Peter Fidler (1789 - 1822) is one of those historical figures that should be more famous. He was one of Canada's greatest surveyors and explorers. He was born in England and In 1788 he signed on as a labourer with the Hudson's Bay Company. Canada was largely explored by company men who worked for either the Hudson's Bay Company or the North West Company. He trained as a surveyor, beginning his career at York Factory on Hudson Bay, and surveyed the Canadian west with his data helping to create maps. Around 1795 Peter married a Cree woman named Mary and they had fourteen children. Peter died in 1822 at Dauphin House, and Mary died in 1826 in the Red River settlement.
His will stated that anything remaining from his other bequests be placed in a fund and the interest be allowed to accumulate until August 16, 1969, at which time the whole would be paid to the next male heir in descent from his son Peter. As of 1946 this fund could not be located. Information from various internet sources.
I must admit I have never heard of him, but if that fund exists it would be a fun mystery to solve.
ReplyDeleteThe USA Congress got a hold of it and spent it on 'fact finding' missions (lots [of whisky] and [whore]houses). But they did write an IOU! Good luck getting them to pay it.
ReplyDeleteIt's all so clear to me now.
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