Hiswah: From Natural Wells to Technological Hub in the Heart of Aden

The Geographical and Ecological Importance of Hiswah

Nestled where the Great Valley (al-Wadi al Kabir), a branch of the Tiban River, meanders through the Lahej plain and into the sea at Aden Harbour, Hiswah has a unique geographical position. Its location made it an ideal point for water collection, especially when rains from the mountains inland transformed the landscape. The area itself would become saturated, and water could be procured by digging wells to depths between 6 and 16 feet.

The Early Utilisation of Hiswah's Water Resources

Recognising the potential of Hiswah's water resources, four wells were constructed. The water from these wells was transported either by boats to the southern side of the harbour or via camels across the isthmus. This facilitated the distribution of water to the settlement, highlighting Hiswah's significance in the local water supply chain.

Attempts to Establish Hiswah as a Water Source for Shipping

In 1850, a decision was made to supply water to shipping from Hiswah. However, this initiative faced challenges as the wells in Hiswah turned out to be as unreliable as those in Aden, marking a setback in the efforts to utilise Hiswah's water resources efficiently.

Sir James Outram's Vision for Hiswah

In 1854, Sir James Outram, a notable figure in British Indian history, suggested an innovative use of Hiswah's land. He proposed the establishment of a garden, aimed at supplying the garrison and possibly the civil population with vegetables. This initiative was not only for comfort but also as a preventive measure against scurvy. The undertaking involved employing two gardeners, providing them with seeds, and attempting to cultivate a thriving garden. Despite initial enthusiasm, the garden produced lacklustre results for several years.

Colonel Merewether's Involvement and the Introduction of the Persian Wheel

By 1863, Colonel Merewether took on the challenge of reviving the Hiswah garden. Under his stewardship, the garden saw some improvements but continued to run at a financial loss, producing only 6,200 pounds of vegetables annually. A significant development in 1865 was the erection of a Persian wheel, or 'harat', for irrigation purposes. This ancient irrigation device, typically powered by a camel walking in a circle, significantly improved water management and irrigation in the garden.

The Short-Lived Success and Eventual Abandonment of the Garden

The introduction of the Persian wheel marked a turning point, and in 1865, the garden produced a commendable 14,095 pounds of vegetables. Despite this success and an impressive yield of 37,182 pounds of vegetables in 1866 from both Hiswah and a new garden at Lahej, the continuation of Hiswah as a garden was deemed nonviable. The challenges, both financial and ecological, led to the abandonment of this ambitious project.

Hiswah in Later Years

In the years that followed, Hiswah's role in the region evolved. The area, once earmarked for its agricultural potential, transformed into a site for modern technological installations. It became the location for radar transmitting stations, marking a shift from its agricultural past to a role in the technological advancements of the region.

Hiswah's story is a fascinating blend of natural abundance, agricultural experimentation, and technological progress, reflecting the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of Aden and its surroundings.