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| The china department in Hudson Bay Company, year unknown |
I knew The Bay was founded on May 2, 1670 but I didn't realize the founders were Pierre-Esprit Radisson and Medard des Groseillers the French explorers! After having their furs confiscated by French officials, approached the English court, highlighting the riches to be found in Canada.
After failing to obtain French support on their terms, they went to England in 1665 and interested Prince Rupert, cousin of Charles II. Rupert persuaded the king, several merchants and noblemen to back the venture.
The Hudson Bay Company became the largest fur trading company in North America, establishing trading posts along the coasts of Hudson Bay, James Bay and the Arctic Ocean. The company traded with Indigenous peoples, exchanging goods like weapons, gunpowder, and blankets for furs from animals like beavers, foxes, and bear. As the demand for furs declined, the Hudson Bay Company diversified its activities, eventually evolving into a mercantile business selling a wide variety of products.
For 355 years, Hudson Bay Company operated in Canada. Yesterday, they decided to close all their stores but six in order to save the company.
I'm sorry to see this retailer leave our province. They will still have stores in Ontario and Quebec and I hope they remain open.
