euskalkultura.eus

As part of the centennial celebration of the foundation of the first Basque association in Valparaiso (1915-2015), Eusko Etxea of this Chilean coastal city supported the presentation of the book Winnipeg: Testimony of an Exile, by Julio Galvez Garraza.  The work commemorates the 75th anniversary of the arrival of the ship, Winnipeg to Chile that carried a number of Basque families and exiles fleeing the war. 

Valparaiso, Chile.   Last November 27, the Eusko Etxea in Valparaiso was the site of the book presentation Winnipeg: Testimony of an Exile by Julio Galvez Barraza, specialist in the republican exile in Chile.  Basque Club president, Archibaldo Uriarte, was one of the book’s supporters. 

The work analyses the arrival of republican refugees, among which were some Basques, to the port in Valparaiso in 1939, through historic documentation, letters, archives and testimonies of survivors who came on the Winnipeg.

The book explains how these immigrants significantly contributed in the development of the arts, culture, economy and other activities in the country.  The author explains the important role that Neruda played as a special Chilean consul in republican immigration, and how he supported the help required to aid refugees and move them in an old cargo ship to their host country.

The book also talks about other important events related to these immigrants, which includes a number of Basques that contributed to the formation of Chile, leaving a wide path for further research.  At this time, the Basque Choir of Chile was formed in that ship by Ramon Muguruza and it still continues to be active.

The presentation was by Luis Guastavino Cordova professor and politician.  Other authorities were also present like: Guillermo Garcia Hernandez, honorary consul of Spain in Valparaiso; Esteban Collins Dupouy, president of the Council of Immigrant Collectivities of Valparaiso; Alfredo Larreta, journalist along with the director of “Mercurio” in Valparaiso; Jaime Ferrer, writer and author of the book The Spanish on the Winnipeg; board members of Eusko Etxea Valparaiso and Santiago, and Agnes America Winnipeg Alonso Bollada, born on the boat while it made its crossing.  There were also members of the community and descendants and family members of other immigrant passengers among others.

A photographic exhibit was also presented with images of the time, and musical duo Nestor Aguirre and Mari Andonaegui, club members, sang Maitetxu Mia and Eres Tu that moved that audience.  With these exhibits and activities, the Basque club hopes to "reinforce the spaces for socialization and make a contribution to the culture and the community."