Jan Welzl, known as Jan Eskymo Welzl (15 August 1868 – 19 September 1948) was a Czech adventurer and traveler, known for his colorful life in inhospitable areas of the world.
He was born in Zabreh in Moravia (Czech: Zábřeh na Moravě). After school, he trained as a locksmith, and at the age of sixteen went to Vienna and the Balkans. In 1888 he had to enlist in the fortress artillery for three years. On his return from the army he went to Hamburg, where he obtained a position as stoker, machinist and kitchen assistant on an overseas ship. From 1892 he worked as a labourer at Port Arthur on the Russia-China border.
He travelled through the Far East, and Siberia and finally settled in the Arctic, where he lived among the indigenous people for several decades. There, and later in Alaska, he was a hunter, fur trader, sailor and gold miner. On the island of New Siberia, he even served as a self-appointed Supreme Court Justice.
Upon his return to Czechoslovakia in the 1920s, his account of life in the Arctic became very popular. His stories included detailed descriptions of the Arctic environment, the life of the natives, and his experiences of survival in the harsh conditions. After a few years, he decided to return to North America, settling in Dawson City, Yukon, Canada. He lived there until his death in 1948.
Welzl remains a fascinating figure whose life story blurs the boundaries between reality and legend and embodies the adventurous spirit of the early 20th century. His contribution as an explorer and storyteller has left a lasting mark on Czech culture and the history of Arctic exploration.
Welzl's personality inspired the creation of the fictional character of Jára Cimrman, a popular figure of Czech literature and theatre. Cimrman is portrayed as a universal genius and adventurer, embodying the same spirit of discovery and ingenuity that Welzl displayed during his lifetime.
In Zabreh, Welzl's birthplace, his legacy is honoured by a statue standing by the train station. The local brewery is also named after him.
Source: Wikipedia
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