Northern Québec

Last Update: 15/OCTOBER/2025

NOTE: The northern reaches of the province, once known as New Québec, now Nunavik, were originally part of the Hudson's Bay Company's Prince Rupert's Land beginning in 1670, and was later designated as the Ungava District of the Northwest Territories from 1895 to 1912. The former border with Québec had generally run along the headwaters of the Harricana, Nottaway, and Rupert Rivers southeast of James Bay (including the Lac Matagami and Lac Chibougamou/Lac Mistassini regions) until 1898; then along the 52nd Parallel, or generally the length of the Eastmain River, from Eastmain towards Labrador City. The Caniapiscau, George, and Whale Rivers watershed south of Ungava Bay had been claimed by Newfoundland as part of Labrador. The final border with Labrador was not settled until 1927. All offshore islands in James Bay, Hudson Bay, Ungava Bay, and the Hudson Strait were assigned to the Northwest Territories in 1920 (now part of Nunavut Territory since 1999).

Pike Lake House
(1826 - 1880 ?),
A Hudson's Bay Co. post located south of Lac Chibougamau, about 15 miles west of Lac Nicabau.

Pike Lake, first known as Kennooshaiwagumissee, was established by James Robertson of the Hudson's Bay Company in the spring of 1826. It was administered by the Rupert's River District. Its purpose was to protect the trade of the HBC against Chomouchoine, a King's Post in the area. In 1827 George Simpson requested the post be renamed Pike Lake instead of Kennooshaiwagumissee "for the sake of brevity". After the HBC purchased the King's Posts in 1831, Pike Lake was retained as a post. Even though the immediate threat of competition had been dealt with, the HBC feared petty traders from the St. Lawrence River area would encroach northward into the Rupert's River area. In 1837 Pike Lake was abandoned. It was re-opened two years later. Pike Lake existed at least until 1872. It is unclear when it was abandoned.

Caipimo Lake Post
(1826 - unknown),
An independent British trading post located just north or west of Pike Lake.

Chibougamau Post
(1918/1928 - 1941), Lac Chibougamau
A Hudson's Bay Co. post on the south shore of the lake.

Chibougamau was established around 1918 as a warehouse for the storage of supplies, located on Chibougamau Lake in present-day Québec. Supplies were freighted to Chibougamau via winter road from St. Félicien and then transported by canoe to Mistassinny the following spring. In 1927 a small fur trade post was erected to act as an outpost of Mistassinny. Chibougamau became a full post some time around 1931.

It appears that Chibougamau was not in operation between 1941 and 1954. In 1956 Chibougamau became a store and was transferred to the Bay Stores Department. In 1964 Chibougamau began operations as a Northern Store, since the Bay Stores were transferred to the administration of the Northern Stores Department. The store was closed in 1984.

Mistassini Posts (2)
(1814 - 1959), Mistissini
A Hudson's Bay Co. post located at the south end of Lac Mistassini (HBC records end 1941). Rebuilt/relocated in 1818, used until 1821. Relocated again in 1821 to the nearby NWCo. post. In 1835 the post was relocated about ten miles north of the NWCo. post site.

The French earlier had a trading post nearby known as Maison des Dorvals, or Chebmonkoue Post (1700 - 1750's). It was located at Eliquabit Point at the south end of the lake, about four miles from the head of Abatagusk Bay. This was a "King's Post". The French were probably here as early as 1673.

The North West Company had a competing post here in 1796 - 1821. This was probably at the same site as the earlier French fort at Eliquabit Point. Taken over by the HBC in 1821, which used it until 1835.

The Hudson's Bay Company established its first post on Lake Mistassinny in 1812. Before this, the lake was the site of five or six different French fur trade posts, with the first one built in 1674. In 1793 the HBC sent John Clark from Eastmain to establish a post at Lake Mistassinny, within a mile of the Canadian post. Instead, Clark made the settlement at Birch Point (Neoskweskau Lake). Between 1803 and 1817, the North West Company operated a post on Lake Mistassinny. The HBC post established in 1812 was located on the extremity of the southern arm of the lake. This post closed in 1816. Mistassinny was re-established in 1818 on a different part of the lake. In 1821 the post was moved once again, into the abandoned North West Company post. Between 1818 and 1821, in addition to trading furs, Mistassinny operated as a fishing station and supply depot for neighbouring posts. Until the early twentieth century, it was supplied from Rupert House. It operated an outpost at Chibougamau between 1918 and 1931.

In 1959 Mistassinny became a Northern Store, administered by the Northern Stores Department. Its store was expanded in 1969 to include a self-service groceteria and dry goods department. In 1978 the community's name was changed to Mistissini, or Baie-du-Poste. In 1987 the Northern Stores were sold to the Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later called North West Company).

Mistassini Posts (1)
(1778 - 1815), Lac Mistissini
A Hudson's Bay Co. post located on the western shore of the lake. Rebuilt in 1812.

The North West Company had a competing post here in 1815.

An independent British trading post was here in 1782.

Temiskamay Post
(1822/1825 - 1881 ?), Lac Albanel
A Hudson's Bay Co. post. Located northeast of Lac Mistassini at Lac Albanel. Also known as Fort Temiskamay. Abandoned ruins were noted in 1884.

The French earlier had a trading post here known as Maison Jolliet (1679 - unknown), located at the lake's outlet on the Temiskamay River.

Temiskamay was established in 1822 to defend the Hudson's Bay Company's frontiers from the encroachment of the King's Posts. It was administered by the Rupert's River District. Temiskamay was abandoned briefly in 1877, since most of the local Aboriginal hunters were trading at Mistassiny. It was reopened in the early 1880's as a wintering outpost of Mistassiny, but was closed again shortly after.

Little Mistassini Lake Post
(1815 - unknown), near Lac Albanel
A Hudson's Bay Co. post located north of Lake Chibougamau.

Rush Lake Post
(1815 - 1822), near Chapais
A small Hudson's Bay Co. post on the Chibougamau River system, west of Lake Chibougamau.

Rush Lake was established in 1815 on the lake by the same name in the Neoskweskau District. It was established by James Robertson, who served as its master. It was successful in attracting business with Aboriginal traders who otherwise would have taken their business to nearby Canadian posts. In 1822 Rush Lake was abandoned.

Waswanipi Posts (2) (3)
(1814 - 1821), Old Post, Lac Waswanipi
A North West Co. post originally located on an island in the lake. It may have been relocated at least once before the HBC took it over in 1822.

The Hudson's Bay Co. post (Waswanipi House) (1822 - 1941) was located at the foot of the lake at the Waswanipi River outlet. A previous post was first built in 1819. The Cree First Nations settlement at Old Post was relocated in 1978.

Alternate spellings found in the records include Woswonnupy (before 1821), and Woswonaby (after 1822).

Waswanipi was established by Patrick Flyn when he built a post near a North West Company establishment in July 1819. The post was situated on Lake Waswanipi in Québec. After the HBC's amalgamation with the North West Company in 1821, the Southern Department immediately abandoned its own recently established posts on Gull Lake (Lac au Goéland) and Waswanipi Lake in favour of the Canadian house at Waswanipi. In 1822 Waswanipi was transferred to Eastmain and George Bryson, the Waswanipi clerk, was appointed to Grand Lac. In 1822 the post was supplied from Moose Factory.

Waswanipi was primarily a fur trade post. There was a limited amount of competition at the post. However, there was some difficulty in preventing Aboriginal traders from going to Kickendatch, and to meet the traders who came to Mistassinny where higher prices were paid for furs. In the early history of the post, transportation to and from the post was difficult since it was hard to procure men and canoes. While the post was managed through Rupert's River District, the outfit was conveyed from Rupert House in five large canoes.

In the 1960's the HBC promoted Waswanipi as a tourist destination for fishing and canoeing and maintained a small cabin for visitors. During this time the HBC provided supplies for outfitting the tourists while Aboriginal guides provided canoes, outboard motors, and tents. By 1965 much of the Aboriginal community at Waswanipi had dispersed. Merchandise and equipment were relocated to other stores and Waswanipi was closed in June 1965.

Windsor House
(1799 - 1802), near Lac au Goéland
A Hudson's Bay Co. post at or near the outlet of the Waswanipi River.

Windsor House, also known as Cheaskquacheston (2), was established in 1799. In 1793 Bartholomew Nelson at Eastmain had sent George Jackman and George Atkinson to Cheaskquacheston Lake to gather information about the Canadian settlement there. Six years later the HBC settled on the lake when the business at Nemiscow was moved to the site. Windsor House closed in 1802. In 1820 it was reopened (as Walford's House below ?), only to close at the end of outfit 1820-1821.

Walford's House
(1820 - 1821), Lac au Goéland
A Hudson's Bay Co. post located on the southwest shore of the lake.

A competing North West Company post (same as below ?) was located adjacent to the HBC post.

Cheasquachiston Lake Post (1)
(1793 - 1821), Lac au Goéland
A North West Company post located on the western shore of the lake, south of the outlet to the Nottaway River.

Big Lake House
(1818 - 1821), Lac Evans
A Hudson's Bay Co. post. Originally located on the southwestern shore, relocated in 1819 to the northern shore.

Big Lake was established by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1817. It was located half-way between the HBC post at Nemiscow and the North West Company settlement at Waswanipi Lake. Initially John Pitt Greely had been sent to establish a post at Waswanipi in order to oppose the North West Company. However, the river connecting Big Lake to Waswanipi Lake had frozen early; Greely was forced to settle at Big Lake instead. Big Lake was often referred to as Waswanipi (1) until the HBC finally built on Waswanipi Lake in 1819. In 1818 Greely and two of his men, Hendric Swainson and Simon Corston, along with Swainson's wife, starved to death at Big Lake. The next year, the HBC established a post at Waswanipi. Big Lake's business thus declined and it was abandoned in 1821.

Fort Charles
(1668 - 1714), near Waskaganish
A British trading post composed of stone houses surrounded by a palisade. Renamed Fort Rupert (1) after 1670 when the region was granted to the newly created Hudson's Bay Company. This was the very first HBC trading post in Canada. Rebuilt on same site in 1677, then relocated in 1681 on a hilltop just downstream from the original site (it was possibly renamed Fort Rupert at this time). The French captured the post in June 1686, and renamed it Fort Saint Jacques. Recaptured by the British in 1693. The French took it again in 1695, until 1696. Controlled again by the French after September 1697, it was finally returned to the British after 1713. This was considered a "King's Post" under the French regime. A fur trade depot was also located just offshore on Charlton Island (Nunavut) (see also). It too was captured and held by the French during their tenure. In 1991 archaeologists found the sites of the two forts. The first was at the site of the modern tourist lodge (Kanio Kashee Lodge) at 7 Rue J.S.C. Watt, and the second at the present Anglican church. See also Initial European Contact from Waskaganish First Nation

In the winter of 1610 - 1611 explorer Henry Hudson and his marooned crew had a shelter house built here (exact location undetermined). They were never seen nor heard from again.

Fort Rupert (1), first known as Charles Fort, was the earliest trading post for the Hudson's Bay Company. It was established in 1668 during the first expedition by the group of adventurers who two years later would incorporate the company. Zachariah Gillam, master of the Nonsuch, and Médard Chouart, sieur des Groseilliers, established Charles Fort at the same site where Henry Hudson had wintered in 1610-1611. Between 1668 and 1674, it was the only HBC settlement. Charles Fort fell under French occupation between 1686 and 1713 and was renamed Fort St. Jacques. While the British regained control of it after the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713, it remained unoccupied until 1775.

Fort Rupert (2)
(1776 - 1959), Waskaganish
Also known as Rupert House, a Hudson's Bay Co. post. This was possibly at the second site of the earlier Fort Rupert (1). HBC records begin in 1777, end in 1941. See also The Fur Trade from Waskaganish First Nation

The North West Company built the competing Rupert River Post (2) nearby in 1803.

Fort Rupert (2) was re-established in 1776 as an outpost of Eastmain. At this time it became known as Rupert's River Post (1). Its name changed again to Rupert House in 1787. In 1811, due to poor trade results, Rupert House was closed. It reopened in 1813 as a dependancy of Moose Factory since Eastmain had been reduced from a factory to a post. In 1818 Rupert House fell under the administration of the Neoskweskau District. During this time a store was kept at Rupert House. From 1817 to 1822 the post served as the headquarters for Deputy Governor Alexander Christie Sr., who was superintendent of the Eastmain districts. In 1822 Rupert House was made headquarters of the newly-formed Rupert's River District. It remained the headquarters until 1901 when it was transferred to the James Bay District. Rupert House also provided cattle and hunted geese to other HBC posts and operated a company-owned canoe factory until some time in the twentieth century.

In 1959 the post became a Northern Store under the administration of the Northern Stores Department. It remained so until 1987, at which time the Northern Stores were sold to the Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later the North West Company).

Nemiscau Post (2)
(1794 - 1809, 1908 - 1959), near Nemaska
A Hudson's Bay Co. post (HBC records cover 1929 - 1941) on Lake Nemiscau. The Cree First Nations settlement was relocated in 1980.

The French Fort Nemiscaw (1) (1685 - 1759 ?), a "King's Post", was earlier located here.

Independent British traders were probably here in 1774.

In 1794 the Hudson's Bay Company sent James Foggitt and some men to establish posts on Nemiscow and Cheaskquachiston Lakes, along the Rupert's River. The French had had a presence on Nemiscow Lake since 1661. At Nemiskau, Foggitt built a log tent and stockades, intending it to be a temporary establishment. However, it continued to operate beyond Outfit 1794-1795. In 1799 Nemiscow was abandoned and its business moved to Cheaskquachiston Lake. Three years later the business was moved back to Nemiscow. It was abandoned once again in June 1809 due to poor trade.

Nemiscow was in operation in the early twentieth century, functioning as an outpost of Rupert House. In 1908 it became a full trading post in order to compete with Révillon Frères, which had just built a post in the area. Beginning in 1959 Nemiscow operated as a Northern Store. The store was closed in August 1970.

Eastmain Posts
(1714 - 1959), Eastmain
A Hudson's Bay Co. post at the mouth of the Eastmain River (HBC records cover 1736 - 1941). Also known as Artiwinipigon Post. Also known as Eastmain Factory between 1786 to 1813. Originally located on Fishing Creek on the north side of the Eastmain River, it was relocated in 1730 to the south side of the river about four miles southwest of the first site. A new trade house was built in 1739 at George's Point. The fort was likely rebuilt in 1764. See also About Eastmain from Town of Eastmain

A North West Company post was supposedly built nearby in the summer of 1803. This may have been known as Slude River Fort (?).

The post at Eastmain was established by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1714. In 1684 the HBC began sending a sloop each spring to the Eastmain River in order to trade for furs and gather rock and isinglass (mica). A wintering site was established at Bayly's Island. During the French occupation of the Hudson's Bay Company's posts between 1697 and 1713, sloops were sent from Albany to trade at the Eastmain River. Eastmain was built at this site around 1714 and became a factory post in 1786. Rupert's River Post (1) was established as its outpost in 1776.

In 1813 poor trade in the Eastmain District led to its dissolution. Eastmain Factory was reduced to a post as a measure of cost-cutting. The posts within the Eastmain District were placed in the Moose River District. Eastmain became an outpost of Moose Factory until 1824, when it came under the jurisdiction of the Rupert's River District. By 1837 trade was so unprofitable in the region that Eastmain was abandoned and its operations were moved to Fort George (also known as Big River). Eastmain was re-established in 1870 in the Rupert's River District for the principle purpose of raising cattle for Moose Factory and collecting country provisions for Rupert House. There was no fur trade at Eastmain at this time and it is unclear if it resumed at all. Eastmain was transferred to the James Bay District in 1901.

Eastmain continued its operations in the twentieth century under the Fur Trade Department. The post operated as a Northern Store after the formation of that department in 1959. It continued to operate as such until 1987, when the department was sold to Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later the North West Company). In 1966 the Québec Geographic Board changed the town's name to East-Main.

Neoskweskau Posts
(1793 - 1820, 1913, 1923 - 1944),
A Hudson's Bay Co. post on the Eastmain River, east of Nemaska, about 65 miles north of Lac Mistassini (HBC records cover 1929 - 1939). Originally known as Birch Point Post. Several buildings from the later 1920's era post still stood until the 1960's. This area was once part of Labrador.

The North West Company built a competing post nearby in 1815.

Neoskweskau was established in 1793 by Hudson's Bay Company servant John Clarke. It was situated on the north side of Neoskweskau Lake. Neoskweskau means "Birch Point" in Cree, and was often referred to by this name during the post's early history. Clarke had been sent by Bartholomew Nelson, chief at Eastmain, to build a post on Mistassinny Lake in order to counter competition from Canadian traders. Clarke, however, chose to settle at Birch Point instead since Mistassinny had poor resources for country provisions. Neoskweskau had an abundance of fish and deer for subsistence and was accessible from Rupert's River. Supplied by Rupert House, it served as a wintering post, with all its men returning to Eastmain with their trade in late May each year. Neoskweskau was one of the first HBC inland posts in the Eastmain region. During Outfit 1795-1796, Neoskweskau was named St. John's House by Clarke, who served as its master. In February 1796 Neoskweskau was destroyed when a store of gunpowder ignited and caused an explosion. Its stockades and dwelling house were almost levelled, and two men were injured. The HBC servants were moved temporarily to Nemiscow. Rebuilding began in June of that year. In 1814 Neoskweskau became a more prominent post with the creation of the Neoskweskau District. Neoskweskau and Mistassinny both served as winter residences for District Master James Clouston. In 1816 both Neoskweskau and Mistassinny were closed due to poor country provisions. Neoskweskau reopened the next year and was abandoned again in 1822.

Neoskweskau was re-established in the James Bay District sometime before 1923. In 1938 it was transferred to the St. Lawrence District. Nitchequon was briefly an outpost of Neoskweskau in 1939. In 1940 Neoskweskau became an outpost for Mistassinny in the St. Lawrence District. Neoskweskau was closed in 1944.

Isinglass River Post
(1684 - 1686), Old Factory, near Wemindji
A small HBC post at the mouth of the Old Factory River, established to work a mica deposit discovered on the river bank. Probably abandoned after 1686.

Factory River Posts
(1938 - 1959), Old Factory, near Wemindji
A Hudson's Bay Co. post at the mouth of the Rivière Vieux Comptoir (Old Factory River) (HBC records end 1941). One building still exists. The Cree First Nations settlement was relocated in 1959 to Paint Hills Bay on the New Factory River, about 30 miles north. The new community, originally named Nouveau-Comptoir, was recently renamed.

From 1804 to 1806 the North West Company operated a post at Factory River.

Factory River was established in 1938 as an outpost of Eastmain. It was located at the mouth of the river of the same name on Old Factory Bay on the east coast of James Bay. The site had been used by the Hudson's Bay Company since the 1680's when it was first recommended to establish an outpost there. At various times in the eighteenth century the site was used as a wintering spot for vessels.

In 1942 Factory River achieved store status. In 1959 the store was closed and its business relocated 30 miles north to Paint Hills.

Fort George
(1803 - 1959), Chisasibi
A Hudson's Bay Co. post, also known as Great River Post, or Big River Post (HBC records end 1941). Located across the river from the present community. The original post was located on Fort George Island at the mouth of the river, then later moved to the north shore. The Cree First Nations community was established on the south shore in 1980. Fort George Island is accessible to the public, the village there is occupied in the summer, and several long-abandoned buildings also remain.

A North West Company post (Shayseppy Post or Keeshay Post) was located nearby (unknown - 1806).

Fort George, originally known as Great River, was established in 1803 by Hudson's Bay Company employees and brothers, Jacob Atkinson and George Atkinson II, in an effort to counteract an existing North West Company post in the area. The Great River had previously been explored by William Robinson in 1791, sent by the HBC to explore the posibilities of establishing a whale oil business. In 1806 the NWCo. abandoned their post. At the same time, the Governor and Committee ordered the name of their post be changed from Great River to Big River to distinguish it from nearby Great Whale River. In 1813 Big River's trade business was removed to Great Whale River since the NWCo. threat had vanished. In the summer of 1816, Great Whale River moved its stores and business back to Big River. Three years later, the Governor and Committee in London ordered that Big River become an outpost of Eastmain and its business moved back to Great Whale River. However, these instructions were never carried through as contrary winds caused delays in sea transportation that summer. Between 1816 and 1821, Big River served as the headquarters for the Whale River District, operating the oil business and whale fishery that once took place in Great Whale River.

After the HBC's amalgamation with the NWCo. in 1821, Big River and the rest of the Whale River district became a part of the Moose River District. Big River became an outpost of Eastmain and operated solely as a fur trade post. It was closed at the end of the 1823-1824 season in an effort to draw more local aboriginal traders to the more fur-rich area around Eastmain. In 1830 the houses at Big River were repaired and a small supply of provisions was deposited there for the use of expected travellers from Ungava. In 1837 Big River was re-opened. Eastmain was abandoned and its business moved to Big River to draw a wider range of Rupert's House aboriginal traders into the business. It was at this time that the post was re-named Fort George. Fort George became part of the Rupert's River District until 1853, at which time it was transferred to the Eastmain District. From 1874 to 1899 Fort George acted as the headquarters of the district. It remained under the direction of the Eastmain District until 1901, when it moved to the James Bay District.

In the summer of 1921 an outpost of Fort George was established at Kannaaupscow. In 1940 the HBC, in cooperation with the Québec provincial government, created a beaver preserve on 20,000 square miles of land to the north and east of Fort George. The control of this preserve was turned over entirely to the Québec government in 1960. From 1959 to 1987 the business of the post was transferred to the Northern Stores department. In 1987 the stores were sold to the Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later called North West Company).

Kanaaupskow Post
(1921 - 1964),
A Hudson's Bay Co. post east of Fort George, on the Kanaaupscow River at the Robert Bourassa Reservoir (HBC records cover 1938 - 1941).

Kanaaupscow was established in 1921 as an outpost of Fort George (Que.). It was located 150 miles inland from Fort George on the east coast of James Bay on Lake Kanaaupscow. It was created to ensure that inlanders did not take their furs to the Hudson's Bay Company's competitor, the Révillon Frères Company, which had been competing in the area for some time. Kanaaupscow was closed in September 1964.

Nichikun Posts (2)
(1816 - 1822, 1825, 1834 - 1901, 1938 - 1943), Nitchequon
A Hudson's Bay Co. post (HBC records cover 1834 - 1941) on the north shore of Lac Nichicun. The first site was possibly on an island near the lake's outlet. This area was once claimed as part of Labrador.

A French fort (Fort Nichicun (1)) was probably located here in 1725. This was a "King's Post".

In 1816 Nitchequon was established by John Isbister and Thomas Isbister as an outpost for Neoskweskau. It was abandoned in 1822. In 1824 William Williams, governer of the Southern Department, recommended to the Governor and Committee that Nitchequon be re-established. This was due to trade lost because of Aboriginal hunters who were unwilling to travel to the coast to trade and were taking their business to the King's Posts instead. However, Williams' suggestion was rejected since two new outposts to Mistassinny, at Temiskamay and Waupatchinaniskau, had been established. Nitchquon was re-opened in 1834 as a full trading post, with the purpose of expanding the HBC's trade northward. During this time it operated under the administration of the Rupert's River District.

Nitchequon was closed sometime after 1901. In 1938 it was re-established as a store, outfitted from Neoskweskau. The store was closed in 1943.

Great Whale River House
(1813 - 1822, 1854 - 1941), Poste-de-la-Baleine
A Hudson's Bay Co. post at the mouth of the Great Whale River (Grande Rivière de la Baleine). The HBC left when the American military established an air base here in 1941. The base was transferred to Canada in 1948, now abandoned. The Inuit - Cree Indian community was renamed Kuujjuarapik / Whapmagoostui in 1986. See also About Kuujjuarapik from Town of Kuujjuarapik

The North West Company first had a post here in 1804.

Great Whale River was located at the mouth of the river by the same name on Hudson Bay. Thomas Alder first travelled to this site from Eastmain on behalf of the Hudson's Bay Company in 1802. For the next eight years, he conducted summer expeditions to determine the viability of operating a whale fishery here. Although experiments in whaling failed, large quantities of whale oil and blubber were procured here. This was particularly appealing to the HBC since war in Europe had driven the price of oil up and the price of furs down. In 1813 Big River's buildings, along with its whaling business, were transferred to Great Whale River. The post became the headquarters of the Whale River district. In 1816 the district headquarters were moved to Big River (Fort George) due to scarce country provisions and bad docking conditions along Great Whale River's rocky shoreline. Great Whale River remained a summer establishment only, continuing the fishery and oil operation. The fisheries at both Little and Great Whale Rivers failed in 1819. In the summer of 1822 the stores and most of the implements of the oil business were removed from Great Whale River. An 1836 proposal by the Southern Department to re-establish the post was abandoned until 1854, at which time Great Whale River was resurrected as headquarters of the Eastmain District, administering the district until 1857. From 1857 to 1868 Great Whale River operated a summer fishery. By 1869 the whaling business decreased and Great Whale River's fishery was abandoned. The post continued as an outpost for Little Whale River, as a landing area and to conduct some porpoise fishing.

In 1880 Little Whale River was closed and its stores moved to Great Whale River; ten years later its buildings were moved as well. Great Whale River was transferred to the James Bay District in 1901, where it remained until the creation of the Northen Stores Department in 1959. In 1987 the stores were sold to the Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later called North West Company).

Little Whale River House
(1758, 1795, 1853 - 1890), near Umiujaq
A Hudson's Bay Co. post at the mouth of the Little Whale River (Pétit Rivière de la Baleine), which was relocated several times. In 1890 the post was consolidated with the Great Whale River House after it was attacked by the local Inuit for food supplies.

The North West Company had a competing post here in 1794.

Little Whale River was located at the mouth of the river by the same name on the east coast of Hudson Bay. The Little Whale River area was first explored by the HBC in 1749, where copper mining was attempted. When this failed, the small house that was built to accommodate the men engaged in mining was kept up for the purpose of whale fishing. The first summer fishery at this site was organized in 1750 or 1753 as an outpost of Richmond Fort. In the spring of 1758 Richmond Fort moved from Richmond Gulf to Little Whale River in the hopes that the location would be more accessible to the Naskapi traders and would help expand the whale fishery. The next year, the post was dismantled due to poor fur trade; the fishery was also abandoned.

In 1787, after explorations into possible inland passage through the Whale Rivers, the Governor and Committee decided that the only way to increase trade in the area was by resurrecting the whale fishery at Little Whale River. A wintering crew was sent in preparation for spring fishing. It was not until 1791 that the fur trade was re-opened, prompted by area competition from a free trader named Christopher Foster (or Forster). A temporary post was built but soon abandoned after the post's garrison was massacred by an aboriginal group. Orders to rebuild the post and increase the fishery came in 1793. In the early 1800's the whale oil trade became an important function at Little Whale River. Oil had become an important commodity for the HBC since war in Europe drove fur prices down and oil prices up. During this time, ore had been found in the region. Though it was determined that the ore was not valuable, the servants at Little Whale River were still ordered to collect and keep journals on various rock specimens. In 1814 the post also became a wintering spot for vessels in the region.

The fishery business at Little Whale River failed in 1819 and the post was presumably closed at this time. The idea of resurrecting the post was considered in the ensuing years. It was not until after 1851, after HBC success in whale fishing on the St. Lawrence River, that Governor George Simpson re-established Little Whale River as a fishery and trade post. Since it was determined to have better resources for net fishing than Great Whale River, Little Whale River became the principle fishery in the area and headquarters of the Eastmain district from 1857 to 1873. A new dwelling house was built, as well as a building for boiling and clarifying oil. The administration of the post also shifted. The fishery and trade businesses each had their own managers but at the same time were united under one administrator overseeing both. In 1857 a separate fishing operation began at Great Whale River. Little Whale River saw its most successful year in 1860. Ten years later the fishery was discontinued. By 1880 the post was closed as well and its trade goods transferred to Great Whale River, although one servant wintered there with provisions for Inuit heading back north through the Little Whale River area. The post was reopened again in 1882 but closed by 1890. At this time, its trade goods were again moved to Great Whale River, along with its dwelling house. Little Whale River had a wintering servant to maintain the buildings until around 1893.

Fort Richmond
(Tursujuq National Park Project)
(1750 - 1758, 1921 - 1927/1942), near Umiujaq
A Hudson's Bay Co. stone fort was located on Cairn Island, along the south shore of Richmond Gulf (aka Lac Guillaume-Delisle). The site (HaGb-11) was excavated in 2007 and 2012. The HBC later re-established the post on the southern shore of the lake (site HaGa-1). The nearby Inuit community was established in 1986. See also About Umiujaq from Town of Umiujaq
See also Nunavik Archaeology Sites

Fort Richmond was established on Richmond Gulf in 1749. That year, the Governor and Committee instructed Captain William Coats to explore and chart the Eastmain coast south of Cape Digges, and to find a safe harbour to establish a post. If no suitable site was found, Coats was instructed to choose Richmond Gulf, discovered five years earlier, as the site for this new post. Fort Richmond was closed in 1758 due to poor trade in both furs and oil. All its stores and staff were removed to York Factory the next year.

The post was re-established in August 1921, this time under the name Richmond Fort. It was built on a spot close to the original post. In March the next year, Richmond Fort was temporarily closed. In 1928 records indicate that lead deposits were worked at the post. Richmond Fort was closed again in 1932 or 1942. It was reopened in July 1954 under the name Richmond Gulf, only to be closed for good in June 1956.

Port Harrison Posts
(1920 - 1958), Inukjuak
A Hudson's Bay Co. post (HBC records cover 1920 - 1939) at the mouth of the Innuksuak River (site HBC), near Cape Dufferin. Site excavated in 2004. The HBC also operated a fox farm here from 1928 - 1931. See also About Inukjuak from Town of Inukjuak

The French fur company Révillon Frères also established a store here (1910's ?), closed in 1936. The Baffin Trading Company also operated a post nearby in 1939 at Akiligavivinit (site IcGm-43), about one kilometre west of Inukjuak. Site excavated in 2004.

The RCMP established a post here in 1935.

Port Harrison was established in 1920. It was located on Québec's east shore of Hudson Bay at Cape Dufferin on the Inuksuak River. Eight years later, an experimental white fox farm was established at Port Harrison, but did not operate for long due to the scarcity of foxes in the area. In 1936 the HBC took over the buildings of the nearby Révillon Frères post as part of a wider acquisition of the Révillon Frères' interests.

In 1978 the name of the Port Harrison community was officially changed to Inukjuak as part of a wider effort by the Government of Québec to give James and Hudson Bay communities names of French or Aboriginal origin. In 1987 the HBC's Northern Stores, including the store at Inukjuak, were sold to the Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later called North West Company).

Povungnituk Bay Post
(1921 - 1952), Puvirnituq
A Hudson's Bay Co. post (HBC records begin in 1923) at the mouth of the Povungnituk River. See also About Puvirnituq from Town of Puvirnituq

Povungnetuk, first known as Povungnetuk Bay, was established in 1921 as an outpost of Port Harrison. The name "Povungnetuk" originates from the Inuit word for something decaying and having an offensive odour, likely referring to whale carcasses. It was located on the Ungava Peninsula along the Povungnetuk River on the east coast of Hudson Bay. In August 1927 the post was moved twenty yards along the river, closer to the mouth of the river and the nearby Révillon Frères post. Povungnetuk Bay became known as Povungnetuk and gained full post status. In 1936 the HBC acquired the Révillon Frères property at Povungnetuk as part of its wider acquisition of Révillon Frères business. In 1952 Povungnetuk was moved again, twenty miles north. The HBC business at Povungnetuk became a Northern Store in 1959 with the formation of the Northern Stores Department.

In August 1986 the Povungnetuk store and warehouse burned down, apparently due to arson. The next year the HBC's Northern Stores, including Povungnetuk, were sold to the Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later called North West Company).

Cape Smith Post
(1922 - 1926), Smith Island, near Akulivik
A Hudson's Bay Co. post. Originally located at Cape Smith on Mosquito Bay, the post was moved offshore to Smith Island (aka Qikirtajuaq) in 1926. The present community on Cape Smith was established in 1976. Smith Island itself is actually located within the current boundary of Nunavut Territory. See also About Akulivik from Town of Akulivik
(See also Smith Island Post on NUNAVUT page)

Cape Wolstenholme Post
(1909 - 1947), Ivujivik
A Hudson's Bay Co. post at the site of the present community. Ruins still remain on site.

The first recorded encounter between Europeans and the Inuit of Nunavik took place in 1610 on nearby Digges Islands during Henry Hudson's last and fatal expedition to the Arctic in search of a polar route leading to Asia. In 1697 Capt. Pierre LeMoyne D'Iberville and his crew, in search of commercial opportunities in Hudson Bay, met the Inuit at Cape Wolstenholme. See also About Ivujivik from Town of Ivujivik

Ralph Parsons of the Hudson's Bay Company began to build Wolstenholme in August 1909. The post was located at Cape Wolstenholme on the northwest point of Ungava Peninsula at latitude 62º32'N, longitude 77º13'W. It was the first Arctic post to be established specifically for trading white foxes. The post was named for Sir John Wolstenholme, an outfitter of Henry Hudson who named Cape Wolstenholme for him in 1610. Recommendations to establish a post at a point on the Straits to ward off competition was expressed in the annual reports in 1908. Parsons arrived at the post by the ship "Pelican" en route to Churchill. Wolstenholme was also intended to counter competition from Révillon Frères in other parts of Hudson Strait. In August 1911 the ship "Beothic" arrived with orders for the post to be removed to Stuparts Bay but the "Pelican" was unable to convey the necessary supplies so the idea was dropped. A new post at Cape Smith was supposed to be established in 1912. However, the post was not established and therefore Wolstenholme had to take the whole staff intended for the new post. The untimely deaths of Clerks Christopher C. T. Shepherd and William R. Ford in August 1913 left the post without a competent manager. Henry T. Ford, assisted by A.M. Chalmers, was in charge for outfit 1913. Between 1913 and 1919 Réveillon Frères at Stuparts Bay (Wakeham Bay) were the nearest competitors. In August 1920 Lamson-Hubbard Co. arrived and established a post 500 yards outside the boundary of HBC land. The post was closed between June and November 1947.

Sugluk Inlet Posts
(1925 - 1949, 1930 - 1951), near Salluit
In 1925 an independent trader opened a trading post on the site of the present community. The Hudson's Bay Company then established its own post on the far shore of Sugluk Inlet (Sugluk East Post). In 1930 the HBC built a combined store and dwelling (Sugluk West Post) at the present-day community, which was established in 1959. See also About Salluit from Town of Salluit

Sugluk East was established in September 1925 in order to protect the HBC's trade at Wolstenholme and Stupart's Bay from competitor H.H. Hall who operated a nearby post. Sugluk East was located on the east side of Sugluk Bay on the northern shore of the Ungava Peninsula. It acted as an outpost for Wolstenholme until 1930 when it was elevated to full post status. In July 1932 Sugluk East was closed due to insufficient trade.

Sugluk West was established in September 1929 in order to attempt to drive away competing business from H.H. Hall, who operated a nearby post. It was located on the west side of Sugluk Bay, 50 miles east of Wolstenholme on the northern coast of the Ungava Peninsula. In August 1930 a combined store and dwelling house was erected at Sugluk West. In 1940 Sugluk West became known simply as Sugluk since nearby Sugluk East had closed in 1932. From 1940 to 1965 Sugluk operated an outpost at Wakeham Bay, formerly known as Stupart's Bay.

In 1986 the name of the Sugluk West community was officially changed to the Inuit name Salluit. The Northern Store in Salluit was in operation until 1987, when the HBC sold its Northern Stores to the Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later called North West Company).

Deception Bay Post
(1926 - 1932), Déception
A Hudson's Bay Co. post east of Salluit.

Stupart Bay Post
(1914 - 1940), near Kangiqsujuaq
A Hudson's Bay Co. post. In 1928 the HBC established an experimental fox farm which it operated for two years. In 1961 the provincial government renamed the nearby community from Wakeham Bay to Sainte-Anne-de-Maricourt, until with the establishment of a municipality government it officially readopted its Inuktitut name. See also About Kangiqsujuaq from Town of Kangiqsujuaq

The French fur company Révillon Frères established a store at Wakeham Bay in 1910, closed in 1936.

In 1884 members of the Canadian Hudson's Bay Expedition, aboard the steamship Neptune, arrived in the area anxious to establish a commercial route to Europe through the Hudson Strait. An ice observation and meteorological station were built at Stupart Bay. Inuit began to trade frequently with observers posted at the station: seal-skin mitts and boots for tobacco and gun powder.

Stupart's Bay was established in 1914 on Wakeham Bay on the northern coast of the Ungava Peninsula. The post was originally known as Wakeham Bay (1) and was named after William Wakeham, commander of marine and fisheries for the 1897 Hudson Strait Expedition. In 1915 the name was changed to Stupart's Bay in honour of R.F. Stupart, director of meteorological services in Toronto. In 1927 the HBC established an experimental fox farm at Stupart's Bay which closed within the next two years due to a scarcity of wild foxes in the area. In July 1940 Stupart's Bay post was closed. However, the HBC continued to operate an outpost of Sugluk West at the site under the name Wakeham Bay (2). In 1965 Wakeham Bay (2) was elevated to store status and operated as a Northern Store. That same year, the Government of Québec changed the community's name to Maricourt, although the HBC continued to use the name Wakeham Bay for its store until 1978. In 1985, the community's name was again changed to Kangiqsujuaq by the Geographic Names Board. The Northern Store in Kangiqsujuaq was in operation until 1987, when the HBC sold its Northern Stores to the Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later called North West Company).

Diana Bay Posts
(1927 - 1949), Iggiajaaq, near Quaqtac
An independent trader built the first trading post here in 1927, a few kilometres southwest of Quaqtaq. It operated for 11 years. At that time the site of present-day Quaqtaq was one of the Tuvaaluk Inuit's winter campsites as it was near the limit of land-fast ice. In 1931 the French fur trading company Révillon Frères opened a store at Iggiajaaq, which was bought out by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1936 (HBC records begin 1937). The HBC post closed in 1941. A Baffin Trading Company post was established in 1939 in the same area, but closed 10 years later at which time the Inuit who normally wintered at Iggiajaaq moved to Quaqtaq. See also About Quaqtac from Town of Quaqtac

In 1936 the HBC took over the operations of the Révillon Frères post at Diana Bay, located on Hudson Strait on the northern coast of Québec. Diana Bay operated only briefly as an HBC post, ceasing operations by 1940. In 1949 the HBC moved the buildings at Diana Bay, along with the recently acquired buildings of the Baffin Trading Co., to Payne Bay.

Payne Bay Post
(1925 - 1960), Kangirsuk
The French fur company Révillon Frères built a store in 1921 and, four years later, the Hudson's Bay Company followed (HBC records begin in 1929). Both trading posts were managed at times by Inuit. In 1981 the community, then known as Bellin, was incorporated as a municipality and renamed. See also About Kangirsuk from Town of Kangirsuk

Payne Bay was established in 1925. It was located 12 miles from the mouth of Payne Bay on the west coast of Ungava Bay. The Révillon Frères trading company operated a post at this site from 1921 until 1935 when the HBC purchased the Révillon Frères post buildings. For the outfit year 1938-1939, Payne Bay operated the U-Y Outpost. In 1965 the Payne Bay community name was officially changed to Bellin. Payne Bay was in operation until 1987, when the HBC sold its Northern Stores to the Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later called North West Company).

U-Y Outpost
(1938 - 1939), near Kangirsuk
A Hudson's Bay Co. post opposite the Payne Bay Post on the south shore.

U-Y Outpost was established in 1938 as a winter outpost for Payne Bay. It was located on the south shore of the Payne River, opposite Payne Bay post. Its purpose was to compete with independent trader Jean Berthe's post and divert business to Payne Bay. U-Y Outpost appears to have been in operation for only one outfit year.

Leaf River Post
(1907 - 1939), Tasiujaq
A Hudson's Bay Co. post (HBC records begin in 1920) on the south shore of the inlet, just above the northern tree limit. Located east of the present community, which was established in 1971. See also About Tasiujaq from Town of Tasiujaq

The French fur company Révillon Frères also had a store here from 1905 - 1935.

Leaf River was established by the Hudson's Bay Company on Leaf Bay at the mouth of the Leaf River, Ungava Bay, in October 1906. As an outpost of Fort Chimo, Leaf River was intended to interfere with the trading activities of the French company, Révillon Frères. The possibility of a whale and salmon fishing station at Leaf River had been recognized as early as 1886. Leaf River was also expected to serve as a headquarters for collecting oil from Inuit hunters since Fort Chimo was too far away for them to travel. Leaf River was operated seasonally. In September 1910 Shennungunuck, Sr. was appointed Trader. Only a small tent existed at the post, however there were plans to move an unoccupied house from Fort Chimo to Leaf River in 1916. The post was reopened in 1916, without buildings, and Neche and Nowya Kedluck were outfitted from Fort Chimo to conduct trade at Leaf River. In 1919 Leaf River was operated as an independent post with buildings, but became an outpost of Fort Chimo again in 1920. By 1923 it regained its independence and remained so until it was closed in 1940.

False River Post
(1833 - 1900 ?), near Kuujjuaq
A Hudson's Bay Company post located at the mouth of the Koksoak River.

Fort Chimo
(1830 - 1842, 1866 - 1958), Kuujjuaq
A Hudson's Bay Co. post, also known as Fort Good Hope (HBC records cover 1830 - 1939), on the east shore of the Koksoak River, about 5 km downstream from the present-day community. See also About Kuujjuaq from Town of Kuujjuaq

Nicol Finlayson and Erland Erlandson established Fort Chimo for the HBC on the east bank of the Koksoak River in 1830, as instructed by Governor George Simpson. Simpson hoped that by establishing a post in Ungava Bay, trade would open up with the Innu inhabiting the coasts of Hudson Strait, Ungava Bay, and Labrador. The newly established post was called Fort Good Hope until 1831 and then Fort Chimo until 1980. Finlayson described Fort Chimo as situated at Lat. 58 9'N Long. 68 15'W. Once Fort Chimo was occupied the main objective became the creation and supply of subsidiary posts in the central interior of the Québec-Labrador peninsula that would link the new trading region with the expanding HBC influence along the northern shore of the Gulf of the St. Lawrence. Soon after the post was established, Finlayson instructed Erlandson to construct an outpost from Fort Chimo up the Wausquash River. The outpost was unsuccessful and Erlandson abandoned it between June 1833 and 1834. By 1833 Fort Chimo consisted of seven buildings arranged in a defensive square. Hunters traded mainly caribou skins, white fox and marten furs at the post. Under John McLean's direction the traders explored canoe routes up the Kaniapiskau-Swampy Bay River system, the Whale River drainage, and the George River drainage in an attempt to establish the overland route. However, during the winter of 1840-1841 the fisheries failed and most of the men were scattered in open camps throughout the country. As a result of the decline in trade McLean left Fort Chimo for Esquimaux Bay in the summer of 1841. Fort Chimo was abandoned and closed in September 1843 as a result of transportation difficulties, unprofitable trade, and a scarcity of caribou and fish. In 1843 the last remaining employees at Fort Chimo left Ungava Bay.

Fort Chimo was reestablished in 1866 resulting in a period of moderate prosperity. This success was due in part to the fact that the post was supplied yearly by the steamer "Labrador" which carried away whale oil, salted salmon, and furs thereby eliminating previous supply problems. By the mid-twentieth century Fort Chimo consisted of about a dozen buildings, including two dwelling houses, two provision stores, an oil shed, a salt shed, a carpenter shop, a cooper shop, and a blacksmith shop. Small boats, a small sloop and a steam launch, used in connection with the salmon fishery were also at the post. The salmon fishery was carried on at a number of places along the river below the post as well as at the mouths of the Whale and George's Rivers during the month of August. Fort Chimo was supplied by the steamer "Eric". A small refrigerator steamer was employed for the salmon trade. By 1930 the salmon were split and salted instead of taken to London for sale. During this time foxes were the most abundant fur-bearing animal in the area. Fort Chimo was closed for a few months for reconstruction after being destroyed by fire in 1957. In 1960 the post was moved to the west side of the Koksoak River. Fort Chimo's name changed to Kuujjuaq in February 1980. The store continued in operation until 1987 when the Northern Stores Department was sold to Hudson's Bay Northern Stores (later the North West Company).

Base Crystal One
(1941 - 1945), Kuujjuaq
An American military weather station was established here at Fort Chimo in October 1941. An emergency landing field for the North Atlantic Air Ferry Route was constructed in 1942. The base was transferred to Canada in 1946. Located on the west shore of the Koksoak River. The present community was established in 1948, renamed in 1980.

Fort Mackenzie
(1916 - 1948), Fort Mackenzie
A Hudson's Bay Co. post (HBC records cover 1930 - 1939) on the Swampy Bay River, about seven miles above the Caniapiscau River, south of Fort Chimo (Kuujjuaq), at the end of Lac Le Moyne (aka Lake Canichico).

Fort McKenzie was established in August 1916 as an outpost for Fort Chimo. It was named after Sabastien McKenzie, the first post manager. It was located on the north shore of Lake Kanachaugkaugamau at the entrance to the Swampy Bay River in northern Québec. At some point before 1930, Fort McKenzie became a full fur trade post. It closed in 1948 due to transportation problems to the area.

South River House
(1832 - 1833, 1835 - 1842, 1857 ? - 1880), near Fort Mackenzie
A Hudson's Bay Co. post on the Caniapiscau River, near Fort Mackenzie.

South River House was located near the confluence of the Kaniapiskau and Swampy Bay rivers about 100 miles up South River above Fort Chimo in Labrador. In June 1832 Erland Erlandson left Fort Chimo with instructions from Nicol Finlayson to establish an inland post up the Wasquash River. However, Erlandson's guide refused to take him beyond Clouston's Falls on South River. Therefore Erlandson established a post at South River. Erlandson erected a store, men's house, and a house for himself. John Jay, a carpenter, and James Slatter, a labourer, wintered at the post with Erlandson between 1832 and 1833. Erlandson noted that it was difficult to entice the Innu to hunt for furs rather than deer for meat and hide. Similarly, because the Innu were nomadic it was hard to keep them attached to the post. South River House was abandoned after one trading season due to the small amount of trade. This experience convinced Finlayson and Erlandson that there would be no advantage in establishing a post on the Fort Chimo side of the height of land since the Aboriginal people of the region only travelled inland to procure birchrind for their canoes.

In 1834 Erlandson returned to South River House on his overland trip between Ungava Bay and Esquimaux Bay. The post was re-established soon after and was abandoned at the same time as Fort Trial in 1842. It was reopened by 1857 because it is included in a list of posts for that year as well as 1869 and 1872. South River House was closed again around 1880.

Kaniapiskau Post
(1834 - 1844), near Brisay
A Hudson's Bay Co. post on the Caniapiscau River, south of Fort Mackenzie. This area was once part of Labrador.

The North West Company had a trade post here earlier in 1810 (Cannyapiscaw Post).

Kaniapiskau was an outpost of Fort Chimo located on the Caniapiscau River, 20 days paddle from Fort Chimo. The post was established in 1834 to draw the Aboriginal people into the interior and to prevent them from trading with rival traders on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It was closed and abandoned in 1844.

NOTE: Kaniapiskau is often erroneously confused with Kanaaupscow, an outpost of Fort George.

Erlandson's Post (1)
(1835 - 1836), near Kawawachikamach
A Hudson's Bay Co. post on a branch of the Caniapiscau River near the Labrador border. This area was once part of Labrador.

Whale River Post
(1886 - 1939), near Kuujjuaq
A Hudson's Bay Co. post (HBC records begin 1921) at the mouth of the Whale River (Rivière à la Baleine), east of town.

Whale River was located 30 miles east of Fort Chimo on the Whale River. The post was established primarily as an outpost of Fort Chimo for the purposes of catching and curing salmon. Whale hunting was also conducted; however, the whale population was greatly diminished in the late 1890's. The post was closed in 1939.

Mainewan Post
(1844 - unknown), near Chakonipau
A small Hudson's Bay Co. post at the north end of Lake Minowean, along the Rivière à la Baleine (Whale River), a subpost of Fort Nascopie, Labrador. This area was once part of Labrador.

George River Post
(1838 - 1842, 1876 - 1915, 1923 - 1935/1952), Kangiqsualujjuaq
A Hudson's Bay Co. post (HBC records begin in 1889) on the George River, just south of the present community (established in 1962). The town was renamed in 1980. See also About Kangiqsualujjuaq from Town of Kangiqsualujjuaq

George's River was established near the mouth of the George River by John McLean in 1838. The post was known as Fort Siveright until 1843 and thereafter as George's River Post. The post was used principally for salmon and seal fishing and if possible, to prevent other traders from interfering in Hudson's Bay Company trade. The post was abandoned in 1842 because Fort Chimo was thought to have declined and George's River was no longer required to assist transport. In June 1842 Chief Trader John McLean left for Esquimaux Bay and left Clerk George Anderson in charge. Anderson turned his attention to bringing what few returns there were at George's River over to Fort Chimo.

The post was re-established in September 1876 principally to prevent the Aboriginal people from trading with the Moravians. The remains of the old buildings were used in constructing two new houses. George's River was closed in the summer of 1878. It reopenend in 1883. Between 1884 and 1915 George's River was used mainly as a salmon and seal fishery. The trade at George's River was transferred to Port Burwell, Labrador in 1917 and the post was reduced to a salmon fishing outpost of Fort Chimo. George's River closed in June 1952.

Fort Trial
(1839 - 1842), Indian House Lake
A Hudson's Bay Co. post on the George River, at the northeast end of the lake. This area was once part of Labrador.

In June 1839 John McLean, accompanied by several servants, left Fort Chimo to bring supplies to Fort Nascopie, Labrador. As a result of low river levels McLean was forced to leave most of his men on the George River in July. These men erected a temporary post on the river which later became known as Fort Trial. McLean continued on to Fort Nascopie in a small canoe but was unable to navigate the portage route from Grand River and did not reach his destination. As a result, Fort Nascopie was left without supplies for the oncoming season. Erland Erlandson left a couple of men at Fort Nascopie and wintered at Fort Trial while McLean returned to winter at Fort Chimo. In 1840 Mr. Richards was instructed to close Fort Trial and to bring the remaining property and returns from the post to Fort Chimo. By 1842 the post was reoccupied and William Kennedy was in charge. In April 1842 Kennedy was relieved, perhaps by Henderson, and later went to Fort Nascopie. After 1842 Fort Trial was used as a temporary establishment and the buildings were used for storage.

Erlandson's Post (2)
(1839 - 1840), Indian House Lake
A Hudson's Bay Co. post on the George River, at the southern end of the lake. This area was once part of Labrador.

NOTE: Many of the Hudson's Bay Company post descriptions are courtesy of the HBC Archives.

Southern Québec - page 1 | Québec City - page 2 | Eastern Québec - page 3
Southwestern Québec - page 4

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