Why Do Saint Bernards Carry Barrels?
Saint Bernards, those majestic and gentle giants, are often associated with the iconic image of carrying small barrels on their backs. But why do they carry these barrels? What’s the purpose behind this seemingly peculiar practice? In this article, we’ll delve into the history and reasoning behind Saint Bernards’ barrel-carrying tradition.
A Brief History of Saint Bernards
Before we dive into the barrel-carrying question, let’s take a brief look at the origins of the Saint Bernard breed. Originating in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards were bred in the 17th century by monks of the Great St. Bernard Hospice, a mountain pass monastery near the French-Italian border. The monks aimed to create a dog that could navigate the treacherous mountain terrain, locate missing travelers, and provide comfort and aid to those in distress.
The Origin of the Barrel-Carrying Tradition
So, why did Saint Bernards start carrying barrels? The answer lies in the history of mountaineering and the dangers of the Alpine terrain. In the 17th and 18th centuries, travelers traversing the treacherous mountain passes often found themselves stranded or lost in harsh weather conditions. Hypothermia and altitude sickness were common hazards.
To combat these perils, the monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice developed a special kit to aid stranded travelers. The kit, typically carried on the back of a Saint Bernard, contained rum, coffee, and bread to provide warmth and sustenance to those in need. The barrels were used to carry these essential supplies, which the dogs would carefully transport back to the monastery or to the stranded travelers.
The Barrel’s Design
The barrels, also known as "munitions" or "portable containers," were designed specifically for the Saint Bernards’ task. They were typically made of wicker or wood, lightweight and sturdy, with a capable capacity of carrying around 3-5 liters of supplies. The barrels were also equipped with leather straps to secure them to the dog’s back, ensuring they didn’t shift or fall off during the arduous climb.
The Saint Bernards’ Role
So, what was the role of the Saint Bernards in this rescue mission? Trained to detect and locate missing travelers, the Saint Bernards would use their keen sense of smell to track down the stranded individuals. Once found, the dogs would lead the rescue team back to the stranded person, guiding them through the treacherous terrain.
How the Barrel-Carrying Tradition Evolved
As the years went by, the Saint Bernards’ barrel-carrying tradition evolved to incorporate new supplies and techniques. In the 19th century, the monks added brandy to the kits, which proved to be a vital component in warming up stranded travelers. Later, the barrels were replaced with more modern and convenient containers, such as canvas bags and backpacks.
The Legacy of Saint Bernards and Barrels
Today, the Saint Bernards’ barrel-carrying tradition is mostly relegated to the realm of historical curiosity, but its impact on mountain rescue operations remains significant. The dogs’ exceptional tracking abilities and ability to navigate harsh terrain have saved countless lives, earning them a revered status as hero dogs.
| Year | Development | Supplies |
|---|---|---|
| 17th-18th century | Barrel-carrying tradition begins | Rum, coffee, bread |
| 19th century | Brandying added to kits | Brandied wine |
| 20th century | Barrels replaced with modern containers | Canvas bags, backpacks |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the tradition of Saint Bernards carrying barrels dates back to the 17th century, when monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice developed a special kit to aid stranded travelers in the treacherous Alpine terrain. The barrels served as portable containers for essential supplies, which the Saint Bernards would carefully transport to those in need. Today, the legacy of the Saint Bernards’ barrel-carrying tradition remains a testament to the breed’s remarkable abilities and their crucial role in mountain rescue operations.
