About the Book

A compact and richly illustrated documentation describes the living conditions and daily life of the population in Surselva over the past four centuries. The inner-alpine self-sufficient economy, including agriculture and livestock farming, the struggle against natural forces, uncertainties due to fluctuating climatic conditions and poor harvest years, diseases, wars, and emigration are presented and illustrated with quotes from eyewitnesses as well as tables with numbers and facts. The development of the town of Ilanz, the first town on the Rhine, is illustrated with a pictorial history starting from the 17th century. Special attention is given to the impacts of the devastating flood disasters in the Vorderrhein and Glenner in 1834, 1868, and 1927, the structural protective measures taken, and the diverse uses of these waterways from earlier centuries to the present day.