Glew

In the heart of Argentina, lies the town of Glew. Glew’s story begins not with a bang, but with a quiet land purchase in 1857 by an Englishman named, you guessed it, Juan Glew. He established an estancia, his own slice of Argentine paradise. Little did he know, his name would become synonymous with the town that would spring up around his land. Glew’s transformation began in 1865, when Juan donated a portion of his land for a railway line and station. This seemingly small act opened the door for the Buenos Aires Great Southern Railway, and on August 14, 1865, the first train chugged into the newly established Pueblo Cambaceres. The town was initially named in honor of Antonio Cambaceres, a prominent writer and legislator who owned land nearby. However, over time, the name Glew took hold, a testament to the lasting impact of Juan Glew’s contribution. Glew isn’t just about trains and estancias. It’s also a town of artists and vibrant communities. In 1905, the Parish of St. Anne was consecrated. Decades later, this humble church became the canvas for renowned painter Raúl Soldi. He spent 23 summers adorning the church walls with breathtaking frescoes, incorporating local landscapes and even portraits of Glew residents. This artistic legacy lives on in the Fundaciόn Soldi, established in 1979 to promote the arts. Glew has seen waves of immigration shaping its character. After World War I, a large German community settled in “Pueblo Nuevo de Glew,” planting trees that still provide shade and clean air. Later, in the 1960s, a Japanese community arrived, adding another layer to the town’s rich tapestry. Glew, once a quiet estancia, has blossomed into a town with a rich history, artistic spirit, and diverse community.