Duncan Cameron (fur trader) facts for kids

Duncan Cameron was an important Canadian fur trader and a political leader in a part of Canada once called Upper Canada. He was born in Glenmoriston, Scotland around 1764 and passed away on May 15, 1848.

Who Was Duncan Cameron?

Duncan Cameron was a key figure in early Canadian history. He spent many years working in the fur trade, which was a very important business at the time. Later in his life, he also became involved in politics in Upper Canada.

Early Life and Moving to Canada

Duncan Cameron was born in Scotland around the year 1764. When he was about nine years old, in 1773, he moved with his family to Tryon County, New York. His father supported the British during the American Revolution. After the war, his family moved to Upper Canada, which is now part of Ontario.

A Life in the Fur Trade

In 1785, Duncan Cameron started working as a clerk for a fur trading company. He worked in the area around Lake Nipigon. This was a time when fur trading was a huge industry in Canada.

By 1795, he joined a very big company called the North West Company. He quickly became a partner and was put in charge of the Nipigon area. Later, in 1807, he moved to lead the Lake Winnipeg department. He worked alongside another fur trader named Alexander MacKay. In 1811, he took charge of the Lac La Pluie department. During all these years, his company was in strong competition with another large company, the Hudson's Bay Company. They were both trying to get the most furs.

Challenges and New Adventures

In 1814, Duncan Cameron was put in charge of the Red River area with Alexander Macdonell of Greenfield. This was a time of tension between the fur trading companies. He was involved in some conflicts with the Hudson's Bay Company and the Métis people who lived there.

He was later taken into custody by Colin Robertson and sent to England. There, he faced a trial. However, he was found innocent and received money because he had been wrongly held.

Becoming a Politician

After these events, Duncan Cameron returned to Upper Canada in 1820. He settled in Glengarry County. He then decided to get involved in politics. He was chosen to represent Glengarry County in the 9th Parliament. This meant he helped make important decisions for the region.

Duncan Cameron passed away in Williamstown in 1848.