Rescuing the Rescuers:
The History of the Saint Bernard

 The Saint Bernard is known worldwide for its rich history as a "saver" of human lives in the Swiss Italian Alps.  It is believed that they were named after Bernard Montijoix, the patron saint of alpinists and skiers, who began the St. Bernard Hospice for travelers in the Alps.

 Trained by the monks at the St. Bernard Hospice during the 1700s, Saint Bernards went on rescue missions in groups of two or more seeking lost travelers. They would lie next to him, providing warmth while one of the dogs would return to the hospice to lead the monks back to the victim.

 The most famous Saint Bernard is Barry who lived from 1800 to 1814. He is credited with saving over 40 lives prior to his death in Berne, Switzerland.  Since his death many Saint Bernards have been named Barry in his honor.