The Goats – a piece of Swiss Cultural Heritage
150 years ago, goats played an important role throughout Switzerland. Back then, Switzerland was not a country of immigration but one of emigration. Europe was economically depressed, and failed harvests led to hunger among broad sections of the population. Goats provided a reliable source of milk, especially for the poorer people.
Goats can be kept in alpine terrain and are more economical than cows. This is why until the middle of the last century they were considered to be the poor man’s cows. But goats were not only important for small mountain farmers. Many factory workers and day labourers also kept goats for self-sufficiency.
Unlike cows, goats do not need to have newborns every year to give milk. Although the milk flow decreases, it can last for three years. Goat’s milk contains valuable protein that is very easy to digest. It is also very well suited for babies. In the 19th century, this prevented malnutrition, especially for the children living in the mountainous areas.