Barr, Robert to Pelham-Clinton, 5th Duke of Newcastle Henry Pelham Fiennes 26 July 1859, CO 60:6, no. 7550, 353.

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Correspondence (private letter)
Barr, Robert to Pelham-Clinton, Henry Pelham Fiennes 26 July 1859, CO 60:6, no. 7550, 353.

Abstract

Correspondence (private letter). Minutes (1), Enclosures (untranscribed) (1), Other documents (1).

This document contains mentions of Indigenous Peoples. The authors of these documents often perpetuate a negative perspective of Indigenous Peoples and it is important to look critically at these mentions. They sometimes use terminology that is now considered hurtful and offensive. To learn more about modern terminology pertaining to Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous ways of knowing, and decolonization, please refer to the Glossary of terms.

Barr applies for an Appointment in the Colony in British Columbia, referencing his five-year residence on Vancouver Island. Barr relates his various travels, an apparent acquaintance with the particular manner and customs of various Indigenous groups, and personal Testimony to the respectability of [his] connections.

Barr to Newcastle

Leeds, 21, Cheapside, Briggate

July 26th 1859

My Lord,

Her Majesty's Government having deemed it desirable to establish a Colony in British Columbia, and having returned from Vancouver's Island after a residence of nearly Five Years during which period I held several important public offices (as you will perceive by the enclosed copy of my Testimonials), I beg most respectfully to solicit an appointment in the said Colony in any capacity that your Lordship may consider my qualifications and experience entitled thereto.

I may state that I have travelled some four hundred miles north of Vancouver's Island, including Fraser's River, Fort Hope and Thompson's River, New Caledonia, and have consequently become acquainted with the particular manner and customs of the various Indian Tribes, which I trust will be an additional recommendation.

I have the honor to be acquainted with the Rt. Hon. M.T. Baines, Edward Baines Esqre M.P. and G.S. Beecroft Esqre M.P. all of whom, I am sure, will be glad to bear

bear Testimony to the respectability of my connections should your Lordship think fit to refer to them.

I shall be happy to do myself the honor of waiting upon your Lordship at any time convenient to your Lordship, and should your Lordship deem my application worthy of an Appointment, I shall on the shortest notice be prepared to embark for the said Colony.

Permit me to add that should I be honored with an appointment nothing shall be wanting on my part strictly to carry out the wishes and intentions of Her Majesty's Government requisite to the formation and extension of such an important Colony.

Waiting your Lordship's reply,

I have the honor to be, My Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient Humble Servant
Robert Barr

To His Grace the Duke of Newcastle
Secretary of State for the Colonies