ALEXANDER.—The 250th Anniversary of the founding of the Hudson's Bay Company was celebrated at Fort Alexander Post on the 24th May last. An open invitation was extended to every Indian on the reserve and so eagerly was the unique event looked forward to that the Celebrations were attended by not only the Indians and their families, but also by the miners, prospectors and settlers within a radius of twenty-five miles. It is estimated that not less than one thousand people on this occasion were the guests of the Honorable Company, and it is much to the credit of the manager, his esteemed wife and loyal assistants that they were so successful in catering for. and at the same time giving entire satisfaction to such a huge assembly.
The Celebrations were timed to commence at 2.00 p.m. on the 24th. At noon a huge crowd had gathered at the Post. The items for the afternoon consisted of canoe races, boot, sack and children’s races, also tug-of-war, but the main item of the Celebrations was the feast, which commenced at about 5.00 p.m. Ample justice was done to the good things provided by the manager and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Murray. After the supper the prizes were presented to the successful winners in the sports, as also were the medals generously provided by the Governor and board. Needless to say, the recipients of these medals were gratified, and the souvenirs will no doubt be treasured both by the recipients and in the future years by following generations as a lasting tribute to the good feelings which have always existed between the Honorable Company and the original natives of this great country. Dancing was then the next item on the programme. At 10.00 p.m. a fireworks display took place which was a revelation to the natives. This can be no surprise, as this is probably the first occasion that such a display has ever been given north of the City of Winnipeg.
In addition to looking after the needs and pleasures of the vast assembly, Mr. and Mrs Murray entertained in their home at the birthday dinner a large party, amongst whom were the Rev. and Mrs. C. H. Fryer, Rev. Fathers Bousquet and Geelen, Mrs. C. F. Forrest, Mr. J. F. Forrest and others.
Gracing the centre of the table was a huge four-storey iced cake, bearing emblems of the Company and congratulations on its 250th Birthday. This cake was the gift of the sisters of the mission, and undoubtedly was something they can be proud of. as it is asserted that no such cake and so beautifully decorated has ever been seen in the District.
Vetted?
No