The modern world inventions , electricity, running water… I imagine arrived late in the Queyras?
You’re partly wrong! Abriès has a public lighting – and it’s free! – as early as 1899, thanks to the hydroelectric power station of Ernest Martin’s mill. The same was true for Ristolas in 1907! The “Queyrassin tradition” of mutual aid endured the centuries! Several attempts were made to create industries: semi-precious stone work in Saint-Véran, the asbestos mine in Péas, and the copper mine in Saint-Véran, which operated from 1901 to 1960.
What about cars? I saw a postcard showing the first car in Izoard path in 1911!
Cars will have serious consequences on the Queyras and will change everything… The Queyras is now landlocked, whereas before any hiker could cross the mountain passes. Summer tourism began in the late 19th century, the Abriès Grand Hôtel opened in 1899, and the mountain guide profession was taking shape. In the early 20th century, the army tested a new means of transport: skiing! And it was a success. The Aiguilles ski club was founded at the end of 1906. In the 1930’s, the Abriès, Aiguilles and Saint-Véran ski resorts were created.
