Ross Cox facts for kids

Ross Cox (1793–1853) was an Irish explorer and writer. He worked as a clerk for two important fur trading companies in North America: the Pacific Fur Company and the North West Company. Later, he wrote a famous book about his exciting adventures.

Early Life and Adventures

Ross Cox was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1793. His parents were Samuel Cox and Margaret Thorpe. When he was 18 years old, in 1811, he moved to America.

Joining the Fur Trade

In America, Ross Cox started working as a clerk for the Pacific Fur Company (PFC). This company was involved in trading animal furs. In 1812, he arrived at Fort Astoria, which was the main trading post for the PFC.

Changing Companies

A big event called the War of 1812 happened. Because of this war, the Pacific Fur Company had to close down. Its business was sold to another large fur trading company, the North West Company, in 1813. Ross Cox then became a clerk for this new company. He worked with them until 1817.

Returning Home

After his adventures in North America, Ross Cox decided to return to Ireland in 1817. He started a new career there. He became a writer, working as the Irish correspondent for a newspaper called the London Morning Herald. He also worked as a clerk in the police office in Dublin. In 1819, he married Hannah Cumming, and they had several children. Ross Cox passed away in Dublin in 1853.

His Lasting Legacy

Ross Cox is remembered for his important book, Adventures on the Columbia River. This book was published in London in 1831. It tells many stories about his time with the North West Company and is a valuable record of that period.

Places Named After Him

Because of his explorations and writings, several places in Canada are named after Ross Cox. These include Ross Cox Creek and Mount Ross Cox. These names help keep his memory alive in the places he explored.