The Letters of Charles John Brydges 1879-1889: Hudson Bay Company Land Commissioner

Author: Charles John Brydges (1827-1889) edited by Hartwell Bowsfield

Year: 1977-1981

Publisher: Hudson Bay Record Society

Place: Winnipeg

Description:

2 volumes. lxxxii+380+xiv pages with frontispiece and index. lxxxiv+328+[xviii members] pages with frontispiece, appendices, maps (one folding) and index. Royal octavo (9 1/2" x 6") bound in original publisher's black cloth with gilt lettering to spine and Hudson Bay Coat of Arms to cover in original jackets. Volumes XXXI and XXXIII. First editions.

In January 1879 through his managerial reputation and continuing connections within the Tory party, Brydges began a new career in the Hudson s Bay Company. Nominally land commissioner of the HBC, he was secretly authorized by the governor, the deputy governor (Sir John Rose), and the board of the company to follow the principle of consolidation in a new context. He should progressively take over all company operations, including land, furs, supplies, and stores, thus supplanting Donald Alexander Smith* and others and creating what was in effect a more varied and comprehensive chief commissionership. Ironically, Brydges company years coincided with Smith s rise as liaison officer between Ottawa, the HBC, and the Canadian Pacific Railway, climaxed by Smith becoming the HBC s largest shareholder and governor. As Brydges most exacting assignment, his connection with the HBC produced strains which would precipitate his death but it also held its triumphs.

Condition: 

Corners bumped. Jacket volume XXXI lightly soiled else near fine in a fine jackets.