Bariloche, once a secluded outpost, has transformed into a premier Argentinian destination, attracting not only tourists but also notable historical figures. This scenic town, nestled in the Andean foothills, has played host to infamous outlaws and influential leaders, including Butch Cassidy and former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt. Delve into the rich tapestry of Bariloche's past and discover the stories of its distinguished visitors.
In the early 20th century, the notorious American outlaw Robert Leroy Parker, better known as Butch Cassidy, sought refuge in Argentina. Alongside his partner Harry Longabaugh, the Sundance Kid, and Etta Place, Cassidy arrived in Argentina in 1901. They settled in Cholila, Chubut Province, where they purchased land and attempted to live as ranchers. Their integration into local society was so successful that they even formed friendships with the governor and sheriff.
Despite their efforts to start anew, Cassidy and his companions couldn't escape their past. They were implicated in a bank robbery in Rio Gallegos, some 700 miles from their ranch, making off with a substantial sum. By 1905, with Pinkerton detectives closing in, they abandoned their ranch and headed north to Bariloche. Here, they boarded the steamer Condor, crossing Nahuel Huapi Lake into Chile. Their trail didn't end there; they returned to Argentina for another heist before ultimately meeting their demise in Bolivia during a confrontation with soldiers over a stolen mining payroll.
Theodore Roosevelt's visit to Bariloche in 1913 came after his defeat in the U.S. presidential race. Initially planning a speaking tour in South America, Roosevelt delivered lectures in Buenos Aires on Pan-Americanism and democracy. His travels led him to Patagonia and Bariloche, where he engaged in discussions with conservationist Francisco Moreno on the preservation of natural resources.
Roosevelt's time in Bariloche included mingling with locals and expatriates, as well as enjoying a meal of freshly caught river trout. Like Cassidy before him, Roosevelt embarked on a journey aboard the Condor steamer, venturing into Chile and Puerto Varas to explore the region's lakes. This trip set the stage for his subsequent Amazonian adventure, where he co-led the Roosevelt-Rondon Scientific Expedition to chart the unexplored "River of Doubt."
Roosevelt's visit to Bariloche seems to have established a trend among U.S. presidents. Dwight D. Eisenhower and Bill Clinton are among the successors who have also experienced the allure of this Argentinian town. Their visits underscore Bariloche's significance as a site of historical interest and international diplomacy.
Bariloche's transformation from an isolated town to a hub of historical significance is a testament to its enduring appeal. The stories of its famous visitors offer a glimpse into the town's past and its role on the world stage. As Bariloche continues to welcome travelers from around the globe, it remains a place where history and natural beauty converge.
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