Penetanguishene Bay Purchase facts for kids

The Penetanguishene Bay Purchase, also known as Crown Treaty Number Five, was an agreement signed on May 22, 1798. This important treaty was made between the Ojibwe people (also called Chippeway) and the government of Upper Canada. Through this agreement, the government bought land around Matchedash Bay on Lake Huron. The price paid for this land was one hundred and one pounds in Quebec currency.

What Was the Penetanguishene Bay Purchase?

The Penetanguishene Bay Purchase was a formal agreement. It allowed the government of Upper Canada to buy a specific area of land. This land was located near Matchedash Bay, which is part of Lake Huron. The Ojibwe people, who had lived on these lands for a very long time, agreed to this sale.

The payment for this large area of land was 101 pounds. This money was in a type of currency used in Quebec at the time. Treaties like this one were common during this period as European settlers expanded their territories.

Why Was This Land Important?

This land purchase was very important for the government of Upper Canada. They wanted to build a special place called a naval depot at Penetanguishene. A naval depot is like a home base for navy ships. It's where ships can be repaired, supplied, and kept ready.

This location on Lake Huron was chosen because it was a good spot for a military base. The government was worried about a possible attack from the United States. They believed a strong base at Penetanguishene could help protect their territory from any invasion coming across the lake.

Who Signed the Treaty?

Many people were involved in signing the Penetanguishene Bay Purchase. They represented both the government of Upper Canada and the Ojibwe nation.

Representatives from Upper Canada

The people who signed on behalf of the British government of Upper Canada included:

• William Willcocks and Alexander Burns, who were Provincial Commissioners.
• Major Samuel Smith and Lieutenant Arthur Holden-Brooking from the military.
• Adjutant John McGill, also from the military.
• J. Givins, an Indian Agent.
• W. Johnson Chew and George Cown from the Indian Department.
• W. Claus, who was the Superintendent of Indian Affairs.

Ojibwe Leaders

The respected leaders who signed the treaty on behalf of the Ojibwe people were:

• Chabondashea
• Aasance
• Wabenenguan
• Ningawson
• Omassanahsqutawah