned an estate in the vicinity of Esquel, where he drew inspiration from the landscapes and the culture of the local Tehuelche people for his works.
• Aldo Duscher
  Role: Professional footballer.
  Significance: A native of Esquel who achieved global recognition in sports. He played for the Argentine national team and leading European clubs, becoming an example of success for the city's youth.