Andrew Todd (fur trader) facts for kids

Andrew Todd (born around 1754, died 1796) was an important merchant and fur trader. He came from a rich family in Ireland and moved to North America. He became a key player in the fur trade, especially in the areas around the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers.

Andrew Todd: A Young Trader's Journey

Andrew Todd was born in Ireland around 1754 into a wealthy family. His father was Daniel Todd and his mother was Letitia Thornton. When he was older, Andrew decided to move to North America. He joined his uncle, Isaac Todd, who had a successful trading business in Montreal. His uncle's business partner was a well-known merchant named James McGill.

Becoming a Partner

Andrew quickly learned the ropes of the trading business. He became a junior partner in his uncle's company, Todd, McGill & Co. In 1791, he was invited to join the Beaver Club. This was a special club for important fur traders in Montreal. It showed that he was becoming a respected figure in the trading world.

The Louisiana Trade Monopoly

In 1794, Andrew Todd got a huge opportunity. The Spanish Governor, Francisco Luis Héctor de Carondelet, gave him a special deal. Andrew received an exclusive monopoly over all trade in Louisiana. This meant he was the only person allowed to trade in that vast area. At the time, Louisiana was not part of the United States, which made this deal even more valuable for traders from Canada.

Controlling the Rivers

This monopoly gave Andrew control over the valuable trade routes on the Upper Mississippi River, the Missouri River, and the area north of the Ohio River. He worked hard to protect his special trading rights. People in the region soon knew him as "Don Andreas" because of his power. He successfully sent many goods up from New Orleans and brought back valuable furs.

Challenges and the End of a Dream

Andrew's uncle's company in Montreal, Todd, McGill & Co., hoped to control the entire trade of the Mississippi Valley. However, their plans faced big problems. In October 1796, Spain and Britain declared war on each other. This made trade much harder. Later that same year, Andrew Todd passed away in New Orleans. His death, combined with the war, ended the company's big plans for the Mississippi Valley trade.

Andrew Todd's Legacy

Andrew Todd was not married and had no children when he died. In his will, he made sure to free Jack, a person who worked for him. He left almost everything he owned to his uncle, Isaac Todd. He also left $500 to James McGill, who was helping to manage his will.

See Also

• Isaac Todd
• James McGill
• Fur trade