Appenzell

Appenzell (from Abbatis Cella), a double canton in the NE. of Switzerland. It is divided into two divisions—Innerroden and Ausserroden; the former of which is peopled by Roman Catholics; the latter by Protestants, and noted for its dense population. The surface is mountainous, especially in the south, where Mont Sentis attains an elevation of 8220 feet. The chief river is the Sittren, which flows through the centre of the canton. The constitution of the half cantons, each differing from that of the other in many details, is in each case a pure democracy. The inhabitants are chiefly employed in agriculture and cattle-keeping; in Ausserroden, however, there are cotton manufactures and embroidery carried on. The dialect is peculiar, and the Appenzellers wear a characteristic costume. The canton, once dependent on the Abbey of St Gall, won its independence after a struggle, and joined the seven old cantons in 1452. Area, 163 sq. m.; pop. (1888) 67,106, of whom 54,200 are in Ausserroden.—Appenzell, capital of the canton, is situated on the left bank of the Sittren, beneath the Sentis; pop. 4500 (170 Protestants). It has old timbered houses, two convents, and a small trade in linen; and is 14 miles by rail SE. of Herisau (q.v.), the largest town in the canton.