Alexander McKenzie (fur trader, c.1767–1830)
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| Alexander McKenzie | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1767 Stornoway, Scotland |
| Died | 1830-07-23 Montreal, Lower Canada |
| Occupation | Fur trader; militia officer |
| Partner | |
Alexander McKenzie (c. 1767 – 23 July 1830 (aged 63)) was a Scottish fur trader and partner in the North West Company who was arrested at Fort William on 12 August 1816 during Lord Selkirk's seizure of the post. He is distinct from his uncle, the explorer Sir Alexander Mackenzie.[1]
Early life
- Born about 1767, likely in Stornoway, Scotland.
- A nephew of the explorer Sir Alexander Mackenzie.
Fur-trade career
- Was one of the first six wintering partners in the New North West Company, also called the XY Company, formed in November 1798.
- In charge of the Athabasca department from 1804 to 1808.
- Known by the nicknames "the Emperor" and "the Baron" for his high-handed manner.
- Commanded the North West Company post at Pic in 1809.
- Became the company's agent at Fort William in 1811.
Red River and Fort William
- Sent in 1815 as agent of the North West Company to the Red River settlement to hasten its destruction.
- Persuaded Miles Macdonell to surrender and helped escort him to Fort William.
- Arrested by Lord Selkirk at Fort William on 12 August 1816, along with other North West Company partners.
- Tried at York (Toronto) in October 1818 and acquitted.
Family
- Married Isabella Latour, probably according to the custom of the country; the couple had a son and a daughter.
Death
- Died 23 July 1830 in Montreal, Lower Canada.