Colonial Despatches
The colonial despatches of Vancouver Island and British Columbia 1846-1871
Despatch to London
Kennedy, Arthur to Cardwell, Edward 20 August 1864, CO 305:23, no. 9426, 62.
Abstract
Despatch to London.
Minutes (2), Other documents (1).
This document contains mentions of Indigenous Peoples. The authors of these documents
often perpetuate a negative perspective of Indigenous Peoples and it is important
to look critically at these mentions. They sometimes use terminology that is now considered
hurtful and offensive. To learn more about modern terminology pertaining to Indigenous
Peoples, Indigenous ways of knowing, and decolonization, please refer to the Glossary of terms.
Kennedy reports his appointment of Major Foster as
a resident paid Magistrateat Sooke. The Colonial Office minutes their approval of the appointment
Assuming that [Kennedy] has the means of paying the Salary.
No. 55
20th August 1864
Sir
Consequent upon the discovery of gold and the great influx of people
at Sooke Harbour I have found it necessary as a measure of safety to
appoint a resident paid Magistrate.
I was informed that American boats in considerable numbers were
plying there without licences, and it is absolutely requisite that a
Magistrate should be on the spot to prevent whiskey selling to the
Indians, andcollisions
collisions between them and the white population, and to
guard against what is equally important, fights between the various
Native and sometimes hostile Tribes who are attracted there by high
wages and whiskey.
collisions between them and the white population, and to
guard against what is equally important, fights between the various
Native and sometimes hostile Tribes who are attracted there by high
wages and whiskey.
I have appointed Major Foster who has resigned his seat in the
Legislative Assembly to accept the appointment, which he clearly
understands to be temporary and subject to your approval.
I have fixed the salary at the rate of $1750 per annum the same as
that of the Police Magistrateof
of Victoria which is under present
circumstances very reasonable. Policemen in Victoria are now
receiving $3 1/2 per day, and their services, I am informed by the
Commissioner cannot be retained on other terms.
of Victoria which is under present
circumstances very reasonable. Policemen in Victoria are now
receiving $3 1/2 per day, and their services, I am informed by the
Commissioner cannot be retained on other terms.
