Barrio Echesortu

By 1880, the western part of the city was a vast unpopulated area, mainly destined for the development of farms.

These lands were acquired and inherited by prominent local families, whose economic and political activities promoted their growth. Among the most relevant names, there was Mr. Wheelwright, concessionaire of the Argentine Central Railway, and Mr. Ciro Echesortu, who was the city's mayor in 1838.

As the city expanded, this sector received more attention, and various institutions that the local elite preferred to keep away from the urban center were established there. These included the Anti-Rabies Institute, the Penitentiary, the Cemeteries (El Salvador, the Cementerio de Disidentes, and the Cementerio Israelita), and the Leprosarium, which is now the Carrasco Hospital.

The urbanization was in charge of the Ciro Echesortu and Casiano Casas Company, which not only parceled out the lots, but also organized the Tranway del Oeste Tram Company. Over time, the streets were paved with stones brought from the Martin Garcia Island, and cobblestones that arrived as ship ballast. By 1900, the lots were sold at very low prices, which facilitated the construction of homes, and promoted the neighborhood.

Historical pictures: Higher School of Museology, and Museum of the City.