Private correspondence from Alexander Roderick McLeod at Fort Resolution to John Stuart, HBC fur trader. Mailed c/o James Hargrave at Fort Garry, reaching John Stuart at Finchurch Street, Hudson's Bay House, London.
McLeod, Alexander RoderickReport on the total returns of the Saskatchewan District outfit in the year 1836. The small transcribed excerpt lists a few furs included in the list.
The report lists quantities of furs, leather products, clothing, and food products produced by the district that were brought to Norway House. The report also includes items brought from New Caledonia and Cumberland. The letter is signed "E. E." at York Factory.
Private correspondence from Alexander McLeod at Fort Resolution to John Stuart, c/o James Hargrave at Fort Garry, reaching Stuart at Finchurch Street, Hudson's Bay House, London.
McLeod writes of his personal affairs, including the slander and criticisms towards his handling of fur trading business.
An unidentified manuscript. Many lines are crossed out and words have been written in the margin.
The bulk of this collection of correspondence was written between 1838 and 1862, and addressed to Reverend John Smithurst, “Indian Settlement, Red River, North America.” The “Indian Settlement” was the home of Chief Peguis and his people, the Saulteaux, located at Netley Creek, a branch of the Red River south of Lake Winnipeg. Following his resignation in 1851, Rev. Smithurst immigrated to Canada West and settled in Elora and then Minto in what is now Ontario.
Rev. Smithurst was an Anglican missionary sent by the Church Missionary Society from England to Rupert’s Land to convert the First Nations and Metis peoples of the area known broadly as the Red River Settlement; modern-day Winnipeg, Manitoba encompasses many sites that made up the settlement. Ministering to the “Indians” and “Half-Breeds,” Rev. Smithurst was one of the handful of missionaries west of Canada during a period of social and political unrest, economic upheaval, starvation, disease, racism and classism. Rev. Smithurst was in contact with many influential people of the time, including Henry Budd and James Settee, the first Indigenous men to be ordained by the Anglican church in North America; Reverend William Cockran; Reverend Ezekiel Gilbert Gear, chaplain at Fort Snelling in modern-day Minnesota; Reverend William Mason, Rossville Mission Press printer; David Anderson, first bishop of Rupert’s Land; and Duncan Finlayson, governor of Assiniboia.
In the correspondence within this collection, missionaries privately share personal frustrations with their efforts to “civilize” and convert Indigenous peoples, while struggling to survive the landscape and navigate social conflicts.
Acquired with Rev. Smithurst's letters, and included here, are several miscellaneous letters, as well as correspondence for the Reverend C.E. Thomson, who succeeded Rev. Smithurst at the Elora parish, and correspondence for the Reverend Adam Townley, step-father to Rev. Thomson. Correspondents include: John Strachan, first bishop of Toronto; Alexander Neil Bethune, second bishop of Toronto; F.D. Fauquier, first bishop of Algoma; and George Whitaker, first provost of Trinity College in Toronto.
Place: Middleton [Derbyshire, England]
From: Frs Buckley
To: J. Smithurst, Church Missionary Institution, Islington [London]
Delivery: Great Britain mail
Details: 3 pp + integral address face
Notes: Reverend William Buckley is deeply disappointed to hear that John Smithurst had to cancel his planned visit to Middleton. Rev. Buckley goes on to relate news of recent marriages and clergy appointments.
Buckley, WilliamPlace: Hudsons Bay House, London [England]
From: John Smith
To: The Revd John Smithurst, Church Missionary House, Salisbury Square [London, England]
Details: 1pp
Notes: This letter confirms a previous conversation between John Smith of Hudson's Bay House in London and Reverend John Smithurst. Rev. Smithurst is awarded the position of chaplain to the Hudson's Bay Company at Red River in Rupert's Land. He is granted passage from London to Fort Garry [modern-day Winnipeg].
A report of the furs received and sold at York Factory, with quantities for each item.
Place: Upper Fort Garry
From: unknown
To: Rev. J. Smithurst
Details: 2pp with integral address
Notes: Copy of not guilty verdict returned by the Jury on the trial of Henry Beardie for the murder of William Washington Bird. While the jury admits that Beardie did point his bow and arrow at Bird, the fact that Beardie is only 12 years old leads the jury to acquit him of murder. The jury warns parents to abolish archery in the community to prevent future deaths.
Private correspondence from Andrew Linklater at Nelson River to Thomas Spence at York Factory.
Linklater sends his well-wishes and shares details about his circumstances.
Place: Grand Rapids
From: Wm Cockran
To: Rev. J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement
Details: 2pp
Notes: Rev. Cockran sends supplies with "Beary and William Thomas" and he spoke with Ferdinand regarding fat and dried meat for the children. He hopes that Rev. Smithurst is over his cold. Rev. Cockran will not be able to visit him because he has to be at the Middle Church this week.
Cockran, WilliamThirteen (13) envelopes and paper enclosures, & two (2) prayer cards, similar in size to playing cards.
Eleven (11) of the envelopes and paper enclosures are addressed to Reverend John Smithurst at Indian Settlement, Red River. Most are undated.
Of these eleven, one (1) features a black wax seal, a hexagon border surrounding two (2) initials, possibly “K” and “R.”
Two (2) envelopes are embossed, one with an oblong border around the initials “CMS” and the other embossed with “Etches & Wilson, Manufacturers, 32 Hatton Garden, London."
One (1) paper enclosure is sealed with five (5) wax drops in different colours.
Seven (7) have red wax seals:
- Design obscured
- bearded man’s profile in a rounded rectangle,
- tiny rounded border surrounding script “Theo” (?)
- the initials “S” and “C” in a circular border,
- the initials “J” and “H” in gothic script inside a rounded rectangular border,
- an oblong shape filled with a hatched design,
- a large red wax seal with most of the design obscured except for the tiny letters “Pro P Elle” along the border.
Two (2) envelopes are addressed to Reverend Smithurst via Church Mission House, Salisbury Square, Fleet Street, London, England. Bear postal markings for Wirksworth in England for the years 1848 and 1849. Both are sealed with red wax, imprinted with a left-facing lion rampant design.
Two (2) prayer cards. Both are printed. The first one is printed in black and red with a prayer beginning “Create in me a Clean Heart." Text in the border reads, "Teach me thy way o lord and lead me in a plain path.” Handwriting in ink on the blank back reads “Master Henry W. Erwin.” The second one is printed in black with purple and green colour with an image of Eve with the serpent. "The entrance of thy word giveth light. Ps 119.130.” Handwriting in ink on the blank back reads “Henry Walter Erwin.”
Place: Red River Settlement, Hudson Bay, North America
From: Daniel Aillud, St. Mary Gray
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 1pp with integral address
Notes: Daniel Aillud writes about going to Navigation School and preparing for an upcoming voyage.
From the title page: "Doc. No. 43, 26th Congress, 1st Session, House of Representatives. Memorial of Charles Bulfinch, et al., praying that their title to certain lands in the Territory of Oregon may be confirmed. January 13, 1840. Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs." Printed by Blair & Rives.
This document is a request that the United States government recognize the ownership of parcels of northwest pacific land bought by Captain Kendrick in 1791 from island natives during his exploration of modern day Vancouver Island and the Queen Charlotte Islands. Captain Kendrick died in 1794. In 1840, several parties together petitioned Congress to enforce their rights to these lands: Charles Bulfinch, Sampson V. S. Wilder, Samuel B. Barrell, Henry Hatch, William Vernon, Joseph Kendrick, and Alfred Kendrick.
Place: Wapashayaw
From: H. Budd
To: Revd J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement
Details: 3pp and integral address
Notes: Henry Budd writes to Rev. Smithurst with news of his trek to the Saskatchewan River from the Red River Settlement. After 17 days, Budd arrived at an area he calls “Wapaskayaw” and mentions a Mr. Turner who is farming barley and potatoes in the area. Budd has decided the area is favourable and plans to stay and begin building the school and mission.
Budd, HenryPlace: Red River Settlement
From: Joseph Bird
To: the Revende [sic] Mr Wm Cockran, Grand Rapids
Details: 1pp with integral address
Notes: Joseph Bird agrees to lend a boat to Reverend William Cockran, but wants it back in time to travel to York Factory in the fall.
Place: Red River Settlement
From: The Bishop of Montreal
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 3pp
Notes: The letter would have been likely carried to Toronto, Barrie, Penetanguishine and then along Lake Huron's and Superior's coastlines by the Winter Express which included dog team, snow shoe, and then overland to Winnipeg River, Lake Winnipeg, up to Red River to the Indian Settlement.
Bishop of MontrealPlace: Sycamore Cottage [Derbyshire, England]
From: Anne Alsop & Catherine Wasse
To: The Reverend John Smithurst, Church Missionary. To be forwarded and properly directed from Islington
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: 4 pp (partly cross-written) + integral address face
Notes: Composite letter from friends Anne Alsop and her niece Catherine Wasse. Anne Alsop mentions Rev. Smithurst's brother George and family matters. Catherine Wasse writes about her impression of London, the renovations to Dethick Chapel, the success of her brother who is leasing Wakebridge Mine from Mr. Nightingale (the father of Florence Nightingale), Mr. Nightingale's annual visit, and the record-setting winter weather.
Alsop, AnnePlace: Whitby [North Yorkshire, England]
From: Mary Hugill
To: Rev’d John Smithurst
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: 3 pp + integral address face
Notes: Letter from a cousin, with family news (illnesses, etc.). She asks if she can send him a gift of pickles, preserves or cakes, and to do so.
Place: Church Missionary Institution [Islington, London, England]
From: Enoch Reddall
To: The Rev’d 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: 4 pp + separate address cover
Notes: Reddall discusses various missionary works including great success in New Zealand and a new missionary to the Teloogoo people in central India. Clergymen posted to Ceylon, Abyssinia, and Sierra Leone are also mentioned. Reddall notes that this letter is forwarded by Abraham Cowley on his way to Rupert’s Land.
In fact, Abraham Cowley and his wife Arabella crossed the Atlantic Ocean three times in nine months attempting to reach his missionary posting at Lake Manitoba. On 5 January 1841, less than a fortnight after their marriage, the young couple set out for Montreal on their way to the Red River Settlement in Rupert’s Land. This unusual route was taken in the belief that the Cowleys would be able to travel with Bishop George Jehoshaphat Mountain of Montreal who was planning a visitation of Rupert’s Land. The couple arrived in Montreal on 28 February, and Cowley was ordained a Deacon on 7 March. Bishop Mountain’s visit to the northwest was postponed, however, and the Cowleys, seeing no hope of reaching the Red River Settlement from Montreal, returned to England and took ship almost immediately for Hudson’s Bay. They arrived in Red River on 28 September 1841.
This letter was apparently delivered by Cowley to Smithurst upon his arrival in Red River.
Place: Lower Fort Garry
From: [Hudson’s Bay Company]
To: The Rev’d John Smithurst, Indian Settlement
Delivery: Local courier (probably HBC courier)
Details: 2 pp (additional accounting in hand of Smithurst) + integral address face
Notes: Invoice for purchases made at Lower Fort Garry, listing goods such as tea, sugar, soap, buttons, plates, saltpetre, kettles, knives, shot, etc. In red, items are assigned as purchased by Henry Budd, or “C.M.S.” (Church Missionary Society). The second page is an additional accounting of items purchased by Smithurst in September, showing amount paid and amount charged to C.M.S.
Hudson's Bay CompanyPlace: Grand Rapids [Red River Settlement]
From: William Cockran
To: Rev. J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement
Delivery: Carried by courier “James,” possibly on account of Church Missionary Society (?)
Details: 1 pp + integral address face
Notes: Cockran sends Smithurst hatchet bar and rod iron (as supplies for his smithy), and endeavors to get additional iron for him from the Fort (most likely Lower Fort Garry). He also sends barley and wheat.
Cockran, WilliamPlace: York Factory
From: Ina Cowie
To: Revd John Smithurst, Red River
Details: 2pp with integral address
Notes: A letter of effusive thanks for Rev. Smithurst’s kindness in recommending Ina Cowie to the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) for employment. It seems Rev. Smithurst spoke with his friend Captain Herd on Cowie’s behalf. Cowie also mentions that he wishes to write to the Church Missionary Society to let them know of Rev. Smithurst’s thoughtfulness.
Place: [Grand Rapids?]
From: Wm Cockran
To: Rev. J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement
Details: 3pp with integral address
Notes: Reverend William Cockran writes to Rev. Smithurst regarding Rev. Cowley and his wife Mrs. Cowley, who have lodged with Rev. Cockran since they arrived in Rupert’s Land the previous autumn. Rev. Cockran describes the Cowleys as being ungracious guests who do not understand the expense of living in the Red River Settlement. Rev. Cockran also writes that he has severed ties to the Hudson’s Bay Company and the Church Missionary Society but will continue as if he will “continue here for life.” He finishes the letter by discussing the flour he is sending to Henry Budd at the Cumberland House Mission. He mentions that James Sandison and Henry Bird are assisting him.
Cockran, WilliamPlace: Revier du Pas
From: Hy Budd
To: The Revd John Smithurst, Red River
Details: 3pp and integral address
Notes: Henry Budd writes to Rev. Smithurst with news. Mr. H. McKenzie arrived by boat and let Budd know that Rev. Smithurst arrived back in Red River safely, as well as bringing goods sent by Rev. Smithurst, including books, cloth, and tea. Budd discusses leather clothes for the Native children. Budd also mentions that he is "at a loss what to do with these children when they turn ill, having nothing of any kind to give them, but Salts." His brother-in-law, who was originally from Norway House, recently died after injuring himself with an axe and being unable to reach help.
Budd, HenryPlace: Grand Rapids [Red River Settlement]
From: William Cockran
To: Rev. J. Smithurst [Indian Settlement]
Delivery: Carried by courier
Details: 2pp + integral address face
Notes: Rev. Cockran writes to Rev. Smithurst to let him know that Rev. Abraham Cowley will be visiting him to discuss the details of opening a mission at Manitoba [Lake]. Rev. Cockran is anxious to establish a mission there, and mentions that Mr. Roberts is content to stay in Red River as a catechist.
Cockran, WilliamPlace: Sycamore Cottage [Derbyshire, England]
From: A. Alsop
To: The Rev'd John Smithurst, Church Missy House, Salisbury Square, Fleet Street, London [England]
Details: 4pp with integral address
Notes: Anne Alsop sends much news from England, with unrest over the corn laws having led to a crowd in Derby burning an effigy of Sir Robert Peel. Since the last letter, Catherine Wasse was pregnant but lost the baby boy. Anne Alsop has not seen Rev. Smithurst's brother George for some time, but she believes one of his daughters got married. Mr. Nightingale (the father of Florence Nightingale, the famous nurse) is in the area collecting rents. The economy is doing quite poorly, and the Tories want to change the poor laws. Alsop herself is a Wigg, but her nephews are Tories. While in London, she saw great crowds gather during the election. She also attended twice daily sermons to hear Dr. Crow at St. Stevens Walbrook, by whom she is greatly impressed. (It is possible she is referring to Dr. Croly who was a rector at St. Stephens Walbrook in London during this period. He was a famous orator and novelist.)
Alsop, AnnePlace: York Factory
From: "C.C." [Hudson's Bay Company agent]
To: Rev. James Evans
Details: 1pp
Notes: Postage charged to Wesleyan Missionaries including Rev. James Evans, Rob Rundle, Peter Jacobs, William Mason, Mr. Steinhauer, Thomas Hassal, and Josiah LHyrondelle.
Evans, JamesA Hudson's Bay Company Bill of Exchange from the Red River Settlement, paid to the order of Douglas Chambers in the amount of £10 sterling.
Place: London [England]
From: [Lord] Chichester
To: The Rev’d J. Smithurst
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: Lord Chichester writes a few hurried lines and mentions his preparation of a gift parcel that includes a few books, an educational book, and knives for Smithurst’s use in his missionary work. Lord Chichester further apologizes for the hurried packages and comments on the many things he would have liked to have included, had he the time.
Place: London [England]
From: Bot. of T&C Lockhart
To: Revd J. Smithurst
Details: 1pp
Notes: An invoice for numerous plants and seeds ordered by Rev. Smithurst including Early York cabbage, Tripoli onion, Long white radish, Yellow Dutch turnip, James keeping onion, Brown Dutch lettuce, other varieties.
Place: Red River Settlement
From: Mary Hodgson
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 1pp
Notes: Mary Hodgson writes from Whitby to tell him of her recent marriage. The embossed letterhead was likely a wedding present.
The small-sized letter with a lack of seal indicates it was enclosed within a larger letter forwarded to the Church Missionary Society in London. The mail was carried by Hudson Bay Company's spring supply ship to York factory and from there the letter would travel by boat up the Nelson River, across Lake Winnipeg and then up the Red River to the Indian Settlement.
Hodgson, MaryPlace: Sycamore Cottage [Derbyshire, England]
From: Anne Alsop and Catherine Wasse
To: The Rev’ J. Smithurst / Church Missionary House, Fleet Street, 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: 4pp (partly cross-written) + integral address face
Notes: Composite letter from friend and her aunt on family matters. Mentions annual visit of Mr. Nightingale (father of Florence Nightingale – John Smithurst’s first cousin) with details on their losses owing to a bank failure.
Alsop, AnneAn Anglican minister and missionary in Canada, Rev. Adam Townley was also co-editor of the "Churchman's Friend," a 16-page monthly publication that sought to promote and defend high church theology. With his colleague and co-editor Reverend Edward H. Dewar, Rev. Townley released the first issue in October 1855 from Paris, Canada West. Production soon moved to Windsor, Canada West. Publication ceased in 1857, after a short and controversial run. Rev. Townley was also step-father to Rev. C.E. Thomson, himself the successor to Rev. John Smithurst at St. John the Evangelist church in Elora. It is presumably this relationship that led to his correspondence being included in the Rev. Smithurst collection acquired by Bruce Peel Special Collections at the University of Alberta.
Place: Priory Place, New Ross [Ireland]
From: John and Annie Corbett
To: Adam Townley
Details: 8 pp.
Notes: The first sheet of paper is a letter to Adam Townley from his brother-in-law, John Corbett. His letter continues onto the second sheet of paper, on the third and fourth pages. John is the husband of Townley's sister Annie, whose letter makes up the first and second pages on the second sheet of paper.
John Corbett relates how Annie is in fact just recovering from a five-week-long illness after a carriage accident. He comments on the rivalry between the Church Missionary Society and the newer Society for the Propagation of the Gospel. John is very concerned at the unrest in Ireland and within the Anglican church. He also mentions the alarming rise of "the principles called 'Puseyism'."
Annie addresses her brother as "Dearest Addie." She gives news about family members and many acquaintances.
Place: Lachine near Montreal
From: James Keith
To: Reverend Smithurst, Red River Settlement
Details: 1pp and integral address
Notes: Discusses Rev. Smithurst's subscription to Church Weekly Paper, and his cancelled subscription to the Montreal Herald.
Keith, JamesPlace: St. Paul's Cray Kent
From: Daniel Aillud
To: The Revd John Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River, Hudsons Bay, Nth America
Details: 2pp
Notes: Daniel Aillud writes to Rev. Smithurst requesting a character reference so that he can leave his work as a sailor on the “Prince Rupert” for the Hudson’s Bay Company. He also discusses the death of his father, who died while he was at sea.
Place: Red River Settlement
From: John Hargrave (Hudson's Bay Company clerk factor)
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 2pp
Notes: Hargrave, writing from York Factory, writes to Rev. Smithurst to let him that the articles Smithurst requested were delivered to the depot by Mr. Mowat. Hargrave also mentions that he would happily comply with Smithurst's request to supply all of the Church Missionary Society with whatever "gentleman and Mrs. Hunter" may need to be comfortable in the autumn months.
Hargrave, JohnPlace: Red River Settlement
From: Mary Hodgson, Sycamore Cottage in Lea
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 3pp
Notes: The writer Anne Alsop discusses family matters in great length and asks Smithurst to take an "Indian bride". Smithurst was a roommate to be involved with his cousin Florence Nightingale but the relationship was stopped by family members.
The letter would have been forwarded to the Church Missionary Society in London. The mail was carried up by Hudson's Bay Company Spring Supply Ship to York Factory and from there the letter would travel by boat up the Nelson River, through Lake Winnipeg and. up the Red River to Indian Settlement.
Alsop, AnnePlace: York Factory
From: James Hargrave
To: Revd John Smithurst, &c. &c. &c., Red River Settlement
Details: 1pp and integral address face
Notes: James Hargrave, an HBC employee, responds to a letter from Rev. Smithurst delivered by Mr. Morvat. The letter dealt with receiving and sending articles by the ship “Prince Rupert.” Hargrave goes on to say that Rev. Hunter and his wife arrived from London, and have continued on to the Saskatchewan District [Cumberland - Devon mission] in a boat along with part of their baggage. The rest of their baggage will be sent to them in the Spring.
Place: Cumberland Station, River du Pas (sic)
From: Henry Budd
To: The Rev’d J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement
Delivery: Carried by courier
Details: 3.5pp + integral address face
Notes: A letter briefly outlining six enclosures originally included with the letter (but now lost), with instructions on processing certain accounts. Other issues include Charles Cook resigning, and John Turnor Junior taking his place (at a wage of ten (10) skins a month) to fish, cut, and haul firewood, square timber, and do other labour. Mr. Budd and his family are happy to hear that a minister has been assigned to their outpost, and while they anticipate meeting Reverend James Hunter, they are distressed that Smithurst himself cannot come to the settlement to baptize the Natives. The chief had also hoped to see Smithurst, and has now gone to Norway House in the [Hudson’s Bay] Company boats, probably to York Factory.
Budd, HenryPlace: Cumberland Station, Rivière du Pas
From: James Hunter
To: The Revd J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement, Red River
Details: 3pp with integral address face
Notes: Reverend James Hunter writes to Rev. Smithurst. James Settee recently arrived at Cumberland Station [The Pas, MB] with his wife, family, and coincidentally with the carpenter hired by Rev. Hunter. He mentions Mr. Ross at Norway House. Rev. Hunter decided to keep the mission in its current location rather than move it to Cumberland Lake. He feels threatened by a Catholic missionary's activity in the area, referring to the man as "the Priest." This priest persuaded Wetus to convert to Roman Catholicism, but Rev. Hunter dismisses Wetus as “simply a Medicine man of which there are several here all equally as much claim to be considered Chiefs.” It is too late in the season for Settee to continue on to Rapid River [Lac la Ronge mission], so he will stay until the spring and assist Henry Budd and the carpenter in building Rev. Hunter a house. Rev. Hunter says he will “endeavour to manage Mrs. Settee as well as possible.”
Hunter, JamesPlace: Grand Rapids [Red River Settlement]
From: Wm Cockran
To: Rev. J. Smithurst, I[ndian] Settlement
Delivery: Carried by courier, possibly on account of Church Missionary Society
Details: 3.5pp + integral address face
Notes: Reverend William Cockran writes that the thaw has made the Red River very dangerous, interrupting travel. Cockran contacted Mr. McAllum [Reverend John Macallum, headmaster of the Red River Academy] and informed him that Smithurst was unlikely to make the trip to Grand Rapids as scheduled. He also relates that importers from the United States are refusing to pay an import fee. Cockran recounts how Mr. McAllum confronted one importer, Henry Cook, whom Smithurst has also had business with, and insisted on paying the import on a purchase of bonnets or Mr. Cook could take his contraband elsewhere.
Cockran, WilliamPlace: Fort Frances
From: Nicol Finlayson
To: Revd Mr John Smithurst, Missy Ch. M. Society, Red River Settlement
Details: 1pp with integral address face
Notes: Nicol Finlayson writes to Rev. Smithurst that he sent along the requested maps, and he sends his best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Cockran.
Finlayson, NicolPlace: Middleton [Derbyshire, England]
From: William Buckley
To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, Church Mission House / Salisbury Square, Fleet Street, London
Delivery: Forwarded by the Church Missionary Society (CMS) 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 + integral address face with postal marks
Notes: Letter from a friend with news from home.
Buckley, WilliamPlace: Church Mission House [London, England]
From: Church Missionary Society
To: Rev. J. Smithurst
Delivery: Forwarded by the Church Missionary Society (CMS) 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 + integral address face
Notes: An accounting of expenses and wages for 1844 and 1845.
Church Missionary SocietyPlace: Cumberland Station
From: Hy Budd
To: Revd J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement
Details: 3pp and integral address face
Notes: In his letter, Henry Budd apologizes profusely for his sins, while never quite explaining what sins he has committed. He refers to being the victim of baseless allegations from several girls who have been paid to accuse him. Budd tells Rev. Smithurst that he plans to leave the mission at Cumberland Station at the end of the year.
Budd, HenryPlace: Beaver Creek
From: James Settee
To: The Reverend Mr. J. Smithurst
Details: 1pp
Notes: A short document asking Rev. Smithurst to pay Edward Mackey 5 pounds Sterling out of James Settee's account.
Settee, JamesPlace: Red River Settlement
From: Henry Budd (Hudson's Bay Clerk and Missionary), Cedar Lake (on route to Grand Rapids)
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 3pp
Notes: The letter from Henry Budd discusses the return of empty kegs for butter and lie soup, garden vegetables being grown thereby requesting vegetable seeds. Mrs. Budd's gift of gloves to be sent via Les Perance and Mr. Budd's watch is enclosed for repair.
Cedar Lake is located Northwest of Lake Winnipeg and the letter was carried down to Grand Rapids down Lake Winnipeg and then to Red River Indian Settlement. The Letter was most likely carried by Mission Boat that carried supplies as well as mail to Grand Rapids.
Budd, HenryPlace: Lachine
From: Dun: Finlayson
To: Revd John Smithurst, Red River Settlement
Details: 3pp with integral address face
Notes: Duncan Finlayson writes to Rev. Smithurst with various news. Finlayson relates details of a recent trip, expresses concern that war with the United States is looming, reports that illness has forced Lord Metcalfe to return to England, and informs Rev. Smithurst that money has been set aside to provide a Bishop for Rupert's Land.
Finlayson, DuncanA hand-written letter written by James Douglas to James M. Yale, Hudson’s Bay Company Chief Trader at Fort Langley, British Columbia. This letter was sent from Fort Victoria. Douglas writes about recent events and expresses some opinions about many of the issues facing the Pacific Northwest operations of the HBC.
From notes provided by the donor: “Douglas sheds light on the following issues of the time:
a) H.B.C. servants and their suitability for advancement
b) Furs and fur returns
c) Agricultural crops and the weather affecting yield in the region
d) The visit by Chief Factor Peter Skene Ogden, having travelled overland from Red River and into the Columbia River through the Coutonais (Kootenay) Portage, in the company of British Officers Henry J. Warre and Mervin Vavasour (on their ‘secret’ military reconnaissance of the Oregon Territory)
e) The arrival and operations of H.M.S. America, under the charge of Captain John Gordon (the brother of Lord Aberdeen, Foreign Secretary at the time, and later Prime Minister)
f) Activity of H.B.C. traders: Chief Factor Lewis (sic), Chief Trader John Work, and Donald Mason
g) Returns of the most recent Outfit (the yearly trade cycle of the fur trade)
h) The wretched state of John Clarke (a long-time H.B.C. employee, who has fallen on hard times)
i) The potential for salt to be gathered from salt marshes on Cowegen (Cowichan) lands, without attracting the attention of the Americans, who would undoubtedly try to capitalize on the resource
j) A visit from American whaling ship captains, whose ships are lying at anchor in Neah Bay.”
Reverend C.E. Thomson replaced Reverend John Smithurst at St. John’s Church in Elora, Canada West [later Ontario] after Smithurst’s dismissal by John Strachan, Bishop of Toronto. Thomson ministered in Elora from 1857-1877.
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.
Correspondence from James Harrold at Fishing Lakes [near Fort Qu'Appelle?] to William McTavish [sic] at York Factory.
The letter describes a trip planned to York Factory, ice fishing, weather, and a message from "Mr. Hargrave" about fishing, which may refer to James Hargrave. The letter also includes a brief inventory of fish caught on open water.
This series contains all items in the collection created between 1840 and 1849.
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)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, HenryPlace: Toronto
From: John Toronto
To: Rev Adam Townley
Details: 2pp
Notes: A letter marked private, written by John Strachan, Bishop of Toronto. It is addressed to Reverend Adam Townley who was rector in Dunnville at the time, serving the parishes of Dunnville, Port Maitland, and South Cayuga in the Niagara District. Strachan discusses land titles in relation to a new church, and asks several questions to arrange travel. St. John the Evangelist church was built in South Cayuga and consecrated by Strachan in June 1846.
Strachan, JohnCompilation of clippings from the Edmonton Journal comprising a serialized publication of Charles Dickens’ “The Life of Our Lord,” together with background materials, including a facsimile of a letter from Dickens to his children, dedicating and introducing the work to them. Published during Easter 1934.
Dickens, CharlesTitled: "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 KennedyPlace: 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, AnnePlace: 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.
Correspondence from James Hargrave at Norway House to William Mactavish at York Factory.
The letter addresses the harvesting of timber and the fishery at York Factory, goods scarcities, and a note from C. F. [Chief Factor] [Alexander] Christie requesting gunpowder to be sent to Red River.
Correspondence from A. Barclay [secretary] at Hudson's Bay House, London, [England] to William Mactavish, who was likely at York Factory.
The letter informs Mactavish that he has been promoted to the rank of Chief Trader. Mactavish is also informed that he can expect his commission will be sent once the "Deed of Covenant" is signed.
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 JrPlace: 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 GregoryPlace: 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.”
Place: [Lower Fort Garry]
From: Alex[ander] Christie Jr.
To: Rev’d J. Smithurst, Indian Settlement
Delivery: Carried by courier
Details: 1 pp + integral address face
Notes: Christie thanks Smithurst for the gift of pigeons, and sends 495 lbs. of beef, crediting Smithurst’s account. While the note is undated, Christie was posted to Red River in 1847 and was transferred to Edmonton some time in 1848.
Christie, Alexander JrPlace: 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, JamesPlace: Red River Settlement
From: [?] Parnell
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 1pp
Notes: The letter acknowledged receipt of money on several occasions and stated that the rate of interest of the money deposit is £2 percent per annum.
ParnellPlace: 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 GregoryPlace: 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, DuncanPlace: Red River Settlement
From: Anne Alsop, London
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 4pp
Delivery: Sent to Missionary House, 14 Salisbury Sq., Fleet Street, London
Notes: The letter talks about the events, situations, and friends they know in England.
Alsop, AnnePlace: 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)Place: Red River Settlement
From: James Hunter
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 1pp
Notes: The letter includes a list of food items for Smithurst to provide, requested by Hunter for the next year.
Hunter, JamesPersonal correspondence from John Mactavish in Tobago to his brother William Mactavish at York Factory. The letter is addressed to arrive at York Factory care of The Hudson's Bay [Co's] House in London.
The letter notes the recovery of "Mr. Hargrave," which may be reference to James Hargrave, and it describes in great detail the well-being of Alick, which may be Alex [Mactavish], including a note that John and William's father will be sending Alick to Australia. The letter also describes the destruction of property and injuries suffered as a result of a hurricane in Tobago. John contemplates going to Puerto Rico, but instead decides to go to the Sandwich Islands. The letter concludes with a request to William to have Dugald [Mactavish] write and provide an account of the Sandwich Islands. Mention is also made of George Simpson, Lockhart [Mactavish], and John McTaggart.
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 GilbertPlace: 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, DuncanPlace: 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, WilliamA handwritten report detailing Indigenous families associated with Oxford House.
The report includes the names of male hunters along with their relationship to other hunters and a numerical account of their wives, sons, daughters, and "followers & strangers."
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 GregoryPlace: 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, JohnPlace: 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 GilbertA handwritten report detailing Indigenous families associated with Oxford House and Indigenous people associated with Oxford House who have died or moved.
The report names Indigenous hunters who have died or moved away from Oxford House. It also includes the names of male hunters along with their relationship to other hunters and a numerical account of their wives, sons, daughters, and "[separate] followers." The report is signed by L. [a] Robertson of Oxford House.
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 GregoryCorrespondence from Hector McKenzie at Hudson's Bay House, Lachine to William Mactavish at Saint Mary's, which is likely an anglicized version of Sault Ste. Marie.
The sender states that he has returned from a trip to Fort William and asks what Mactavish would like done with found possessions belonging to his deceased brother. Mackenzie also asks Mactavish how he likes his new placement and notes that he is sure to be popular with the ladies there.
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 GilbertPlace: 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, JohnAn account summary for Rev. Smithurst with the Church Missionary Society for dates in 1848 and 1849, with April 4, 1849 as the latest date.
Church Missionary SocietyA handwritten report of the furs produced at Norway House, Berens River, and Nelson River.
The report includes a breakdown for each region, including fur type, quantity, and price.
Five miscellaneous letters and two printed prayer cards acquired with the Rev. John Smithurst Correspondence collection. Thirteen envelopes and enclosures addressed to Rev. Smithurst for which no matching letters are found in this collection.
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, HenryPlace: Red River Settlement
From: Robert James, Grand Rapids
To: Reverend John Smithurst
Details: 2pp
Notes: A brief letter from James before the arrival of the Bishop (aka his Lordship).
James, RobertPersonal correspondence from Dugald Mactavish at Kilchrist, [Scotland] to his son William Mactavish at Sault Ste. Marie.
In the letter, Dugald describes cholera in Kilchrist, his health and the health of William's mother, and his financial situation. Mention is made of other people who are likely family members, including Dugald [Jr. Mactavish], Alex [Mactavish], John [Mactavish], and Lockhart [Mactavish], and a man named Hargrave, who is possibly James Hargrave.
From the docket: "Administration of Justice (Vancouver’s Island). An Act To provide for the Administration of Justice in Vancouver’s Island. (Brought from the Lords 5 July 1849) Ordered, by the House of Commons, to be Printed, 5 July 1849."
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)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 SocietyPlace: [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, PeterPlace: 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 SocietyPlace: 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