William Bleasdell Cameron facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Bleasdell Cameron
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| Born | July 26, 1862 Trenton, Canada West
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| Died | March 4, 1951 (aged 88) Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan
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| Nationality | Canadian |
| Other names | Willie |
| Known for | Survivor of the Frog Lake Massacre, writer, journalist |
| Children | Jean Baptiste (JB) Cameron |
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William Bleasdell Cameron was born on July 26, 1862, in Trenton, Canada West. He is best known for surviving a terrible event called the Frog Lake Massacre. He also wrote a famous book about his experiences. This book, The War Trail of Big Bear, tells the story of the massacre and his time as a captive.
Contents
Life as a Young Man
In 1885, William Cameron worked as a clerk. He was at a Hudson's Bay Company store in Frog Lake. This area was part of the North-West Territories at the time.
Surviving the Frog Lake Massacre
On April 2, 1885, a major event happened. It was called the Frog Lake Massacre, part of the North-West Rebellion. William Cameron survived this attack. After the massacre, he was held captive for two months. He was held by a group of Cree people led by a chief named Big Bear.
After His Release
After being set free, William Cameron joined a military group. This group was led by Major General Thomas Bland Strange. William worked as a scout and guide for them. For his help, he received the North West Canada Medal. This medal was given to people who served during the North-West Rebellion.
Helping Big Bear
Later in 1885, William Cameron was in Regina. This was during the trial of Chief Big Bear. William spoke in Big Bear's defense. He told the court that he heard Big Bear try to stop the massacre at Frog Lake.
Later Career
William Cameron had a career in writing and editing. He started a newspaper called Vermilion Signal. He was also on the town council in Vermilion, Alberta. For a short time, he was an editor for a magazine. This magazine was called Field and Stream and was published in New York.
His Final Years
William Bleasdell Cameron passed away on March 4, 1951. He was 88 years old. He died in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, from a lung infection. His headstone has a special message. It reads: "G. Scout, William B. Cameron, Northwest Field Force, 4th March, 1951—Rest In Peace."
Books He Wrote
- Blood Red the Sun
- The War Trail of Big Bear
