History of Pico Truncado

It is a curious fact that the least densely populated zone in Argentina has been dwelled by countless groups that used to enjoy a unique natural scene haunted by harsh weather and geologic conditions that constantly changed the surrounding environment. Archeologists and researchers both from Argentina and abroad have gathered valuable data that has contributed to understanding Patagonia in general, as well as the caves lying close to the site where Pico Truncado lies today, in particular.

It was inside these caves that the explorers found lythic pieces that give evidence of the presence of humans 12,960 years ago. These men left track of their culture, cave paintings and a clear sample that this area used to feature plenty of water and pastures at the time, which also lured countless animal species.

The Pico Truncado we know today emerged in 1912. It acquired further importance by 1915, when Caleta Olivia began to fade and many families of traders, ranchers, farmers, railway workers and the like settled down in Pico Truncado. As a result, the public offices of Caleta Olivia were moved to Pico Truncado in 1917, when its official foundation was decreed by the then president Hipólito Irigoyen, on July 11, 1921.

The creation of the Public Works Committee in 1949 and the Town Hall in 1963 followed. Mr. Leandro Pessolano was chosen as the first mayor. By then, Pico Truncado already had a population of approximately 3,000 denizens.

The evolution of Pico Truncado necessarily implies the discovery of gas underground. This extremely significant event took place in 1946 and made it possible to settle down many housing units and exploit a big gas field. Thus, the population grew from 6,000 to 8,000 inhabitants within a period of less than ten years (1968-1974).

In 1978, the railway stopped working and the oil crisis of the last few years forced the authorities to design a reconstruction plan for the region which would foster productivity and enhance its tourist, cultural and anthropologic attractions.