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FC 3212 K44 030.033 · Item · [1846?]
Part of Keenlyside Fur Trade Collection

Titled: "A Few Words on the Hudson's Bay Company." Written by Alexander Kennedy Isbister, and published by C. Gilpin in London, likely in 1846. This copy has been removed from a bound volume. It is a review of the status of the H.B.C. with petitions for redress of grievances.

Isbister, Alexander Kennedy
FC 3213 L55 019.058 · Item · August 28, 1846
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Red River Settlement

From: James Hargrave, York Factory

To: Reverend John Smithurst

Details: 2pp

Notes: A letter in which Hargrave writes about successfully arranging passage for another reverend and his wife to get to Red River. He also discusses the shipping of packages for Smithurst and Cowley that will be received by Mowat.


Mr. Hunter and Reverend Cockran are also mentioned. 


At the end of the letter Hargrave thanks Smithurst for his package of cucumbers and melons.

Hargrave, James
FC 3213 L55 019.023 · Item · 1846
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Cumberland Mission

Details: 2pp

Notes: Cumberland Mission list showing the accounts for making and packing bags and pemmican for Rev. Smithurst. Named individuals are: John Vincents, Thomas Logan, James Inkster, James MonKinun, William Bird, William Rob Smith, and Thomas Thomas.

FC 3213 L55 020.014 · Item · February 7, 1846
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Matlock Bath [Derbyshire, England]

From: A. Alsop

To: Rev’d John Smithurst, Church Missionary House, London

Delivery: Forwarded by the Church Missionary Society to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and thence by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 3pp + integral address face

Notes: In her annual letter to Rev. Smithurst, Anne Alsop sends news, largely relating various marriages, births, and deaths in the community. She mentions that William Wass died and Catherine [presumably her niece, Catherine Wasse] is ill with grief. Mr. George Saxton plans on enclosing a letter of his own to Rev. Smithurst. The winter was surprisingly mild. Anne Alsop now lives in Matlock Bath and is dismayed over the tenant who now resides in her old home, Sycamore Cottage. She adds a postscript commenting on the widespread speculation occurring as railroads are being built across England.

Alsop, Anne
FC 3213 L55 020.015 · Item · February 16, 1846
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Matlock Bath [Derbyshire, England]

From: G.W. Saxton

To: Rev. J. Smithurst

Delivery: Likely enclosed with Anne Alsop's letter of February 7, 1846.

Details: 3pp with integral address face

Notes: George W. Saxton was the secretary of the Matlock Church Missionary Society and writes this letter to reach out to Rev. Smithurst whom he admires for his missionary work. He mentions the Arkwright family, the church at Cromford, and the generous financial donations of Mr. Beaumont which have covered various expenses of the Matlock Bath church. Mr. Saxton goes into great detail about the Matlock Bath church and future plans. He mentions that his parents are dead and that his widowed brother preaches at the parish of Sutton Coldfield in Warwickshire.

Saxton, G. W. (George Withers)
FC 3213 L55 019.021 · Item · February 1, 1846
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Sawing tent [Cumberland Mission]

From: Hy Budd

To: Revd John Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Details: 3pp with integral address face

Notes: Henry Budd writes that Peter Erasmus is unable to provide the food to Budd that was promised, due to crop failure. Budd tried to have his account at York Factory transferred to the Red River Settlement, but the agents at York Factory will not cooperate and seem determined to have Budd spend the entire amount at their outpost. The fall fishing failed, and food at Cumberland Mission is scarce. Budd apologizes for his poor penmanship but the ink in his pen is freezing. He also relates that he has decided to continue his evangelical work, despite his earlier decision to quit.

Budd, Henry
FC 3213 L55 019.022 · Item · July 6, [between 1846-1854]
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Cumberland Station

From: Charles Thomas

To: Revd John Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Details: 1pp and integral address face

Notes: Charles Thomas is one of the baptized Natives living at Cumberland Station. In this letter to Rev. Smithurst, Thomas mentions Rev. Hunter, making it possible to date this letter between 1846 and 1854.

FC 3213 L55 020.016 · Item · March 19, 1846
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lower Fort [Garry]

From: Alex[ander] Christie Jr.

To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Delivery: Carried by courier

Details: 2pp + integral address face

Notes: Christie discusses the shipment of goods that were deficient in the last shipment. He informs Smithurst that there is no flannel to be had, nor jackets of any description.

Christie, Alexander Jr
FC 3213 L55 020.049 · Item · [1846-1850]
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: [Grand River]

From: A. Nelles

To: Townley

Details: 2pp

Notes: Reverend Abraham Nelles of the Mohawk Chapel for the Six Nations on Grand River writes to Reverend Adam Townley, thanking him for offering to give an account of the bishop's recent visit to the Mohawk. Rev. Nelles then relates some details of the visit and names some of the people who participated, including students of the Mohawk Institute school.

The letter is undated, but certain assumptions can be made.

  • Reverend Abraham Nelles refers to Reverend Adam Elliot, who took the position of missionary in the Grand River area in 1838.
  • Rev. Nelles then refers to the "young man Peter Martin who interpreted some of the speeches . . . & is now studying for ordination" which seems to be a reference to Oronhyatekha, the famous leader of the Independent Order of Foresters, who was baptized Peter Martin and attended the Mohawk Institute industrial school near the Grand River reserve from 1846–54.
  • "The chief who first addressed the Bishop is a Mohawk by name Johnson." This may be a reference to Chief John “Smoke” Johnson, who was well known for his oratorial gifts in the English and Mohawk languages. Smoke Johnson's son, George Henry Martin Johnson, served as interpreter for Rev. Elliot and lived with the missionary's family during the 1840s. Given the close relationship George Johnson had with the missionaries, it seems unlikely that he was the chief Rev. Nelles referred to by surname only.
    From these references, it appears this letter was written in the late 1840s.
Nelles, Abraham
FC 3213 L55 020.051 · Item · April 30, 1847
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lachine

From: Dun: Finlayson

To: Revd Inv: Smithurst, Red River Settlement

Delivery: Carried by Hudson’s Bay Company canoe brigade to the Red River Settlement.

Details: 3pp + integral address.

Notes: A letter sent by Duncan Finlayson, Hudson’s Bay Company Director, to Reverend John Smithurst. The letter details issues related to supplies of wheat, and comments on the problems of receiving publications from England. Finlayson also mentions that Reverend William Cockran spent the winter in Toronto with his family. Rev. Cockran’s children had been ill and his son John died.

Finlayson, Duncan
FC 3213 L55 020.017 · Item · January 31, 1847 & April 16, 1847
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Hudson’s Bay House, London [England]

From: W.G. Smith

To: Rev’d John Smithurst, R.R.S. [Red River Settlement]

Delivery: Forwarded to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and thence by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 1pp + integral address face

Notes: William Gregory Smith, a secretary at the Hudson’s Bay Company London office, acknowledges receipt of Smithurst’s letter dated August 4, 1846 containing two bills to be paid and credited to Mr. Cockran, also that six cases belonging to Mr. Cockran have arrived safely and “have not been lost sight of.”

An addition to the letter reads: “Your letter of the 17th Nov’r forwarded by Winter Packet has just come to hand. Sir George Simpson leaves tomorrow with the Express. I have therefore only time to say that every exertion shall be used to meet your wishes.”

Smith, William Gregory
FC 3213 L55 019.024 · Item · January 21, 1847
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Matlock Bath [Derbyshire, England]

From: G. W. Saxton

To: The Revd John Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River, N.W. America

Details: 4pp including integral address face.

Notes: Saxton writes about the clergymen and parishes in the neighbourhood of Matlock Bath. Mr. Ward, his wife, and two sons have all died. The remaining sons are “very unsteady.” Saxton’s local Church Missionary Society group has been busy fundraising. Saxton recently purchased a copy of the Bishop of Montreal’s journal and found it very interesting. He finishes the letter saying he’ll leave news of the new railway for Miss Alsop to write about.

Saxton, G. W. (George Withers)
FC 3213 L55 019.025 · Item · July 13, 1847
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Rivière du Pas, Cumberland Station

From: James Hunter

To: The Revd J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River

Details: 3pp and integral address face

Notes: Rev. Hunter is desperate for more flour. Rev. Hunter wants their fellow missionary, Rev. Cowley, to leave Partridge Crop and go to Lac la Ronge instead. He also received a letter from Rev. Cockran in Toronto. Rev. Hunter then offers a word of comfort to Rev. Smithurst who has been struggling spiritually recently.

Hunter, James
FC 3213 L55 020.020 · Item · [June 1, 1847]
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Church Missionary Society [London, England]

From: Church Missionary Society

To: Rev. J. Smithurst

Delivery: Forwarded by the Church Missionary Society to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: One (1) large sheet of paper + integral address face

Notes: An invoice, showing expenses and salary for the period May 31, 1846 to June 1, 1847.

Church Missionary Society
FC 3213 L55 020.018 · Item · March 29, 1847
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Church Missionary House [Islington, London, England]

From: Richard Davies

To: Brother Smithurst

Delivery: Forwarded by the Church Missionary Society to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 3pp on one sheet of paper.

Notes: Davies, a colleague of Smithurst’s in England, offers his thoughts and prayers to Smithurst as a letter from William Cochran has informed him that cholera has been rampant in the Red River district. Davies relates that dysentery claimed one of his own brothers in September. Davies also expresses hope that Mr. and Mrs. James have reached the Red River area safely and that Mr. James is able to relieve Smithurst of “some of the heavy duties which must have weighed on your mind as well as tried your physical powers.”

Other comments: “In many parts of Ireland too a severe pestilence is at this time raging and carrying off hundreds who hitherto have been spared by the grievous famine which has prevailed there and in some places in Scotland.”

FC 3213 L55 020.019 · Item · May 31, 1847
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Hudson’s Bay House, London [England]

From: W.G. Smith

To: Rev’d John Smithurst, RRS [Red River Settlement]

Delivery: Forwarded to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 1 pp (letter) + 2 pp (invoice) + integral address face

Notes: Hudson’s Bay Company secretary W.G. Smith mentions having received Smithurst’s letter of November 17, 1846 on April 16, 1847 and having written a brief acknowledgement that was included with the Spring Express. Smith appends an invoice for goods ordered (tea, gun powder, sugar, mustard, salt petre, soda, starch, pork, soap, etc.) and says these were shipped to Smithurst on board the “Westminster” via York Factory and Red River Settlement.

Smith, William Gregory
FC 3213 L55 019.026 · Item · April 24, 1848
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lower Fort Garry

From: John Black

To: Revd John Smithurst

Details: 2pp and integral address face.

Notes: John Black writes to Rev. Smithurst that he is sending along the requested nails by the bearer of this letter. Also, the flooding experienced the previous week resulted in 4 feet of water in the office, and significant ice damage to the distillery.

Black, John
FC 3213 L55 020.022 · Item · April 11, 1848
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Hudson’s Bay House, London [England]

From: W.G. Smith

To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, RRS [Red River Settlement]

Delivery: Forwarded to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 1 pp + integral address face with hand postal marking

Notes: Hudson’s Bay Company secretary W.G. Smith acknowledges Rev. Smithurst’s letter of November 23, 1847 which arrived by the Winter Packet. Smith apologizes and writes, “I regret to find that my worst fears, with regard to the loss and disappointment, likely to arise from the late arrival of the Westminster, have been fully realized.” Smith explains that, “[s]he had a most narrow escape and I believe that, had it not been for the 1st officer of the P[rince] Rupert, who was on board the Westminster when she was driven from her anchorage, both ship and cargo would have been lost.”

Smith goes on to say that Mr. Christie (at Red River) will refund Smithurst the overpayment made for the goods, caused by an accounting error.

Smith, William Gregory
FC 3213 L55 020.021 · Item · January 31, 1848
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Hudson’s Bay House, London [England]

From: W.G. Smith

To: Rev’d John Smithurst, RRS [Red River Settlement]

Delivery: Forwarded to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 1 pp (letter) + 1 pp (invoice) + integral address face with hand postal marking

Notes: Hudson’s Bay Company secretary W.G. Smith offers his apologies to Rev. Smithurst. The vessel "Westminster" carrying Smithurst's ordered goods, arrived too late in the season to be unloaded before the Red River-bound boats were sent off. Consequently, very few of the privately ordered goods reached Red River before the Spring.

Smith acknowledges receiving Smithurst's letter of August 6, 1847 which was brought by the vessel "Prince Rupert" in October, 1847. He further apologizes because of an error in the charges for the last shipment. Adjustments have been made accordingly to Smithurst's balance, a copy of which is appended to the letter.

Smith, William Gregory
FC 3213 L55 020.023 · Item · July 25, 1848
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Fort Snelling [Minnesota Territory]

From: E.G. Gear

To: The Rev. J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River

Delivery: Carried by courier (Peter Heyden)

Details: 1 pp + integral address face – written in pencil

Notes: Reverend E.G. Gear took the visit of Peter Heyden as an opportunity to send reading material to Rev. Smithurst, including the “English Churchman” and “Jesuits Letters.”

Gear, Ezekiel Gilbert
FC 3213 L55 019.027 · Item · May 1, 1848
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lachine

From: Dun: Finlayson

To: The Revd Jn Smithurst, Red River Settlement

Details: 2pp and integral address face

Notes: Duncan Finlayson writes to Rev. Smithurst. Sir George Simpson is travelling by steam to Sault de St. Marie soon. He answers questions about subscriptions to the New York Albion and the Church. Finlayson is startled by the new republics in France and Prussia, and the fear in Russia, Austria, and the Italian states. He also mentions that Ireland is in "a very disturbed State."

Finlayson, Duncan
FC 3213 L55 019.028 · Item · May 26, 1848
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Fort Snelling

From: E.G. Gear

To: The Rev. J. Smithurst., Indian Settlement, Red River

Details: 3pp and integral address face

Notes: Reverend E.G. Gear takes advantage of a group of travelling geologists to send Rev. Smithurst a letter and a small package. He mentions several publications, and references the "Hampden Case." He relates various pieces of news about the political unrest in Europe. He also expects hostilities to continue between the U.S. and Mexico. There is also an upcoming religious convention in Wisconsin.

Gear, Ezekiel Gilbert
FC 3213 L55 019.029 · Item · September 21, 1848
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Ross Ville

From: W. Mason

To: Rev. Mr. John Smithurst

Details: 1pp

Notes: Reverend William Mason sends the memoir of the late C. Atmore to Rev. Smithurst by way of Joe Bird. He also mentions "[y]our little Indian Work is in the press" referring to “A Vocabulary in English and Cree, compiled for the use of the Missionary Schools: Part First, Nouns” (Peel3 #257).

Mason, William
FC 3213 L55 019.030 · Item · January 14, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: [Red River Settlement]

From: Peter Garrioch

To: The Rev. Mr. J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Details: 4pp and integral address

Notes: Peter Garrioch credits Rev. James at the Middle Church with urging his congregation to remember their obligations to God for an abundant harvest. Garrioch took it upon himself to organize subscriptions of wheat from his neighbours to give to the missionaries.

Garrioch, Peter
FC 3213 L55 019.039 · Item · July 30, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Fort Snelling

From: E.G. Gear

To: The. Rev. J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement, British America

Details: 1pp and integral address face.

Notes: Rev. Gear just received Rev. Smithurst's package sent via Mr. Cook. He is especially happy to receive Church Missionary Society publications. He is also very sorry to hear about Rev. Smithurst's poor health. He has heard reports that cholera is making people sick in many U.S. ports, but it has yet to reach his community. The American President has called for a day of prayer because the epidemic is so bad. Rev. Gear heard that the Bishop of Rupert's Land has been consecrated.

Gear, Ezekiel Gilbert
FC 3213 L55 019.036 · Item · July 15, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lake Winnepeg, En route to Norway House

From: Henry Budd

To: the Reverend J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River

Details: 3pp and integral address face

Notes: Henry Budd offers his heartfelt thanks for the wheat subscriptions promised by parishioners at Red River. Budd has been busy building the church, and while he makes the point of saying that he does not mind the labour, he deeply regrets that it takes him away from educating his children.

Budd, Henry
FC 3213 L55 019.035 · Item · July 10, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Cumberland Station

From: Jas Hunter

To: The Revd. J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Details: 3pp and integral address face

Notes: Reverend James Hunter sends thanks to Peter Garrioch for organizing wheat subscriptions from the Red River Settlement to be sent to Cumberland Mission. Rev. Hunter is happy to hear that the Bishop is coming. He expresses concern at the growing unrest at Red River, and he acknowledges that Rev. Smithurst is talking of leaving.

Hunter, James
FC 3213 L55 019.037 · Item · July 20, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Fort Garry

From: John Ballenden

To: Revd John Smithurst, Indian Mission, Red River Settlement

Details: 1pp and integral address face

Notes: John Ballenden acknowledges receiving a letter from Rev. Smithurst from June 29th. He agrees that they need to limit cooperation between the Half Breeds & Indians, but he will not be opening a store at the Indian Mission because he cannot find a responsible person to run it.

Ballenden, John
FC 3213 L55 019.038 · Item · July 24, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Norway House

From: W. Mason

To: The Revd J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Details: 3 pp and integral address face

Notes: Reverend William Mason acknowledges that Rev. Smithurst is facing "ingratitude" at his parish. Rev. Mason complains that Red River freighters are trading illegally, and he mentions an interview with Sir George Simpson in which he got promises from Simpson that further funding will be provided for a Wesleyan Mission, and that converts will be allowed to observe the Sabbath when voyaging.

Mason, William
FC 3213 L55 019.034 · Item · June 4, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Fort Snelling

From: E.G. Gear

To: The Rev. J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River, British America

Details: 3pp and integral address face

Notes: Rev. Gear sends a letter to his friend via a military party headed to the U.S. border. Rev. Gear sends along reading material including magazines and a book about the new territories of New Mexico and California. Rev. Gear mentions the California gold rush, the revolutions in Europe, and the recent death of one of his daughters. A close friend, Dr. Rudor, has also died. Rev. Gear mentions that he preaches at a village called St. Paul's, and expects it will soon be named the government seat for the Minnesota Territory.

Gear, Ezekiel Gilbert
FC 3213 L55 019.031 · Item · [1849?]
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

A list with the heading "Subscriptions in Wheat, Barley or Peas, to be appropriated, exclusively, to the Rev. Mr Hunter's Station." Donations are promised by: Peter Garrioch, Henry Cook, William Gaddy, Robert Rowland, William Gibson, Peter Flett, Alexander Work, Sam Norn, James Slater, Henry Brown, James Taylor, William Taylor, Thomas Halcro Sr, Robert Miller, John Garrioch, and Samuel Cook.

FC 3213 L55 019.065 · Item · May 22, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Red River Settlement

From: Alexander Christie, Lower Fort Garry

To: Mrs. Jeny Hickenburger ; Reverend John Smithurst

Details: 2pp

Notes: A pair of letters both written on the same day concerning the same matter. The first is written to "Mrs. Jenny Hickenburger" and the other to Reverend Smithurst regarding the death of Jenny Hickenburger's father. The letter requests that she attends Christie's office to sign the necessary paperwork for her to inherit her father's money. The letter to Smithurst requests his assistance in ensuring that his cousin does not redeem her HBC stock and instead accepts £9 per year as income.

Christie, Alexander
FC 3213 L55 019.033 · Item · May 19, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Church Missionary House, London [England]

From: Church Missionary Society

To: Revd. J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement, North West America

Details: 1pp

Notes: A list of goods ordered by Rev. Smithurst and shipped via the "Prince Rupert" ship under the command of Captain Herd, sailing for North West America. Items include a map, books, newspapers, and reports.

Church Missionary Society
FC 3213 L55 020.026 · Item · May 8, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Matlock Bath [Derbyshire, England]

From: Geo W. Saxton

To: Rev. John Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River, N.W. America

Delivery: Forwarded by the Christian Missionary Society to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 3.5 pp + integral address face

Notes: George W. Saxton was the secretary of the Matlock Church Missionary Society in England and writes a lengthy letter to Smithurst describing in detail the various activities, events, and people in the news.

Saxton, G. W. (George Withers)
FC 3213 L55 020.027 · Item · [May 31, 1849]
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: London [England]

From: Church Missionary Society

To: Rev. J. Smithurst

Delivery: Forwarded by the Christian Missionary Society to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 1pp invoice

Notes: An invoice, showing shipping charges on the "Prince Rupert" taken against Smithurst's balance over the period April 5 to May 31, 1849.

Church Missionary Society
FC 3213 L55 020.025 · Item · May 7, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: No. 54 Fleet Street, London [England]

From: R.B. & G. Seeley

To: Rev. Smithurst, c/o Church Missionary Society

Delivery: Forwarded to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 1 pp invoice

Notes: Smithurst’s book order from the firm R.B. & G. Seeley, London. Titles include: The Holy Lamp, Gallery of Arts, Old English Worthies, and Nautical Almanac for 1850.

FC 3213 L55 019.042 · Item · October 1, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Ross Ville

From: W. Mason

To: Revd. John Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Details: 3pp

Notes: Reverend William Mason writes to his colleague, Rev. John Smithurst. Rev. Mason comments that since the freight boats came through, the local Natives have been excited about the possibility of free trade breaking the Hudson's Bay Company monopoly. Rev. Mason considers their feelings of discontent to be inconsiderate and he is angry that some members of his congregation tried to contact Bishop David Anderson with their grievances. Rev. Mason is "determined not to comply with any of their unreasonable requests for [he would] only be increasing the natural selfishness of their minds." On the matter of his printing press, they did not receive paper in the most recent shipment and therefore plan on spending the winter translating. His opinion is that the "Indian Characters" should be used to reach the adult population.

Mason, William
FC 3213 L55 020.050 · Item · October 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Guelph

From: William Reynolds

To: James Geddes Esqu, Elora

Details: One sheet of paper with integral address, and one small slip of paper

Notes: William Reynolds writes to James Geddes regarding a workman named Jones who has failed to satisfy his contract. Reynolds agrees they should enter into an agreement with Hall instead. John Marsh is living with Geddes and is anxious to move out.

The small slip of paper is a written promise from John W. Marsh to pay next time.

FC 3213 L55 019.067 · Item · September 25, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Red River Settlement

From: James Hunter, Norway House

To: Reverend John Smithurst

Details: 3pp

Notes: Hunter goes into detail about the visit of the Bishop of Prince Rupert’s Land. 
He also writes of matters of business regarding food supplies for the winter, the price of freight from Red River to Norway House and the construction of the Church.

FC 3213 L55 019.041 · Item · September 21, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Partridge Crop

From: Abraham Cowley

To: Rev. Mr. Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River

Details: 2pp

Notes: Rev. Cowley writes that his wife and children arrived from Red River safely. He thanks Rev. Smithurst for sending reading materials. He is also glad to hear that Rev. Smithurst's congregation is treating him better. He expects to travel to Red River during the winter and asks that Rev. Smithurst set aside some peas and beans for him for the spring, as the black birds and frost have destroyed his.

Cowley, Abraham
FC 3213 L55 019.040 · Item · September 17, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lower Fort Garry

From: John Black

To: The Revd John Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Details: 1pp with integral address face.

Notes: John Black refers to paying a courier on William Badger's account. He is sorry to hear that William Thomas has died, but does not believe there will be a coroner's inquest.

Black, John
FC 3213 L55 020.028 · Item · September 13, 1849
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lower Fort Garry

From: W. Lane

To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Delivery: Local courier (probably Hudson’s Bay Company courier)

Details: 1pp + integral address face

Notes: A short letter by William Douglas Lane, Postmaster at Lower Fort Garry, noting that he is sending copies of Smithurst’s accounts. The reverse of the letter is covered with columns of numbers, lists, and calculations.

Lane, William Douglas
FC 3212 K44 103.003 · Item · [185-]
Part of Keenlyside Fur Trade Collection

Titled: British Columbia. Proclamation.
Proclaims James Douglas to have the ability to make laws, institutions and ordinances for the governance of British Columbia, along with the ability to acquire un-surveyed land in British Columbia for British subjects.

FC 219 H26 Item 1.2.5.4 · Item · [between 1905 and 1912]
Part of Byron Harmon Photos Collection

Printed postcard published by Consolidated Stationery Co., Ltd, Winnipeg and printed in Saxony of Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier. Postcard is from the On Line Canadian Pacific Railway Harmon series.

FC 3213 L55 019.045 · Item · August 17, 1850
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Norway House

From: Don Ross

To: Reverend J Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River

Details: 2pp and an envelope

Notes: A private letter written quickly by Donald Ross to Rev. John Smithurst. He vaguely refers to trouble involving Mr. Hunter, and also refuses to comment on an unidentified situation.

Ross, Donald
FC 3213 L55 019.044 · Item · February 15, 1850
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Partridge Crop

From: A. Cowley

To: The Rev Mr. Smithurst, Red River Settlement

Details: 3pp including address face

Notes: Rev. Abraham Cowley writes about his recent journey back to Partridge Crop from the Red River Settlement. He came close to getting severe frostbite, partly through his own fault. The Native population at Partridge Crop is facing starvation due to the collapse of the local rabbit population. Rev. Cowley is scared of the cholera that is spreading in Europe, but a more pressing concern is that John Mackay is threatening to quit on him. Rev. Cowley also forgot to pick up seeds while he was in Red River [see his letter of September 1849, in which he was already asking for seeds].

Cowley, Abraham
FC 3213 L55 020.029 · Item · January 31, 1850 & April 3, 1850
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Hudson’s Bay House, London [England]

From: W.G. Smith

To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, RRS [Red River Settlement]

Delivery: Forwarded to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 2pp + integral address face

Notes: Hudson’s Bay Company secretary William Gregory Smith discusses a request by Rev. Smithurst to submit money to the Hudson's Bay Company for interest. As mentioned to Smithurst by Sir George Simpson, the Company can do so only for money earned through the company. Smith did approach the Governor and Committee on Smithurst’s behalf, but they refused the request.

Also mentioned is business regarding a Mr. Henry Cook and the property of his deceased father. A postscript dated April 3, 1850, indicates Smith received additional papers from Rev. Smithurst regarding the late Joseph Cook, presumably Henry Cook's father, but he does not have time to process these before the Spring Packet leaves London.

An additional note scrawled in a different handwriting is written on the integral address face and mentions Cook and money.

Smith, William Gregory
FC 3213 L55 019.043 · Item · January 10, 1850
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Ross Ville

From: W. Mason

To: Revd. John Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River

Details: 3pp and cover envelope

Notes: Reverend William Mason writes to his colleague, Rev. John Smithurst. Rev. Mason believes that previous efforts that focused on giving to the Natives is destroying them, so instead he teaches the Natives to give labour and goods to the mission as part of their obligation to "send the Gospel to the Heathen." He asks for Rev. Smithurst's assistance in obtaining two dozen Common Prayer books which he then intends to sell to the Natives for a low price. In a lengthy postscript, Rev. Mason asks how Rev. Smithurst's book of vocabulary is proceeding, and says that they have a new edition of the Prayer Book ready to print, but are out of paper. The plan is to continue work on translating the New Testament over the winter.

Mason, William
FC 3212 K44 102.004 · Item · August 27, 1850
Part of Keenlyside Fur Trade Collection

Handwritten letter from Donald Ross, Chief Factor of Norway House, to his friend James Keith in Aberdeen [Scotland]. James Keith was formerly the Chief Factor at Fort Chipewyan. In this letter, Ross writes about the poor mood he's suffered over the past year, laments the scarcity of furred animals, and predicts that gold will be the basis for the Hudson's Bay Company profits in the future. He expresses doubt that profits from coal will ever amount to much.

Ross, Donald
FC 3213 L55 019.046 · Item · November 21, 1850
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Hudson's Bay House, London [England]

From: W.G. Smith

To: Revd John Smithurst, Red River Settlement

Details: 3pp and integral address face

Notes: Mr. Smith writes to Rev. Smithurst regarding financial matters. He comments that money is cheap due to the influx of gold from California.

Smith, William Gregory
FC 3212 K44 030.034 · Item · July 12, 1850
Part of Keenlyside Fur Trade Collection

Docket reads: "Papers relating to the Legality of the Powers in respect to Territory, Trade, Taxation and Government claimed or exercised by the Hudson's Bay Company, on the Continent of North America, under the Charter of Charles the Second, or in Virtue of any other Right or Title. Ordered by The House of Commons, to be Printed, 12 July 1850."

A look at the rights claimed by the Hudson's Bay Company, including copies of correspondence, replies, opinions, and a map.

FC 3213 L55 020.030 · Item · September 24, 1850
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: [Lower Fort Garry]

From: W[illiam Douglas] Lane

To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Delivery: Local courier (probably Hudson’s Bay Company courier)

Details: 2pp + integral address face

Notes: A short letter from William Douglas Lane, Postmaster at Lower Fort Garry, noting that the 10 lbs of nails that Rev. Smithurst requested are being sent, and fresh beef will be available shortly. Lane also thanks Smithurst for recovering some goods stolen [from Lower Fort Garry] by young Flett, while expressing his suspicion that William Tait put the boy up to it, but Lane intends to “do all in my power to get the young scamp punished.”

Lane, William Douglas
1850—1859
FC 3207 F85 1.8 · Series · 1850 - 1858
Part of Fur Trade Collection

This series contains all items in the collection created between 1850 and 1859.

FC 3213 L55 020.032 · Item · February 21, 1851
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Matlock Bath [Derbyshire, England]

From: G.W. Saxton

To: Rev. John Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River, N.W. America

Delivery: Forwarded by the Christian Missionary Society to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 4pp + integral address face

Notes: George W. Saxton writes a lengthy letter to Reverend Smithurst describing deaths in the neighbourhood, fundraising activities for the Church Missionary Society, and clergymen at local parishes.

Saxton, G. W. (George Withers)
FC 3213 L55 020.033 · Item · February 27, 1851
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Middleton [Derbyshire, England]

From: William Buckley

To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, Church Mission House, Salisbury Square, Fleet Street, London

Delivery: Forwarded by the Christian Missionary Society to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier to the Indian Settlement at Netley Creek

Details: 4pp + addressed envelope with postal marks (stamp removed)

Notes: William Buckley writes from England to his friend, Reverend Smithurst. Buckley mentions that cholera has killed thousands in Jamaica. He gives a detailed account of the death of his brother Francis, who died the previous November after several months of illness. William Buckley is admiring of the deep faith in God and heaven which his brother maintained. He then gives news of people they both know. He mentions Mr. Wass, Mr. Hubbersty, Mr. John Wathy, and Rev. Smithurst’s brother George and his troubles. Buckley then complains about the “radical party headed by Messrs Everett, Dunn & Griffith, assisted by the Editor of the socalled Wesleyan Times.” He blames these radicals for spreading discord, as eight local preachers have joined these “Agitators.” He mentions Mr. Greville, Mr. Jones, Mr. Barker, Mr. Harward Senior, and Mr. Frederic Harward. Mr. Alfred Alsop plans on having a business at the Viagellia [Via Gellia] Works in Bonsall. William Buckley mentions that Mr. Mason speaks highly of the new Bishop of Rupert’s Land [David Anderson]. “Mr. Mason” is presumably Reverend William Mason. Buckley mentions there is political dissatisfaction with Lord John Russell’s handling of the Pope’s proposed papal hierarchy. There is excitement for the “Exhibition of the works of arts of all nations at London” and Buckley expects the census next year to be a great deal of work for the Registrars.

Buckley, William
FC 3213 L55 020.031 · Item · January 28, 1851
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: [Grand] Rapids

From: Robert James

To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Delivery: Local courier

Details: 1pp + integral address face

Notes: Reverend Robert James conveys the bishop's [Bishop David Anderson] instructions to Reverend Smithurst that the Journals be sent by the next packet, which will be sent in mid-February. Reverend Cowley is also mentioned.

James, Robert
FC 3213 L55 019.050 · Item · June 4, 1851
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Red River Settlement

From: Wm Cockran

To: Rev. John Smithurst, Upper Fort Garry

Details: 3pp and integral address face

Notes: Reverend William Cockran writes that he only just heard through Major Caldwell that Rev. Smithurst was leaving for England with Henry Cook in a few days. Rev. Cockran says he is sorry he cannot see Rev. Smithurst in person, but he is too busy preparing to form a settlement at Portage la Prairie. He then writes about the difficulties in getting a thrashing machine and asks Rev. Smithurst to inquire in the United States if a machine can be imported from there. He then complains about Adam Thom and Governor Colville throwing obstacles in the way of getting this new settlement established. Rev. Cockran then returns to the issue of Rev. Smithurst leaving and expresses his sadness that Smithurst and his congregation have had such a falling out. He then prays that God will grant Rev. Smithurst repentance. He asks Rev. Smithurst to send financial aid back to Red River to help pay for the building of a new stone church.

Cockran, William
FC 3213 L55 020.035 · Item · June 2, 1851
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lower Fort Garry

From: W[illiam Douglas] Lane

To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement

Delivery: Local courier (probably Hudson’s Bay Company courier)

Details: 1pp + integral address face

Notes: A short letter by William Douglas Lane, Postmaster at Lower Fort Garry, discussing the payment of bills, refunding of money, and receipt of a flute.

Lane, William Douglas
FC 3213 L55 019.070 · Item · March 8, 1851
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Red River Settlement

From: Reverend Abraham Cowley, Partridge Crop

To: Reverend John Smithurst

Details: 3pp

Notes: Partridge Crop was a missionary outpost on the northern reaches of Lake Manitoba, and was later renamed Fairford in 1851 by Bishop Anderson.

The outpost was on the left bank of the Partridge Crop River and was established by McNap for Winter trading with the Indigenous people. The lengthy letter from Cowley mentions topics such as the recent arrival of the bishop, his meeting of confirmation candidates and inspecting the school.

This letter would have travelled by canoe down Lake Winnipeg to the Red River.

Cowley, Abraham
FC 3213 L55 019.049 · Item · May 28, 1851
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lac La Ronge, C.M.L. Station

From: James Settee

To: The Reverend J. Smithurst,
Indian Settlement (crossed out),
Church Missionary House, Salisbury Square, London (crossed out),
Middleton, Wirksworth, Derbyshire

Details: 3pp and integral address face

Notes: James Settee writes to Rev. Smithurst on a number of matters. He says that Thomas Cook brought Rev. Smithurst's last letter to him and told Settee that Rev. Smithurst was suffering badly from rheumatism. Settee says both he and his wife also suffer from rheumatism, which he blames on the cold climate. Settee is about to leave on a long journey to Norway House, and he mentions that the baptized Natives object to working on Sundays, but Settee feels that the portages would be impossible without the help of the Hudson's Bay Company boats and so they must work on the Sabbath to keep up. The mission at Lac La Ronge is doing well, and Settee hopes to writes to Rev. Smithurst again once he reaches Norway House.

While written in May, this letter has a cancellation for Sault Ste Marie, C.W. in September. The letter then made its way to Church Missionary House in London, England where it was then redirected to Middleton, Wirksworth, Derbyshire.

Settee, James
FC 3213 L55 020.034 · Item · May 12, 1851
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Liverpool [England]

From: John H. Johnson

To: To The Right Rev’d D. Anderson, Lord Bishop of Rupert’s Land, North West America

Delivery: Forwarded by the Christian Missionary Society to Red River Settlement via Hudson’s Bay Company supply ship and canoe brigade, and then by courier

Details: 4pp + 4 newsletters + addressed envelope

Notes: Johnson writes to Bishop David Anderson to propose establishing an annual donation from St. Andrew's Church in Liverpool, England to the Christian Missionary Society in Rupert's Land. Johnson hopes to establish a link between the two groups and he hopes to see the initial donation of 5£ be surpassed in future years. Johnson intends that this letter be sent to Reverend John Smithurst and be "left open for his perusal as probably he may have some suggestions to make before sending it to you."

With his letter, he includes four (4) issues of “St. Andrew’s Monthly Paper.” Each issue consists of a single sheet of paper that measures only 14.5 x 12 cm when unfolded. Includes February, March, April, and May issues for 1851.

Interesting facts: St. Andrew's Church is located on Renshaw Street. Reverend T.C. Cowan is Minister. Issues are printed by Richard C. Scragg, Printer, 75, Renshaw Street. The District of St. Andrew's has a population of "about 6,000." Average monthly attendance at the Day School and Sunday School is approximately 250 each, and is broken down for Boys, Girls, and Infants.

FC 3213 L55 019.051 · Item · October 21, 1851
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Hudson's Bay House, London [England]

From: W.G. Smith

To: Revd John Smithurst, Middleton, Wirksworth, Derbyshire [England]

Details: 2pp

Notes: In this letter, Mr. Smith writes to Rev. Smithurst to let him know that his packages have arrived in England and he will forward them by train.

Smith, William Gregory
FC 3213 L55 020.036 · Item · February 23, 1852
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Hudson’s Bay House, London [England]

From: W.G. Smith

To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, Wirksworth, Derbyshire (England)

Delivery: Great Britain mail

Details: 3pp + addressed envelope with postal marks (stamp removed)

Notes: Hudson’s Bay Company secretary W.G. Smith writes to say he is glad that Rev. Smithurst is enjoying himself upon his return to England, and discusses some outstanding balances due, including money from Henry Cook. He also mentions that he has a received large order from Rev. Cockran for blankets to be distributed to the Indians of his old mission.

Smith, William Gregory
FC 3213 L55 019.072 · Item · January 29, 1852
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Salisbury Street, Ireland

From: John Chapman, Missionary at Middle Church

To: Reverend John Smithurst, 18 Salisbury Street, Ireland

Details: 2pp

Notes: Chapman thanks Smithurst for newspapers and of his letter detailing his route to New York. He also discusses the status of the congregation and the building of a new church.

Chapman, John
1853-55 Fort Simpson Journal
FC 3212 K44 030.035 · Item · September 1, 1853 - April 30, 1855
Part of Keenlyside Fur Trade Collection

From the first report provided by the donor (see notes on accompanying materials below): "The Fort Simpson Journal contains the expected daily and routine entries on weather conditions, entertaining descriptions of the laborers and their occupations, and general comments on trading activities. The journal also contains a plethora of lengthy and intensely interesting entries describing specific activities and events hitherto unknown and unrecorded elsewhere."

The author of the Fort Simpson journal is William Henry McNeill (1801-1875). He does not name himself in the journal itself, but the donor has provided research identifying him through HBC Archives documents. McNeill took charge of Fort Simpson in 1851, was appointed Chief Factor in 1856, left from 1859-1861, before finally departing the fort in 1863. The town of Port McNeill on Vancouver Island is named for him.

The Hudson's Bay Company founded Fort Simpson, which eventually developed into Port Simpson and later Lax Kw'alaams. It is located on the coast of British Columbia.

McNeill, William Henry
FC 3213 L55 020.049 · Item · December 31, 1855
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Sandwich [now Windsor, ON]

From: Edward H. Dewar

To: Townley

Details: 3 pp

Notes: Rev. Dewar and Rev. Adam Townley were the editors of the "Churchman's Friend" magazine. In this letter, Rev. Dewar writes about editorial business, including subscribers, plans for articles, and printing.

Dewar, Edward H.
FC 3213 L55 020.049 · Item · December 20, 1855
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Munsee Town, Ekfrid P.O. [Ontario]

From: Henry C. Hogg

To: The Editors of the Churchman’s Friend

Details: 1pp. Someone has written in ink on the outside “Henry C. Hogg Esq. Dec/55” signed? underneath with the initials “AM” or “OM”

Notes: Edward Dewar and Adam Townley were the editors of the "Churchman's Friend" magazine. Mr. Hogg writes to them requesting a replacement copy as his subscription copy did not reach him.

FC 3213 L55 020.049 · Item · January 11, 1856
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Sandwich [now Windsor, ON]

From: Edward H. Dewar

To: Townley

Details: 3pp

Notes: Rev. Dewar and Rev. Adam Townley were co-editors of the “Churchman’s Friend” magazine. In this letter, Rev. Dewar writes about editorial matters, including the bursting of an envelope bound for Toronto, the decision to not include several articles in the coming issue, and the first complaint letter.

Dewar, Edward H.
FC 3213 L55 020.050 · Item · November 25, 1856
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Newark, N.J. [New Jersey]

From: U. Goodman

To: unknown

Details: 4 pp

Notes: The unknown clergyman who received this letter ordered a bundle of 700 pamphlets of the second edition of a treatise arguing against "that evident power of the Devil, the public school system of America." The writer mentions a controversy involving the High School of Boston and another incident which he refers to as "the Denison case in the Mother Land."

FC 3213 L55 020.039 · Item · April 21, 1857
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Saint James, Assiniboia [Red River Settlement]

From: W. H. Taylor

To: Rev. J. Smithurst, Harriston [Ontario]

Delivery: Postal system in Canada

Details: 16pp + addressed envelope with postal marks

Notes: A long and detailed letter from Reverend William Henry Taylor of Saint James parish along the Assiniboine River. Rev. Taylor writes to Rev. John Smithurst, updating him on the Red River Settlement. Much of the news has to do with repairing the extensive damage caused by the great flood in 1852. No one seems to be able to find enough workers for these repairs.

Mentioned are:
Father E.G. Gear, who broke his leg.
Mr. Robert Logan and Mrs. Logan, who are living near where the flax mill stood.
Old Mr. Pritchard and his wife died.
Their son, Sam Pritchard, teaches at St. Paul's school. His brother, Arelui (?), married.
Mr. Smith the Collector and Mr. Pruden are briefly mentioned.
Rev. Abraham Cowley and Mrs. Cowley are mentioned multiple times. Rev. Cowley now has a Seraphine instrument which Mrs. Cowley plays during services. Rev. Cowley also has detailed plans for the repair and renovation of his church.
Archdeacon James Hunter now has a barrel organ at the Rapids church (also known as St. Andrew's).
Thomas Cook is catechist at Nepowewin mission. Rev. Henry Budd says the work there is difficult.
Rev. Robert Hunt is at English River, also known as the Stanley mission near Lac la Ronge, and he is building an expensive and impressive church.
Rev. Henry Budd is at The Pas with a young Rev. Henry George, but plans to leave for Nepowewin permanently in the Spring.
Rev. William Stagg is struggling at Manitoba.
Rev. Kirkby is still assistant at St. Andrew's.
McDonald is at Islington (White Dog) but has health problems.
Watkins is leaving Fort George possibly for Cumberland.
Rev. William Mason has success in his work, but following the Bishop's visit, disease broke out and killed multiple Natives. Small pox is rampant among the Plains people in the area of Beaver Creek and Touchwood Hills.
The steam mill is producing excellent flour.
Political unrest as renewal of the Hudson's Bay Company's charter is being debated in England. A Mr. Kennedy and Donald Gunn have written and circulated a petition to the Canadian Legislature urging them to become involved.

Taylor, William Henry
FC 3212 K44 103.001 · Item · 3 August 1857
Part of Keenlyside Fur Trade Collection

On the cover: Vancouver's Island-Return to an Address of the Honourable The house of Commons, dated 25 June 1857;-for "Copies of Extracts of any Despatches that have been received by Her Majesty's Secretary of State for the Colonies, on the subject of the Establishment of a Representative Assembly at Vancouver's Island."

Document is a compilation of Despatches, (original spelling), from the Right Hon. H. Labouchere, M.P., and from Governor Douglas, regarding correspondence relating to the establishment of a representative assembly at Vancouver's Island. All pages are typewritten, with minor foxing along the edges.

FC 3212 K44 102.008 · Item · June 16, 1857
Part of Keenlyside Fur Trade Collection

From the docket: “Hudson’s Bay Company. Copy of the Letter addressed by Mr. Chief Justice Draper to Her Majesty’s Secretary of State for the Colonies, bearing date the 6th day of May 1857, together with a Copy of the Memorandum therein referred to, relative to the Hudson’s Bay Company. (Mr. Labouchere.) Ordered, by The House of Commons, to be Printed, 16 June 1857.”

This letter and enclosure request that British Parliament settle the question of the exact boundaries between the Hudson's Bay Company and the Province of Canada. From page 5: "The rights of the Hudson’s Bay Company, whatever they may be, are derived from the Crown; the Province of Canada has its boundaries assigned by the same authority; and now that it appears to be indispensable that those boundaries should be settled, and the true limits of Canada ascertained, it is to Her Majesty’s Government that the Province appeals to take such steps as in its wisdom are deemed fitting or necessary to have this important question set at rest.”

FC 3213 L55 020.038 · Item · January 5, 1857
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Fort Snelling, Minnesota Territory

From: E.G. Gear

To: Rev & dear Brother [likely Rev. J. Smithurst]

Delivery: unknown

Details: Letter fragment. 4pp

Notes: While unsigned, this letter fragment is obviously authored by Rev. E.G. Gear, both from the address at Fort Snelling and from the unique handwriting. It was likely sent to Reverend John Smithurst. In this letter, Rev. Gear describes a riding accident where he broke his leg below the knee.

Gear, Ezekiel Gilbert
FC 3213 L55 020.049 · Item · May 23, 1857
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Windsor

From: Edward H. Dewar

To: Townley

Details: 4 pp

Notes: Rev. Dewar and Rev. Adam Townley were the editors of the "Churchman's Friend" magazine. In this letter, Rev. Dewar scolds Rev. Townley for not submitting an article for the coming issue. Rev. Dewar points out that he has more than enough trouble from his church, where roof repairs cannot continue due to lack of money. He then relates how dismayed he is at the behaviour of two young women in his congregation who tried to run off to a Catholic convent. Rev. Dewar interfered and the ladies will no longer speak to him. He discusses strategy surrounding the upcoming Synod, criticizing the bishop's plans. In a postscript, he refers to two upcoming articles, one on "Spirit-rapping & Popery" and another which he intends to write as the start of a series about missionary life in Canada.

Dewar, Edward H.
FC 3213 L55 020.043 · Item · November 8, 1857
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Toronto

From: John Toronto

To: Rev. A. Palmer

Details: 4pp

Notes: A copy of a private letter written by John Strachan, Bishop of Toronto to Rev. Arthur Palmer of Guelph, Canada West.

In this letter, Bishop Strachan responds to a letter written by Rev. Palmer which enclosed a letter sent to him by Mr. Geddes, a prominent member of the congregation at Elora. The bishop expresses anger and frustration with Reverend John Smithurst for abandoning his parish at Elora and refusing to tender his resignation. Mr. Geddes proposed a solution to the impasse, but the bishop gives detailed reasons why the proposal in unacceptable. Bishop Strachan plans to appoint a commission to investigate Rev. Smithurst's conduct.

The context of this letter is confusing, given that Bethune, Palmer, and Osler had already visited Elora and completed a report on Rev. Smithurst's absence dated October 22, 1857. Also, Rev. Smithurst indicated in his letter of November 3 to the Elora congregation that he had resigned. Perhaps a delayed postal delivery is to blame for this confusion.

Strachan, John
FC 3213 L55 020.042 · Item · November 3, 1857
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Lea Hurst, Minto [Ontario]

From: John Smithurst

To: The C.W, Pewholders and other members of the St. Johns Ch Elora

Details: 4pp

Notes: This document is the rough draft of Reverend Smithurst’s letter of thanks to his congregation for their expression of kindness as he leaves Elora. Addressed to the Church Wardens, Pewholders, and congregation at large of St. John's in Elora, he cites the loss of his voice as one of the reasons for leaving. In a postscript, he says that the bishop [John Strachan] has offered him a compromise on the issue of wages still owing. By accepting this compromise, Smithurst wishes to protect the Church from scandal.

Smithurst, John
FC 3213 L55 020.041 · Item · October 22, 1857
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Guelph [Ontario]

From: A.N. Bethune, Archdeacon of York; Arthur Palmer, Rector of Guelph & Rural Dean; F.L. Osler, Rector of Ancaster cum Dundas & Rural Dean

To: Bishop of Toronto

Delivery: unknown

Details: 4pp (secretarial copy)

Notes: A copy of the report submitted by Bethune, Palmer, and Osler on their inquiry into John Smithurst’s absence from his missionary post at Elora in the county of Wellington in the diocese of Toronto. John Strachan, Bishop of Toronto, requested these men investigate the allegation that Reverend Smithurst abandoned his post without permission. Churchwardens William Reynolds and J.S. Crossman in Elora confirmed that Rev. Smithurst had been largely absent since the end of April, sometimes remaining only a week at a time. The Churchwardens said Rev. Smithurst was unable “to read or preach in a tone of voice audible to all the members of his congregation; but admitted that his bodily health was on the whole vigorous.” Andrew Geddes confirmed the frequent absence of Rev. Smithurst, who is said to have taken up residence in the township of Minto. The report recommends the Bishop demand Rev. Smithurst's resignation.

Bethune, Alexander Neil
FC 3213 L55 020.050 · Item · October 28, 1857
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Trinity College Toronto

From: George Whitaker

To: unknown

Details: Trinity College Toronto blue letterhead, one sheet of paper

Notes: A letter written by George Whitaker in his role as provost at Trinity College. He responds to a student who will receive his Master of Arts degree on November 12. The student also inquired about working for the college, to which Whitaker expresses interest.

Whitaker, George
FC 3213 L55 020.040 · Item · October 20, 1857
Part of Life, Events, and Players in the North-West

Place: Elora [Ontario]

From: the Congregation of St. John's Church, Elora

To: Rev’d John Smithurst

Delivery: unknown

Details: 2pp

Notes: Upon Rev. John Smithurst’s resignation from St. John's Church in Elora, on the grounds of his inability to continue to perform the duties of his office, his congregation presented this petition to him in appreciation of his contributions to them and their community.

The petition is signed by 29 parishioners. Two surnames could not be deciphered.

William Reynolds, Church Warden
John S. Crossman, Church Warden

John Burke
William Carter
George Crane
F Dalby
Thomas Farrow
Andrew Geddes
Thomas Greathead
D. Henderroll(?)
Edwin Henry Kertland
George W. Kirkendall
John J. Marten
Valentine McKenzie
John M. McLean
Edw H. Newman
Richard Newman
Robert M. Newman
Walter P. Newman
Philip Pepler
James Reynolds
William Reynolds
Hugh Roberts
James L. Ross
David Smith
David Smith Jr.
Henry Smith

FC 3212 K44 103.002 · Item · 26 February 1858
Part of Keenlyside Fur Trade Collection

On the cover: Hudson's Bay Company-Return to an Address of the Honourable The House of Commons, dated 16 February 1858;-for, "Copies or Extracts of any Correspondence that has taken place between the Colonial Office and the Hudson's Bay Company, or the Government of Canada, in consequence of the Report of the Select Committee on the Affairs of the Company which sat in the last Session of Parliament."