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Theology His Profession, Botany His Passion: Thomas A. Bruhin, 1835-1895, Herbert Bruhin

Swiss American Historical Society Review

In the little town of Schwyz, in the heart of the Swiss Confederation, on April 20, 1642, the joyous strains of Easter Mass had scarcely died away when a cry of "Fire!" was raised. Less than two hours later, the greater part of the town, which lies at the foot of the twin Mythen peaks about an hour's journey from Lake Lucerne, was a smoking ruin. Among the 47 houses destroyed were the presbytery, dating from 1594, the school, two inns, the mill with the mint, and the church with its tower and bells. Fortunately, it had been possible to …