" A Journal of transactions at York Factory
Commencing the 7th Sept. 1805 and Ending the
[blank] 1806 by Mr John McNab"


Sept. 7 1805
" Saturday The Capt. went on board yesterday soon after closing the packet which he took with him - all hands loading the Brig with Cargo for Severn - At 7 AM Mefs Sinclair and Tate with 17 men in 5 Canoes set out for their Winters Stations - at 8 the Ship got under way and soon got to Sea - afew fish from the Nets."

Sept. 8
" Sunday At 8 am the Severn Brig Sailed with afine breeze and soon disappeared in the Offing - Mr Cook and men preparing for their wintering grounds."

Sept. 9
" Monday Four men taking up the Buoys the others Stowing by Cargo taking boats up the bank &c. Mr Cook and men in tuo large and one Small Canoe went away."

Sept. 10
" Tuesday blows a gale Nly - detains Mr Cook at Point of Marsh."

Sept. 11
" Wednesday Gale continues - Mr Cook got round the Marsh - his men in large Canoes still wind bound - got all the Buoys home - Unrigg'd the Long boat - Ind. from N and E brought 300 Geese - tuo Ind. came in a Canoe with tuo deer."

Sept. 12
" Thursday Mr Cooks men tried in vain to get round the Marsh - Ja. Ballenden one of them came to the factory lame - J. Stickler went in his stead - Ind. of yesterday took debt and went away - got the launch up and Boats Snug for winter."

Sept. 13
" Friday This morng Mr Cooks men Rounded the Point of marsh - fine weather."

Sept. 14
" Saturday Five Ind. in tuo Canoes brought dried Moose Meat. Stowed by the Europ'n Cargo - pumped the Cellars and cleared the drains."

Sept. 15
" Sunday Ind. of yesterday preparing for their Return."

Sept. 16
" Monday Ind. went away - People Roofing the new Boat house, Repairing the deer hedges, Mens Oven and other duties - 100 Geese from the E."

Sept. 17
" Tuesday The Goose hunters took debt and went away."

Sept. 18
" Wednesday Five men went with necefsaries and tenting to erect the wooders tent - the last of the Indians went away for the winter - afew old women Remain for Winters Subsistence."

Sept. 19
" Thursday The men of yesterday came home tuo Canoes of Ind. from the N brought Venison."

Sept. 20
" Friday Five men bring'g Grafs for the Cattle."

Sept. 21
" Saturday Tuo Indians came for Necefsaries."

Sept. 22
" Sunday Four Indians in 2 Canoes came with Venison from the Nward."

Sept. 23
" Monday Wm Manson and 8 men went to the Woods to collect the Wood there."

Sept. 24
" Tuesday The boat builders went to collect Crooks for boat building."

Sept. 25
" Wednesday Four Ind. brought tuo Canoe loads of Venison from the Nward."

Sept. 26
" Thursday All the Ind. went away."

Sept. 27
" Friday Four Ind. brought 4 deer, and went away immediately."

Sept. 28
" Saturday Boat builders came with their timbers &c. in the eveng tuo Canoes arrived from Oxford House three Ind. and Tho. McNab - Mr Sinclair dreads Canadians coming close neighbours and requests men to enable him to act with hopes of succefs."

Sept. 29
" Sunday Tuo men went to the woods for James Ballenden who I mean sending to OH with Tho. McNab."

Sept. 30
" Monday heavy rain all day - People employed at various duties within doors - Tho. McNab & Ja. Ballenden got their Canoe Ready for Starting to Morrow."

Oct. 1 1805
" Tuesday Snow and Sleet - in the morng Tho. McNab James Ballenden and 2 Indians in 2 Canoes set out for Oxford House - tuo men Returned from Mr Cook."

Oct. 2
" Wednesday Frost and Snow - the 2 Ind. that accompanied the men from Mr Cook went away."

Oct. 3
" Thursday Mr Bunn went to his tent at 10 Shillg Creek and 8 men to Pennycutaway to hunt there - in the eveng tuo men came from Mr Tate for factory duty."

Oct. 4
" Friday Several deer seen crofsing the river - One caught in the snares."

Oct. 5
" Saturday 6 Ind. came from the N with Deer Skins - they left some Venison at the NRiver where John McNab is tenting - 5 Wooders came home."

Oct. 6 to 13
" Sunday Ind. of yesterday took alittle debt and necefsaries - Wooders returned to their tent - now a samenefs of employ commences. shall Relate occurrences Weekly - during this the Seine was hauled with little succefs - Rec'd afew Partridges from Mr Bunn & other hunters, Venison from Ind. & afew deer from the Snares."

Oct. 14 to 20
" Boat builders began to build aWooden Canoe, and tuo of the Hunters from Pennycutaway brought afine haul of fish. afew partridges from J McNab - much Ice in the river - Divine Service this day."

Oct. 21 to 27
" During the Week Indians from the N brought afine Sample of Venison from thence. Killed several fine Pigs - got several deer from the hedge - Boat builders finished the Canoe and began to a Second - Performed divine Service this day."

Oct. 28 to Nov. 3 1805
" Three Indians from the E brought afew furs - Killed seven hogs above 800lb - and a Bull 550lb - some of the hunters and Wooders came home - good succefs from the former - this day divine Service performed - and the Hunters and wooders returned to their tents."

Nov. 4 to 10
" More succefs in hunting than usual at so early aperiod gives good prospects for aplentiful winter - during the preceeding week the hunters & wooders came home and this day returned to their tents after divine Service."

Nov. 11 to 17
" Occurrences very little from these of last week, freshened as much Beef in the river as we trust will serve for the winter. hunters has been succefsful, part of them & wooders came yesterday and this day after divine Service returned to their tents."

Nov. 18 to 24
" Little change in duties - so far the season plentiful and foxes more numerous than for years past, the tenters as usual came home and again went to their tents - divine Service this day."

Nov. 25 to Dec. 1 1805
" Tuo Ind. came in during the week, families are hungry, they have trapped martins succefsfuly - they returned with asupply of food - Boat builders finished the Canoe & began a Boat - Wooders & hunters as usual came home and after divine Service this day they went away."

Dec. 2 to 8
" One of the Boat builders with one of the E Hunters went to look for timber at Ship beacon for repairing the old, or building a new one, and to make atent ready for the men to be employed on that duty, they returned yesterday, 2 Wooders and 3 hunters came also. good hunts of partridges & Foxes more numerous than last year - After divine Service this day they went to their tents."

Dec. 9 to 15
" Five men went with the Boat builder to fell and collect Timber for a New Ship Beacon 40 miles off on the E Shore, Indians from the N brought Venison & returned - Several of our hunters came home and 3 Wooders and this day after Divine Service went to their tents."

Dec. 16 to 22
" Several Indians came in during the week, no complaints of scarcity, and our oun hunters continue their succefs. divine Service this day - the men having collected timber for the Beacon came home this eveng. all hands continue at home till after the holidays."

Dec. 23 to 29
" People cutting wood Brewing beer & several Indians came with succefsful Martin hunts and partake of our X mas fare - and we are celebrating the season as usual. Several Indians went away this day and a family came in, paid part of their debts. - apacket from CR."

Dec. 30 to Jan. 5 1806
" The Wooders and hunters went to their tents on Friday last and at the same time the Churchill packeters set out, with them J. McNab & 3 men with 4 dogs went to the spot where Mr Auld placed a Boat load of Spirits last fall, half way between the Factories, - there J. McNab and one man to stay till all is got home, tuo men & the dogs to come immediately back with as much as they can bring - Divine Service this day."

Jan. 6 to 12
" Boat builders went to the Woods to cut plank. 4 Ind. from the N came with good hunts and say their Companions are doing well. the hunters from the eastern tent brought partridges and have been succefsful in killing foxes - 3 Wooders came home and this day they & hunters Returned to their tents and the Indians went away."

Jan. 13 to 19
" Indians came for Oatmeal and returned to their families the hunters came home - good succefs - three of the wooders came and tuo men & 4 dogs from the N with spirits - J. McNab & 1 man stays there - this day after divine Service the Hunters & Wooders went to their tents."

Jan. 20 to 26
" The N travellers went to the N tent to freshen Geese (left there last spring) for the men to be employed in hauling spirits from the N. - the Wooders and part of the hunters came as usual and this day after divine Service went to their tents."

Jan. 27 to Feb. 2 1806
" Invalids came for support to their fasmilies and the Wooders & hunters as usual - partridges continue plentiful, tuo Wooders after divine service this day returned to their tent, the hunters stay for a journey to the N."

Feb. 3 to 9
" On Monday 6 men and an Indian set out for the Nward to bring Spirits. succefsful in netting partridges about the factory - 3 wooders came home and this day after divine Service returned to their tent."

Feb. 10 to 16
" On the 14th Three men from Mr Cook came for Articles requested by him, and the men from the N returned yesterday with 80 G'lls of Spirits - wooders came as usual and after divine service this day they went back."

Feb. 17 to 23
" Mr Cooks men got ready for setting off and the Nern travellers returned to their former employs. tuo Indians brought good Martin hunts and returned to their families - Wooders & hunters came home - and after divine service went away."

Feb. 24 to Mar. 2 1806
" Mr Cooks men set out on Monday - Three Indians brought fine Martin hunts and returned to their families and foxes are more numerous about us than for years past. hunters brought good loads of partridges and the Wooders came home having completed the duty there. 6 Sawyers remain at the tent after divine Service this day the hunters went to their tent."

Mar. 3 to 9
" The partridges Nets continue succefsful and afew foxes are getting from the Traps & Guns - much Snow about the works Requires much labour to wheel away. three Sawyers and a hunter came home - after divine Service this day they went to their tents."

Mar. 10 to 16
" On the 11th five men, an Indian, and 2 dogs set out for the remaing Spirits from the N. One man and an Indian Accompanied them with a packet from Churchill - One of the Sawyers and aHunter Came home. partridges still plenty - agreat blefsing - After divine Service this day the Hunter & Sawyer Returned to their tents."

Mar. 17 to 23
" Yesterday the men Returned from the N with the Spirits. J. McNab and Companion accompanied them, they brought Several foxes & Martins killed during their stay there. tuo Indian youths brought good martin hunts - the Sawyers brought all home having finished the businefs there & One of the E hunters Came and Returned to his tent this day after divine service."

Mar. 24 to 30
" People clearing drains, building an Ice house, Boat house, and various other duties, Hunters Continue succefsful in killing Partridges - Yesterday One from the E brought 200 and this day Returned to his tent after divine Service."

Mar. 31 to Apr. 6 1806
" The packeters returned from CR On Monday - some Indians came for food to their families and returned. Partridge Hunters go on succefsfully, they brought 200 yesterday and this day they returned to their tent after divine Service."

Apr. 7 to 13
" Tuo Indians brought Venison from the N during the week - others came for food - partridges continue plentiful - Divine Service this day."

Apr. 14 to 20
" During the week Sent all the necefsaries for the N Goose tent, and J. McNab and one man Stays there. Began the distillation - Several Indians came and Paid their debts and are rejoicing for their succefsful winter."

Apr. 21 to 27
" Celebrated St. George on the 23d as usual. a Number of Indians went with materials for the E Goose tent - and afew came from the N with Venison and Deer Skins and tell us a Number more will be here in afew days with fine hunts."

Apr. 28 to May 4 1806
" Distilled the Spirits for Inland consumption - many Indians came in during the week and in general paid their debts - Men hauled home a Number of boards from the woods - lodged necefsaries at the E Goose tent and one man went to transact the businefs there - Divine Service this day."

May 5 to 11
" During the week repaired the Deer Hedge, packed part of the Inland Consignments. Open water in Spots in the South Channel of the river - Hunting Indians coming daily for food - Divine Service this day and in the eveng an Indian brought the first Goose."

May 12
" Monday Now businefs becomes more urgent and various daily transactions will be particularized - People busy about the Craft for Inland - the Boat House - and Setting the Lime Kiln - 20 Geese fm Indians."

May 13
" Tuesday Completed the Lime Kiln and began to erect aframe for the Ice House - 50 Geese Rec'd."

May 14
" Wednesday Five Indians came with Venison from the Nward."

May 15
" Thursday The Indians of yesterday went away - On opening the Crafse? for Inland packages found while? Rating it 5/9 pr yard [5 shillings 9 pence?] - before this when selling it to the men 1/6 was supposed a fair price, and being charged so in Acct. Book, now showed them its real value, which they will rather pay than be deprived of its use."

May 16
" Friday The Ice pafsed quietly by the Factory - Rec'd 70 Geese from the Hunters."

May 17
" Saturday Mr Sutherland and 2 men went in a Small Boat to examine the State of the River - he says the water is good and Shores Clear of Ice."

May 18
" Sunday Seven Ind. came from the Marsh and agreed to go to the Rock with the Boats."

May 19
" Monday Launched the Trial, Mercury, and Jupiter Boats and got all ready for loading and setting out to morrow."

May 20
" Tuesday In the Morng loaded the Trial and Jupiter and at 11 AM Will. Manson with 17 men and 7 Ind. set out with Cargo for Inland - Mr Bunn went to transact the businefs at the Rock - 6 men besides Mr Sutherland & Self Remain at the Factory."

May 21
" Wednesday Tuo Canoes of Indians came down the River with good trades."

May 22
" Thursday The Indians of Yesterday preparing to go to the E to morrow."

May 23
" Friday The Indians went away several came from the back of the Island - no Geese flying."

May 24
" Saturday John Dearon came from the E Goose tent - has Salted 7 Hogsheads."

May 25
" Sunday Most of the E Goose Hunters came to the Factory."

May 26
" Monday People at the new house and various duties - hot weather - thunder in the eveng."

May 27
" Tuesday heavy Rain - Several of the E hunters went away."

May 28
" Wednesday a family of Ind. came from the Eward brought a few Geese."

May 29
" Thursday All the Indians went up the river to kill Deer."

May 30
" Friday Cold weather with the Indians Boys got the Batteau from Wooders tent."

May 31
" Saturday An Aged Indian with his Relations came in 5 Canoes with good trades."

June 1 1806
" Sunday Indians of Yesterday Regaling themselves."

June 2
" Monday Tuo Canoes of Indians came with good winter hunts - Wm Manson and crew Returned from the Rock, Mr Bunn and one man Remains in charge of Cargo landed there. J. McNab with his Companion and 7 of the N Hunters came - Salted 7 Hhds of Geese there."

June 3
" Tuesday Ten men preparing for another trip to the Rock."

June 4
" Wednesday a Boatfull of Indians went to the N to hunt Deer - loaded tuo small Boats for Inland ready to start to morrow - Mr Tate and 5 men in alarge and small Canoe arrived - his trade much lefs than last year owing to a Canadian Post - 13 men - having placed themselves within 2 days walk of his house last fall."

June 5
" Thursday Ten men in tuo Boats set out for Gordon House. a number of Indians went away and Ekames & Gang in 8 Canoes brought afine trade - above 600 Beav. - to morrow I intend setting out for Inland."

"By Mr James Sutherland"

June 6
" Friday At 11 AM the Gov. and 4 men in a small boat set out for Inland."

June 7
" Saturday Wm Manson and 6 men preparing for Rafting firewood up the River."

June 8
" Sunday Much snow fell - freezes hard."

June 9
" Monday William Manson and 6 men went up the river to raft firewood - At 3 PM 4 Canadians arrived with a Note from a Mr Will. McKay - Requesting a supply of Provisions for himself and men - dispatched tuo Indian youths in a small Canoe with a Letter to Mr McNab informing him of the above Strangers - several Canoes of Indians arrived from whom we got 600 Beav."

June 10
" Tuesday The 4 Canadians returned with a small supply of provisions for Mr McKay - several Indians arrived from the N River with Deer Skins. at 8 PM Mr McKay and party arrived in a large Canoe in a very distrefsed situation having lost his all by his Canoe being upset Coming down Nelson River - he requests afurther supply of provisions in order to enable him & 8 men to Reach his last winters residence - this sudden visit is unexpected and the situation he is in urges me to Comply with his request without waiting an answer to my Letter of yesterday to Mr McNab as it must be weeks at least before that can be expected."

June 11
" Wednesday At Noon 11 Canoes of Indians went up the River. Supplied Mr McKay and party with provisions to Carry them back to the Crofs Lake for which place they set off at 4 PM and pitched their tents near to the point of Marsh."

June 12
" Thursday The weather being favorable this morng Mr McKay got round the point of Marsh - 14 Canoes of Indians left the Factory."

June 13
" Friday Four men went with a Boat to the Eward Goose tent to bring home the Geese - 8 Canoes of Indians arrived from whom we got about 300 Beav."

June 14
" Saturday William Manson and party brought down 2 Rafts of Plank &c."

June 15
" Sunday Tuo Small boats arrived from the Rock with 45 bundles of furs also the boat from the Eward Goose tent with 7 Hhds of Geese."

June 16
" Monday People carrying Plank, Beacons &c on the bank. others repairing Mr Tates Canoe - six men preparing for the rock to Morrow."

June 17
" Tuesday a Small boat loaded with Inland Cargo set out for the Rock - Tuo Indian youths from Oxford House brought Letters."

June 18
" Wednesday Several Ind. arrived from the NRiver - Mr Tho. McNab and one man arrived from the Rock House - the former is to erect and occupy astation close to that settled by the Canadians last fall near Merrys House."

June 19
" Thursday Variously employed - George Graham and Gilb't Manson very ill and confined to bed."

June 20
" Friday Several Natives arrived from up the river and returned in the eveng with a supply of Oatmeal to their families - pumped the Cellars."

June 21
" Saturday a Number of Indians arrived for a supply of Oatmeal. no Deer to be found - William Manson and party brought down six Rafts of firewood - pumped the Cellars."

June 22
" Sunday Wm Manson and party returned to their tent - George Graham and Gilbert Manson remain dangerously ill."

June 23
" Monday a heavy fall of snow all this day - Several Ind. came down the River for Oatmeal and Returned to their families in the eveng."

June 24
" Tuesday Heavy Rain all day with Snow at intervals."

June 25
" Wednesday Mefs Tate & McNab set out with 5 Englishmen and One Indian (as Guide) in one large and one Small Canoe for the Bungee Country."

June 26
" Thursday Mr Cook with one Englishman and 2 Indian Youths arrived from NRiver."

June 27
" Friday early this Morng a Boat arrived from the Rock with 45 bundles of furs also a Number of Indians from Nelson River with Deers Horns."

June 28
" Saturday The Indians of yesterday went away. Wm Manson and party brought home 6 Rafts of firewood - Packing Goods for Mr Cook."

June 29
" Wm Manson and party returned to their tent."

June 30
" Monday Black smith at Iron work for Mr Cook the others at various duties."

July 1 1806
" Tuesday Black smith as Yesterday - One man Repairing nets others Variously employed - Put the Barge in the River."

July 2
" Wednesday Boat builder making beacon Steps, others Variously employed."

July 3
" Thursday Mr Calder and 4 men in a Canoe and Small Boat arrived from te Rock with 29 bundles of furs - George Graham continues dangerously ill."

July 4
" Friday last night 15 Europeans and 2 Indians arrived from Nelson River with 79 bundles of furs in 5 Canoes. tuo Batteaus and 10 men set off to the Rock with the last of the Inland Cargo - afew fish from the Nets."

July 5
" Saturday Wm Manson and tuo men Arrived from the woods - 4 Indian youths brought 12 Deer."

July 6
" Sunday Wooders returned to their tent also the Indian youths to their Relations."

July 7
" Monday Mr Cook and men preparing to set out the first favorable opportunity - Some fish from the Nets."

July 8
" Tuesday Mr Cooks men employed as yesterday, the three men that remains Pumping the Cellars."

July 9
" Wednesday Mr Cook and 4 Indian youths left the Factory."

July 10
" Thursday Sixteen men in 4 large Canoes set out for the River Settlements - a Number of Indians came from NRiver who returned to their families with a supply of Oatmeal. Wm Manson and party brought down 8 Rafts of firewood. G. Graham and Gilb. Manson very ill."

July 11
" Friday Mr Cooks men detained at the point of Marsh by a Gale of wind."

July 12
" Saturday Wm Manson and party arrived - Gale continues."

July 13
" Sunday Will. Manson and men returned to their tent."

July 14
" Monday Thirteen Canoes of Indians arrived with deer Skins. in the eveng Mr Cooks Canoes Rounded the Point of Marsh."

July 15
" Tuesday Several Indians arrived from the Eward with Deer Skins - George Graham very ill."

July 16
" Wednesday A number of Indians arrived from up the River with Deer Skins."

"By Mr McNab"

July 17
" Thursday In the Afternoon I arrived found businefs going satisfactorily on under Mr Sutherlands direction - many Indians waiting my Arrival - G. Graham past hopes of recovery."

July 18
" Friday Mr Bunn and 10 men arrived from Gordon House with all the Inland Cargoes - except Mr Fidlers department - G. Graham expired in the eveng - 3 Canoes of Indians brought Deer Skins and dry Venison."

July 19
" Saturday Several Indians took their winter debts - in the Afternoon the Remains of George Graham were interred."

July 20
" Sunday Many Indians took debt - observed a Smoke on the opposite Shore - afemale from Severn was found there - says afamily quarrel is the cause of her coming here."

July 21
" Monday Twelve Canoes of Indians went away. others making ready for setting out to morrow."

July 22
" Tuesday Eight Canoes of Indians went away for the winter. others getting ready to set out to morrow. People Cutting Grafs, Brewing, Packing furs and other duties."

July 23
" Wednesday Twelve Canoes of Ind. went away for the winter. Opened most of the Inland trades and Packed part of them."

July 24
" Thursday All the E Ind. went away People Packing furs bringing Stones for the Ship &c."

July 25
" Friday All hands bringing Stones for the Ship, and the Grafs from three Mowers on Hay Island - Putting up the launch and making Inland Rundlets."

July 26
" Saturday Fishing nets Succefsful, People as Yesterday Mowers Came home."

July 27
" Sunday Rec'd afew Small ducks from Indians the Mowers Returned to their tent."

July 28
" Monday All hands packing furs, Cutting grafs, at the Launch, and making Inland Rund. - Cooked the Hay - a Number of Young Geese and Ducks from Indians."

July 29
" Tuesday Got home tuo boat loads of Grafs, and the Beacons Ready for Setting, which we are now Anxious to have Completed - water continues so high as impedes much the finishing of the Launch - hope no accident has happened to Mr Fidler as no news from OH as expected has been Rec'd. Indians of yesterday went away - to morrow I expect one in to carry a Packet to CR in company with a European."

July 30
" Wednesday Mr Tate and one man in a small Canoe arrived this morng - says Tho. McNab and party are proceeding shortly their Canoes being bad and the falls and Carrying places in the way very Numerous - further that there has not been an Indian at Merrys House since he left it and thinks they are all gone after the Canadians - Nine men went for the Geese at N Goose tent, and Mr Sutherland and 12 men set the outer & inner beacon - Three Canoes of Indians went away and one Canoe came from the S in order to go to CR with a Packet."

July 31
" Thursday Packing furs and bringing Grafs from the Mowers - the men Returned with the Geese from the N - a European and Indian went with a Packet to CR."

Aug. 1 1806
" Friday Mr Fidler and 9 men in 3 Canoes and a Batteau arrived with 12 bundles of furs, I intended him to have wintered with a party at Swan River, and Mr Swain to Poplar River, the latter is gone there; Mr Fidler thinks that Swan River is not now worth occupying, from the Indians of that quarter having Retired to the interior Settlements and Came to this factory to exprefs his sentiments thereon - he says the Canadian Proprietor with whom he formed an Agreement during the winter has not fulfilled his part thereof; - An now the Athapuscau is Relinquished by us, from whence the Canadians have this year 450 bundles of furs - Mr Fidler and party brought only 4 - this is the Consequence of having few men."

Aug. 2
" Saturday All hands at the Launch, making hay, & Packing furs."

Aug. 3
" Sunday Rec'd afew Ducks from Indians."

Aug. 4
" Monday Four men preparing for Oxford House the others carrying firewood up the bank and finishing the Launch."

Aug. 5
" Tuesday Four men set out for Oxford House in a Canoe loaded with flour and Oatmeal, our Stock now of Many Articles is small and Prevents Sending what will be Required - we are now Anxiously wishing for the Ships Arrival - all hands Carrying firewood up the bank - An Indian arrived from Thomas McNab and party who are building aHouse a short distance from the Canadians."

Aug. 6
" Wednesday The Severn Brig appeared in the offing and brought up in 5 fm Hole - blows fresh."

Aug. 7
" Thursday Mr Taylor came in his Boat and brought Letters from the Sern Settlements - Says Mr Thomas is coming from Severn by land."

Aug. 8
" Friday blows a Gale Nly - An Indian Came a crofs the N Path with a Rump and Quarter of Venison and afew tongues, Says he left 5 Companions with the boat they have had during the Summer loaded with 30 deer, which they could not venture to bring round the point of Marsh - he Returned instantly with Several others to bring what they can carry of the Venison - the Remainder to be dried on the Spot."

Aug. 9
" Saturday The Indian of yesterday with his companions Came round the point of marsh with aboat load of Venison, part of injured by long Keeping - the Brig came up to the factory."

Aug. 10
" Sunday Mr Thomas with an Indian companion arrived overland from Severn - the trade of that Settlement is considerably more than last year."

Aug. 11
" Monday All hands carrying firewood up the bank - in the Afternoon Stacked the Hay."

Aug. 12
" Tuesday The Beaver Brig came to the Launch and her Cargo was taken on Shore - Marked the Homeward bound Cargo Rec'd ready for Europe."

Aug. 13
" Wednesday All hands Carrying firewood up the bank - the Brig dropped down to her Station waiting the Ships Arrival."

Aug. 14
" Thursday Blows a Gale with heavy rain most part of the day - People pumping the Cellars and in door duties."

Aug. 15
" Friday Wind Ely Cool weather - Got the winters firewood up the bank."

Aug. 16
" Saturday People Pumping the Cellars Cutting wood &c."

Aug. 17
" Sunday Rec'd afew ducks from Indians."

Aug. 18
" Monday People bringing Stones and Cutting wood for the Ship - in the forenoon avefsel appeared in the offing and with the Tide she came to an Anchor in 5 fm Hole when from Signal we knew it was your Honors Ship - a Smoke being seen acrofs the NRiver 7 men was sent in a Boat but the Sea Running high they Could not turn the Point of marsh and Returned to the factory, three Canoes from the NRiver came loaded with Venison."

Aug. 19
" Tuesday People getting Stones and Cutting wood for the Ship. Capt. Turner came in his boat - says our Packet is coming by Land - Long boat went down to the Ship."

Aug. 20
" Wednesday Sent aBoat and Canoe acrofs the N River to meet and afsist the packeters from Churchill. in the eveng Mr Auld arrived from thence requesting Several necefsary Articles not Rec'd there - 15 deer from Indians."

Aug. 21
" Thursday Long boat and Brig came to the Launch with Cargo. the Canoe of yesterday came back from NRiver brought the Orkney Letters only - the Packet box which the Indian carried is not yet come, the man having travelled faster left the Indian who would not deliver the packet to him."

Aug. 22
" Friday The Packet arrived in the Eveng - Indians brought some Venison."

Aug. 23
" Saturday Mefs Sinclair and Swain with 13 men in 4 Canoes brought 16 bundles of furs - Mr Swain not seeing any Indians at Poplar River returned to report the case and wait further Regulations - Mr Cook and 8 men in 2 Canoes arrived with 12 bundles of furs."

Aug. 24
" Sunday afew Small birds from Indians."

Aug. 25
" Monday In the morng early Mr Auld set out for the Beaver Brig in 5 fm Hole - She sailed in the forenoon for Churchill with Articles required there from York and Severn."

Aug. 26
" Tuesday Boats going to and from the Ship Cargoes nearly shipt and landed - the SR Pafsengers set out in a Batteau for that place."

Aug. 27
" Wednesday heavy rain at times - Mr Fidler and 12 men preparing for Inland."

Aug. 28
" Thursday The Inlanders Repairing their Canoes &c. Longboats came from the Ship."

Aug. 29
" Friday Mr Fidler and 12 men in 3 Canoes set out for Cumberland House, and Mefs Thomas & Swain for Severn. in the forenoon Capt. Turner went on board - in the eveng closed the packet. I conclude this Journal with every fervent wish for prosperity to your Honors Affairs.
being
Honble Sirs
Your faithfull Humble Servt.
John McNab."



" Mr McNabs Inland Journal"

June 6 1806
" Friday With the forenoon tide left the Factory in charge of Mr Sutherland and with 4 men set out in awooden Canoe for Gordon House - in the eveng (after putting up above Poplar) tuo Ind. brought a Goose and afew Eggs - no deer - Gave them a Drop of Grog and alittle Tobacco."

June 7
" Saturday Set out early - in the forenoon Came to tuo tents of Indians - Deer Hunters - found here one of the best leading Ind. Says he Cannot pay his debt, that himself and family nearly perished in winter and that his young men are poor also. they are going to the factory to morrow - Gave them Brandy Tob. Bread &c. in the eveng put up near the upper woods."

June 8
" Set out early in tuo hours after Stopt some time by heavy rain - Again started and soon after met 9 Canoes of Ind. going to the factory - they in general have had a Succefsful winter - After giving them Tob., Biscuit, &c they went on. at Steel River Point was again Stopt by heavy Rain Sleet & Snow - Put up for the night."

June 9
" Monday This morning the woods and Shores covered with Snow, froze in the night - Marker Covered with athick Crust of Ice and Snow - departed at 6 and at the same hour in the eveng Slept 6 miles below Hill River."

June 10
" Tuesday Set out early afew hours after met 3 Canoes of Ind. going to the Factory - One of them says he lost 50 B. in prime furs by Accidental fire in the woods - Letters from Inland mention Canadian intelligence of the death of my late worthy mefsmate and officer Mr Goodwin, sorrowful news, and that a Mr McKay and 8 men are gone down Nelson River to wait the Arrival of a Ship from Europe, Unpleasant all? together. in the eveng put up half way in Hill River."

June 11
" Wednesday Started at 4 am, at 9 Overtook the Boats that left the Factory the day before me - at 3 pm arrived at Gordon House found Mr Bunn well - 2 Invalids from Inland Stay to go to the factory - at 6 the boats arrived - Rainy weather."

June 12
" Thursday Intending to Settle a department close to that of the Canadians who Cut off Mr Tates Ind. last winter. I find it necefsary to appoint the men out of these now here - On telling tuo who wrote for wages last year that on their Arrival at the factory that would be their next employ, they both desire to be back at Ship time, that they may Return home if their Requests are not granted - One of them last year in his Resolves exprefsed his Reliance on Your Honors terms, Now he says unlefs a Sum Satisfactory to himself is granted he will stay no longer - this is unpleasant - if pofsible he shall feel the Consequence of this inconsistency - Unloaded the Boats."

June 13
" Friday Tuo Batteaus set out for the factory 44 Bundles of furs and a bag of feathers on board."

June 14
" Saturday Thomas McNab and an Indian Youth arrived in a Small Canoe. they Came with Mr Sinclair and 11 men in 4 Canoes with his furs on Sunday last after afsisting them up half way to OH Returned here - I mean to send Tho. McNab to the factory to prepare for setting out with a party to build a House beside Mr Tates opponent as he himself will not undertake that duty."

June 16
" Monday This morng Tho. McNab and Jn. Robison Proceeded to the Factory in a Small Canoe."

June 20
" Friday In the Afternoon 4 men in a Canoe with Mr Bird arrived - soon after 9 men in 3 Canoes came with 49 Bundles of furs - Trade in the Saskatshewan better than last year - Mr Bird informs me one of the men, Wm Budge (who formerly to and from the Canadians) on being sent with Letters from his winters Residence at Beaver River to Paint Creek, set out with 2 Canadians employed by their Master on similar duty - that on the journey one eveng after the days travail was over, Budge overheard his companions say one to the other " let us Roast the Englishman as he is lazey and will not afsist in beating the path"(ie walking first in the Snow). Startled at this, and being jealous of the Canadians from his having formerly deceived their Masters, he took the opportunity when both were asleep to load his Gun and discharge at both; one was instantly shot dead, the other awakened, and seeing Budge employed with his Gun thought he had been cleaning it, and that the Report proceeded from fireing off pouder only, and not knowing his Companion was dead, lay down beside him again quietly, but was soon after fired at himself, wounded in One Arm and breast slightly, and the wrist bones of the other Arm broke; Now he Supposed them attacked by Ind. and Run to Budge for afsistance, with his oun Gun in the Strongest hand, by this time Budge had again charged his Gun with pouder only, this he discharged in the distrefsed Mans face, who now first knew his enemy, and instantly in his wretched State Returned as fast as he could to his Masters House, and Budge proceeded on with his Mifsion which he accomplished a few days after and Related the Circumstance to Mr Hallett and the Canadian Master at that Station - the latter Required his being delivered up to him for Conveyance to Montreal to abide the Result of the law. Mr Hallet Complied, and the miserable object is now in the Canadians Custody - Mr Bird says this poor man Budge has laboured under Symptons of deranged ideas ever since he eloped from the Canadian Service, and ever Since has imagined they meant to afsasinate him."

June 22
" Sunday Three Canoes set out with Cargo for OH and in the Afternoon four Canoes Arrived with 54 bundles of furs."

June 23
" Monday a Batteau arrived from the Factory with Cargo. I learn a Mr McKay and 8 Canadians has been there and have again returned Inland."

June 24
" Tuesday This morng early 4 Canoes set out with Inland Cargo and the Boat of Monday for the factory with 46 bundles of furs. soon after in Company with Mr Bird I set out in a Canoe with 4 men for OH - Slept near the first Carrying place in Hill River."

June 25
" Wednesday Set out at 4 AM and in the eveng put up on aRock afew miles below Swampy Lake."

June 26
" Thursday Started before 4 this Morng - At Noon pafsed the 3 Canoes that left the Rock on Sunday last and at 4 pm Reached the Boats at Jack tent waiting for Cargo - here we slept for the Night."

June 27
" Friday Got under way early and at 7 in the eveng put up at Sandy Point afew miles below Trout River."

June 28
" Saturday Departed at 5 this morng and at 2 PM Reached Oxford House - found Mr Sinclair and all there well."

July 8 1806
" Tuesday a large Boat and Canoe arrived with Cargo from below - Mr Bunn says tuo Canoes more will carry all from the Rock except afew Articles expected from the Factory which must be done pr? first Returng Canoes - I am now Anxious for Mr Fidlers arrival so much prefsing duty at the factory which must be done will not admit my stay above 4 or 5 days longer."

July 11
" Friday blows aGale which will Stop Mr Fidler if at the Winnipeg Lake - this he cannot have pafsed if he does not reach this to Morrow."

July 13
" Sunday As there is no probability of Mr Fidler having Crofsed the Winnipeg and his Arrival here uncertain - the urgent duty at the factory requiring immediate attention shuts out every prudential idea of Staying here longer - I therefore leave a plan with Mefs Bird and Sinclair intimating my intentions for Mefs Fidlers and Swains Guidance the Completion? of which may Ultimately rest on the dispositions of the men, many of whose Contracts are expired - in the forenoon set out in a Canoe with 4 men for York Factory - Mr Sinclair as soon as pofsible is to set out with an Indian to explore? Mr McKays post at Crofs Lake - try if he can find out the Canadians designs and if he Can fall in with Indians he means to have a Station in that quarter the ensuing winter. in the eveng put up for the night in Knee Lake."

July 14
" Monday Rose early - at 9 AM Met 5 Canoes with the last of the Inland Cargoes - in the eveng pitched tents in Hill River."

July 15
" Tuesday Set out before Sun Rise at 9 AM Reached Gordon House - Mr Bunn well businefs completed there - at Noon set out for the factory - Mr Bunn and Remaining men to follow to morrow with all the furs - in the eveng Stopt for the night 10 Miles down Steel River."

July 16
" Wednesday started early a Gale of wind Ely Stopt us below Steel River till eveng when we got under way till midnight, then Stopt tuo hours - again proceeded and at 2 pm Reached the factory on the 17th - found 11 tents of Ind. on the plantation many waiting to take their winter debts - George Graham Carpenter in a dying state."

1M162 B.239/a/112

Home