David Thompson left a significant mark on the Canadian landscape – physically and intellectually. His surveys and maps delineated boundaries we live with today. His travels and writings offer an insight into the fur trade, Aboriginal culture and the ecosystems of the West. His vision of a nation that included the vast western territories anticipated modern Canada. His marriage of nearly 60 years to Charlotte Small symbolized the vital role women played as partners in the fur trade. Thompson’s legacy remains an inspiration and a challenge as we commemorate his bicentennial.

While studying under Philip Turnor, Thompson lost the sight in his right eye. He survived numerous accidents, a near fatal case of malaria, debilitating cholera and rheumatism in his leg. Three of their children predeceased David and Charlotte. But deeply held religious beliefs helped Thompson overcome these personal tragedies.

Thompson’s writings remained in the family after his death. The journals were sold by his son Joshua to the government. The Narrative went to a private citizen and was published in 1916. Thompson received belated recognition from the Canadian Government in the form of a plaque erected in 1930 and a commemorative stamp issued in 1957 on the centenary of his death.

Thompson’s Narrative was first published by the Champlain Society in 1916 and republished in 1962.

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Thompson’s Narrative of his Explorations in Western Canada, 1784-1812
Edited by J. B. Tyrrell
Toronto: Champlain Society, 1916
971 CHA 12
Archives of Ontario

David Thompson’s Family: compiled from family records

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Exterior cover of Field Book #4a, 1817-1822
David Thompson’s Treaty of Ghent Field Books
Reference Code: F 443-2
Archives of Ontario

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A selection of items from the David Thompson fonds
Carrie McGillivray fonds and Cartographic Records Collection
Archives of Ontario