Realized $14,5000 in our 1,400th Milestone auction 11th march 2023
Letter book written by William Mactavish of the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1848/49.
There are 49 pages recording letters at the HBC trading post between 7 October 1848 and 25 May 1849.
See Brian’s short explanatory video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_z1IcD038c&t=17s
The letter book frequently mentions George Simpson (Governor of the HBC) and mentions a new President of the USA. It’s an incredible historical artifact – from the Gerald Wellburn collection.
William Mactavish (29 March 1815 – 23 July 1870) was a Scottish Hudson’s Bay Company clerk, accountant, and chief trader. Mainly known for his dual-position as Governor of Assiniboia, and Governor of Rupert’s Land, he played a major role in the development of Western Canada. Mactavish is frequently criticized for his lack of action in the Red River Rebellion in which he ended up being held prisoner by Louise Riel.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Mactavish
H.B.C. The Soo 17 Oct 1848/25 May 1849 49pg letter book, ex Wellburn
Lot 8 in our auction Saturday 11th March 2023
