On 28 July 1865 the sailing ship Mimosa anchored in Golfo Nuevo with about 150 settlers from Wales. They were looking for a place where they could keep their language, religion and customs. In the first days they sheltered in the caves of Punta Cuevas, then walked to the Chubut river valley, where they founded the colony.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1865 | The Mimosa arrives. 28 July is taken as the founding date of Puerto Madryn |
| 1865–1870 | Years of hunger and drought; help and trade with the Tehuelche people |
| 1874 | Gaiman is founded |
| 1886 | Construction of the Puerto Madryn – Trelew railway begins |
| 1965 | Centenary: the Tehuelche Indian monument is unveiled at Punta Cuevas |
The name Madryn comes from the estate in Wales of Love Jones-Parry, one of the promoters of the settlement project.
Where to see this history today
- Welsh Landing Museum and the caves at Punta Cuevas, Puerto Madryn.
- Tea houses and chapels in Gaiman.
- Irrigation canals and mill in Dolavon.
- Every 28 July, ceremonies and celebrations in town.
Follow the Welsh trail
We reply on WhatsApp the same day, in English. Tell us your dates, group size and, if you arrive by cruise, the ship name.