Colonial Despatches

British Columbia Co. Limited was formed in London around 1863 when its directors sent three or four practical men to report to the company on the prospects of mining in the colonies of British Columbia and Vancouver Island. This company, however, faced challenges with pre-existing laws regarding the holding of mining property. Many financiers were unwilling to invest in any mining company unless concessions were given to them by the colonies of British Columbia and Vancouver Island.1

• 1. Mackean to Elliot, 11 February 1864, 1205, CO 60/20, p.97.