Description
Sheep farming and sheep transport have had a significant impact on the history and economy of the region around Ushuaia and throughout Patagonia. From the late 19th century onwards, the region underwent drastic changes following the introduction of livestock. Large estates (estancias) – such as the famous Estancia Harberton near Ushuaia – were established to produce wool and meat for export worldwide. As there were hardly any roads in the rugged landscape of Tierra del Fuego, criss-crossed by fjords and islands, the entire economy depended entirely on ships. Sheep were transported from the surrounding islands to the processing plants on small sailing vessels (cutters) and steamships. As can be seen in the photograph, huge flocks were herded right up to the coast to be loaded onto cargo ships via simple wooden jetties. – Argentina – 1973
