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Ecuador’s Last Ice Harvester, Baltazar Ushca, Passes Away

In a bittersweet moment for Ecuador, Baltazar Ushca, the last remaining mountain ice harvester in the country, passed away at the age of [insert age here] on Friday. Ushca, who devoted over fifty years of his life to climbing Ecuador’s highest summit to extract ice at the top, leaves behind a legacy that will forever be remembered.

Known as the “last iceman of Chimborazo,” Ushca’s story is one of resilience, determination, and dedication to a craft that has been passed down through generations in his family. Despite the challenges of climate change and modern technology making his job obsolete, Ushca continued to climb the icy slopes of Chimborazo to preserve the tradition of ice harvesting.

Ushca’s death marks the end of an era in Ecuadorian history, as his unique profession and connection to the land will be sorely missed. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the stories that will be passed down for generations to come.

As we mourn the loss of Baltazar Ushca, let us also celebrate his life and the impact he had on his community and the world. His dedication to preserving a dying tradition serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring our roots and the land that sustains us.

In his honor, let us continue to cherish the traditions and practices that connect us to our past and shape our future. Rest in peace, Baltazar Ushca, the last iceman of Chimborazo.

Who was Baltazar Ushca?

Baltazar Ushca was a legendary figure in Ecuador, known as the last mountain ice harvester. He spent over fifty years climbing Chimborazo, the country’s highest summit, to extract ice from the top. Ushca’s dedication to this traditional practice made him a beloved and respected figure in his community.

What motivated Baltazar Ushca to become an ice harvester?

Ushca’s decision to become an ice harvester was influenced by his family’s tradition. His ancestors had been ice harvesters for generations, and he felt a deep connection to this practice. Despite the challenging conditions and physical demands of the job, Ushca was determined to carry on his family’s legacy.

How did Baltazar Ushca harvest ice from Chimborazo?

Ushca’s process of harvesting ice from Chimborazo was a labor-intensive and dangerous task. He would climb to the summit of the mountain, using ropes and tools to chip away at the ice. Once he had collected enough ice, Ushca would carefully pack it into insulated containers and transport it down the mountain to sell in the local markets.

What impact did Baltazar Ushca have on his community?

Ushca’s role as the last mountain ice harvester in Ecuador made him a symbol of tradition and resilience. His dedication to preserving this ancient practice helped to keep his community connected to its cultural roots. Ushca’s ice was also highly prized for its purity and quality, making him a respected figure in the local economy.

What is the legacy of Baltazar Ushca?

With the passing of Baltazar Ushca, Ecuador has lost a true icon of its cultural heritage. His legacy as the last mountain ice harvester will live on in the memories of those who knew him and the generations that follow. Ushca’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring and preserving traditional practices in a rapidly changing world.

Sources: The New York Times, BBC News, The Guardian