Malacara facts for kids

John Daniel Evans and Malacara

Malacara (born around 1878, died 1909) was a brave horse. He became famous in the history of the Welsh community in Patagonia, Argentina. Malacara saved his rider, John Evans, with a daring jump. This happened during a trip to explore the upper Chubut valley and the Andes mountains.

John Evans and the Welsh Settlers

John Daniel Evans was just three years old when he arrived in Patagonia. He came with the first group of Welsh settlers in 1865. As the Welsh community grew, they explored new areas. The upper Chubut valley was one of these places. John Evans became very important in these explorations. He learned many useful skills from the local Tehuelche people.

Exploring New Lands

In November 1883, John Evans led a group of explorers. They traveled west towards the Andes mountains. They were looking for gold and new lands to settle. On their journey, they met some soldiers. These soldiers were taking Tehuelche prisoners to Valcheta. This was part of a big military campaign. It was called the Conquest of the Desert. Some of Evans's group decided to turn back. But four men, led by Evans, bravely continued their journey.

Meeting the Tehuelche Warriors

By late February 1884, the explorers reached a river. Today, this river is called Gualjaina. There, they met three members of a tribe. The tribe was led by a chief, or cacique, named Foyel. One of the three men, Juan Salvo, knew Evans and his group. He thought they might be spies for the army. Salvo tried to take them to Chief Foyel. When the explorers refused, an argument started.

Malacara's Daring Leap

The four explorers decided to return to the lower Chubut valley. This was about 600 kilometers away. Chief Foyel's warriors began to chase them. On March 4, 1884, the explorers were suddenly attacked. Evans's three companions were killed. John Evans, riding Malacara, had only one way to escape. He urged Malacara towards a steep slope. It led down into a very deep canyon.

A Leap to Freedom

Malacara made an incredible jump across the canyon. He landed safely and quickly climbed up the other side. None of Evans's pursuers dared to try the same leap. The time they lost going around the canyon helped Evans. This allowed him to get far enough away to reach safety. After this amazing escape, John Evans continued to explore the area. He became a key figure in setting up new Welsh settlements there. These settlements helped the area become part of Argentina, not Chile.

Malacara's Lasting Legacy

Malacara lived a long life after his heroic jump. He passed away in 1909, at the age of 31. John Evans buried his loyal horse in Trevelin. He placed a special inscription on Malacara's grave.

Malacara's Grave Inscription

Aquí yacen los restos de mi caballo Malacara que me salvó la vida en el ataque de los indios en el Valle de los Mártires 4-3-84 al regresarme de la cordillera R.I.P. John Daniel Evans.

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Today, Malacara's grave is a popular place for tourists to visit in Trevelin. The story of Malacara and John Evans is a famous tale of bravery and loyalty.

See also

In Spanish: Malacara (caballo) para niños