Today in History – 17 October 1815

Late last night Mr. St. Germain arrived from Jack River, brought me a letter from Mr. Bird mentioning the arrival of Eighty Colonists and Robert Semple Esq’re. Governor in Cheif of the Hudson’s Bay Companys territories with a controuling power over the Colony– It is astonishing that no instructions have been sent me by this Gentleman from the Governor,- do they mean to take us by surprise, with such a number of families?- Gov’r. Semple ought to have sent a light boat ahead with the single men only, to aid in preparing for the others who I am informed are aged people.- this is really sad blundering- but perhaps they intend to bring a sufficient quantity of provisions to pass the winter.- Mons’r St. Germain informed me that my letters would not reach York in time for the ships- as Mr. Thomas had left no one at Jack River to take them to the Factory- altho’ he promised to have two men there for that purpose.- This consideration induced me to send off Jean Baptiste Logmonier and one of the Company’s Canadian servants with the Montreal Packet, – they left this place about 4 oclock P.M. for Fort Dair- they have an Indian Guide. – Mr. Bird informs me that on examining the Packet from England there were no letters addressed to me. I presume that Gov’r. Semple has them.- Engaged two Hunters and sent them off for Fort Dair to prepare provisioins for the Emigrants- sent orders to Mr. Pritchard to have the houses put into repair.-

-  Colin Robertson’s Journal

Here we see the very beginning of the rocky relationship between Colin Robertson and Governor Semple. Robertson was constantly frustrated in his efforts to help the Governor understand the politics of the region and the importance of developing certain strategies accordingly. He was largely ignored and his own responsibilities diminished until he eventually resigned and left in frustration.

Also of interest is that the beginning of Lagamodière’s legendary journey to Canada and back is mentioned here. On his return journey, his indiscretion led to his arrest and imprisonment by NWCo. officials.

(reference: pages 1425-6 of the Selkirk Papers, M186, Manitoba Archives)

Tags: 1815 Group, communications, food supply, Fort Daer, Jack River, James Bird, Jean-Baptiste Lagimodière, John Pritchard, Mr. St. Germain, Robert Semple, Thomas Thomas

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