Hissar

Hissar, a province of Bokhara, from which it is separated by a southern offset of the western prolongation of the Thian-Shan Mountains. This range forms its northern boundary. The country consists of a series of valleys, radiating from this mountainous background, and lying open on the south, traversed by streams which flow in general south or south-west to join the Oxus or Amu-Daria. The soil is fertile, and yields wheat, flax, cotton, rice, and garden fruits. Copper and rock-salt abound. The inhabitants (number not exactly known) are chiefly Usbegs and Tajiks. They export corn, salt, flax, and sheep to Bokhara. The main route from India to Bokhara passes through the province; and Hissar has its chief access with Bokhara, 230 miles to the north-west, through a celebrated pass called Kohlunga or the Iron Gate. The province was annexed by the emir of Bokhara in 1869. The capital is the town of Hissar, with 15,000 inhabitants, on the Kafirnihan River. Its people are noted sword-makers.