Baltazar Ushca, the last ice maker of Chimborazo, died at the age of 80, after injuries caused by a domestic accident. The Decentralized Autonomous Government of Guano confirmed that his death occurred on the morning of this Friday, October 11, 2024.
Ushca had received a blow from one of his animals and was urgently transferred on Thursday, October 10, to a health home in Riobamba, where he could not recover from his injuries.
The “last ice maker” worked at the Guano municipal museumwhere he shared his stories for cultural preservation, as part of the canton’s tourism initiative.
“With deep regret, we announce the sensitive death of our beloved Mashi, Taita Baltazar Ushca, the last icemaker of the majestic Chimborazo, a national and international icon whose work and legacy will endure in collective memory of our land and beyond. His dedication and history have inspired generations, making him a symbol of resistance, resilience, culture and love for our traditions,” said the Municipality of Guano, in a statement.
Ushca was recognized for keeping the ice makers tradition alive, to the point of being the last person to carry out this activity, ascending the Chimborazo volcano every day to extract ice and sell it in the La Merced market, in Riobamba.
His life story and ancestral knowledge were part of the documentary “El Último Hielero del Chimborazo”. In 2017 he received an honorary doctorate for his contribution to the preservation of the indigenous culture and traditions of Ecuador, in addition to being recognized for his humility and good humor.
YOU MAY BE INTERESTED: