1913 – 1919 Sliammon’s Struggle for a Place of Learning PART 2

Under the Shadow of Ottawa

Mr. JD McLean wrote to Peter Bryce, Esq the Indian Agent for New Westminster, on March 20, 1913. From Ottawa, Ontario, he says Sir,—

I have to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 10th instant in reference to the question of the allowance to the Day School. In reply, I beg to say that the arrangement made by the teacher, as that was a subsequent one to the election, was over the amount authorized, namely $30 per month; also, per annum would be only double the sum paid by the Department, whereas these payments are to be attended to, which also made sense.

It is not considered necessary to make the windows now or repair the flooring so extensively. If the teacher is willing to accept $30 per month, you may engage him on those terms; otherwise, it would be better to find some reliable Indian who would do it.

Your obedient servant, and signed J.D. McLean Assistant Deputy and Secretary

On March 31, 1913, Mr. Peter Byrne wrote a letter to the offices at New Westminster, BC.

Sir,— I beg to inform you that Mr. M.L.E. Biggar is willing to accept $50.00 per annum for taking care of the Sliammon Indian Day School:

your obedient servant, Signature of Peter Byrne, The Secretary, Department of Indian Affairs, Ottawa.

From the Sliammon Indian Day School on October 31, 1913, letter addressed to Mr. Peter Byrne, Indian Agent, New Westminster, BC.

Dear Sir, I beg to hand you, without previous notice, my resignation as teacher of the Sliammon Indian Day School, to take effect immediately after the above date. I am very sorry to take this step so abruptly. Circumstances are such that I have no other choice. Thanking you most sincerely for your kindness and attention.

I am yours very truly, M. L. Edgar Biggar.

Teacher applications and requests to be the teacher at the Sliammon Day School kept Mr. Byrne, Esq, the Indian Agent for New Westminster, busy. On November 8, 1913, he received another letter.

Dear Sir,

I beg to apply for the position of teacher at the Sechelt school. I have had considerable experience as a teacher, having taught for five years in Ireland. I came to Canada in 1907 and was employed for two years by the Northern Banking Co. Ltd., Ireland. On coming to Canada, I was employed by the BCBC. Electric Railway Co., Vancouver, for two years, and afterwards as cashier at the Exhibition in New Westminster.

I enclose copies of references from the Northern Banking Co. Ltd., Ireland, and from Mr. Philip O’Doherty, M.P., House of Commons, London.

Yours respectfully, Mr. Basil Nicholson.

Attached was a letter that read,

Father O’Boyle O.M.I. Vancouver has very kindly recommended me to you. I enclose copies of references from Thos. Henry on Committee Northern Banking Co. Ltd. Ireland, Philip O’Doherty M.P. House of Commons London

– C.A. Slaney Auditor B.C.E.R. Vancouver.

I am married and have one child (a boy, 4 years old), and will thank you for the appointment and signed Yours respectfully, Basil Nicholson.

Along with Mr. Basil Nicholson’s letter was a Certificate of Service from the British Columbia Electric Railway Company dated May 10, 1913, at the Vancouver, BC, Branch. The Certificate of Service from the British Columbia Electric Railway Company, numbered 450833 and issued by the Vancouver, B.C. branch on May 10, 1913, documents the employment of Russell McNeilson, who entered service at age 21 and worked as a clerk in Vancouver from July 8, 1912 to May 10, 1913. The record notes that he resigned from his position and that his services were very satisfactory, a remark signed by A.S. Loney, Auditor, with McNeilson’s own signature appearing below
Mr. Basil Nicholson also included a Copy with the information as House of Commons, London, 24/3/17

I have great pleasure in certifying that I have known Mr. Basil Nicholson for over seven years and have always found him a gentleman of excellent character and of high culture and ability. He has been an official in the Northern Banking Co. Ireland, and for several years has held a responsible position in the Carndonagh Branch of that Company, Co. Donegal, where he discharged his duties most satisfactorily to all concerned, displaying the greatest courtesy and most commendable tact to the public. (Sgd) Philip O’Doherty, M.P.
Along with his other recommendations to becoming the teacher at the Sliammon Indian Day School, he also attached a (Copy) from Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, Ireland, dated March 26, 1912.

The bearer, Mr. Russell Nicholson, has been known to me for a number of years and belongs to a most respectable family. He has been employed by The Northern Banking Coy. Ltd., who have their Head Office in the City of Belfast, and should be found a competent young man. He is desirous of improving his position and has consequently decided to emigrate to Canada, where one of his brothers has already gone. I don’t have to say that I sincerely wish him the greatest possible success in the New Country to which so many of our young men are at present turning their attention. (sgd) Thomas Henry Shareholder Northern Banking Coy. Ltd.

The Indian Agent’s Office in New Westminster, BC, on November 19, 1913, Indian Agent Mr. Byrne, reported to the Secretary of the Department of Indian Affairs in Ottawa that he was enclosing the resignation of Mr. W.L. Biggar, teacher of the Sliammon Indian Day School, to take effect on October 31, along with the school’s return for October 1913. He stated that he had not seen Mr. Biggar and knew nothing of his resignation until it arrived with the enclosed school returns. He closed the correspondence as “Your obedient servant,” with the official Schools Branch stamped November 26, 1913.

From the Archbishop’s residence in Shaughnessy Heights, Vancouver, BC, on November 21, 1913, a letter was penned to Mr. McLean, Assistant Deputy Minister of the Department of Indian Affairs in Ottawa.

My Dear Mr. McLean, it starts, I hereby recommend the appointment of Mr. Basil Nicholson as Principal of the Indian school at Sliammon, BC, in succession to Mr Biggar, who has just resigned, signed + T Casey ArB of Vancouver.

From Ottawa on November 27, 1913, a letter was written with the utmost importance, Sir,- it began.

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 19th instant enclosing the resignation from October 31, last, of Mr. W. L. Biggar, teacher of the Sliammon Day School, and also his return of attendance for the month of October.

In reply, I beg to inform you that this resignation is accepted. The returns received show that Mr. Biggar taught this school twenty-two days in the September quarter and twenty-three days during the month of October; a total of forty-five days during the current school year, for which he is entitled to be paid 45/200 of his yearly salary of $600.00, or $135.00. The Department, having no knowledge of his intention to resign before the end of the school year, viz., June 30 next, paid him for the September quarter $150.00, one-fourth of his yearly salary. He is, therefore, overpaid $15.00 for the forty-five days he taught during the September quarter and the month of October.

Mr. Biggar was also the janitor of this school, for which service he was to receive $5.00 per month. He has been paid to August 1, last, and for the three months of August, September and October he earned $15.00. This amount for janitor’s services will balance the $15 overpayment for his services as a teacher. Mr. Biggar has therefore been paid in full to October 31 last, as teacher and janitor at this school and signed

Peter Bryce, Esq—Indian Agent, New Westminster, BC.

December 3, 1913, on Indian Agent’s Office stationery, a letter was forwarded to the Assistant Deputy and Secretary, Department of Indian Affairs, in Ottawa.

I beg to enclose herewith application with testimonials received from Mr. Basil Nicholson for the position of teacher at Sliammon Indian Day School, in place of Mr. Biggar, lately resigned. I may say that Mr. Nicholson, with his wife and child, went to teach at Sliammon School on November 8 last, and I believe he is giving entire satisfaction to the Indians. He informed me that his Grace, the Right Reverend Archbishop Casey of Vancouver, BC, was to have written the Department recommending his appointment to the position.

Owing to the absence of his Grace from Vancouver, the letter referred to was not forwarded up to the present. Still, I understand from a telephone message received that it has been sent by today’s mail and signed

Peter Byrne, Indian Agent.

Received from Mr. JD McLean on December 16, 1913, Mr. Byrne had his letter acknowledged of December 3, 1913, instant, and the enclosing of an application from Mr. Basil Nicholson for the position of teacher at the Sliammon Indian Day School in place of Mr. Biggar, who lately resigned. Mr. McLean begs to say that Mr. Nicholson’s appointment is approved and his salary will be at the same rate as Mr. Biggar’s, viz., $600 per annum.

On the same day, Mr. JD McLean, Assistant Deputy and Secretary of Indian Affairs, wrote a letter to Most Rev. T. Casey, Archbishop of Vancouver, Shaughnessy Heights, Vancouver, BC. In the letter, Mr. McLean had the honour to acknowledge the receipt of His Grace’s letter of the 25th ultimo recommending the appointment of Mr. Basil Nicholson as teacher of the Indian School at Sliammon, BC, in succession to Mr. Biggar, who has resigned.

In reply, Mr. McLean begs to say that His Grace’s recommendation is approved and the Indian Agent for this Reserve has been informed.

Mr. JD McLean responded to the letter from The Encyclopedia Britannica on Ottawa, May 28, 1914.

Gentlemen,—
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 22nd instant in which you direct the Department’s attention to a balance of $155.00 due you by Mr. A. L. Amado Bergera, who, you state, was formerly a teacher with the Sliammon School, Powell River, BC.
In reply, I beg to say that the Department has no record of any person of this name having taught the Sliammon Indian Day School. Your stamped addressed envelope is returned herewith.
Your obedient servant,
J.D. McLean Asst. Deputy and Secretary. Sent to The Encyclopedia Britannica, 116-120 West 32nd St., New York, N.Y., U.S.A.

June 2, 1914, The Encyclopedia Britannica responded to the Secretary, Department of Indian Affairs, in Ottawa, Canada.

Dear Sirs, In reply to your favour of the 28th ultimo, we are very much surprised to learn that you have no record of Mr. ML Amado Becerra teaching in the Sliammon School, Powell River, BC, Canada. In June 1912, we sold him a set of the Encyclopedia Britannica 11th Edition, valued at $225, payments to be made at the rate of $5 per month. Up to June 1913, payments were made promptly, and the account was reduced to the balance of $165, but we have since then been unable to obtain any response from Mr. Becerra in regard to the account. It will be no doubt interest you to read over the enclosed letters according to which Mr. Becerra purchased the books for the Sliammon School.
We understand that the former teacher with the Sliammon School was ML Edgar J Biggar; perhaps that is the man we are after, although the signature on the enclosed letters does not look anything like Biggar. If you can give us any insight into getting in touch with the man who purchased the books from us so that we can proceed with the collection of the balance due to us, we will very much appreciate your courtesy. Thanking you in advance for your courtesy in looking into the matter, we beg to remain, The Encyclopedia Britannica.

The Encyclopedia Britannica enclosed a letter dated September 4, 1912, from the Cambridge University Press in New York.

Dear Sirs, I have to hand today your Second Notice dated August 26, on receipt of the volumes August 22. I immediately forwarded to you my second installment of $5 to explain my delay. I believe that the rest is due on the 22nd of this present month. However, just an acknowledgement of yours, I write this, hoping to have your answer to my last and thanking you for the great pleasure caused in the school of receipt of works, which I find magnificent. I am yours truly, ML Amado Becerra.

Also attached to the same letter was a letter dated August 28, 1912.
(Sliammon School)9th Powell River Post Office, British Columbia, Canada
Cambridge University Press New York
August 28th 1912

Dear Sirs,
Referring to yours of July 16 & August 7, I may say that purposely I have delayed answering in order to have the books in my possession first. They have taken a long time in coming; but, however, I dare say that was not your fault. I am getting the Works for my school.
The children are cooperating with small collections monthly, so that you will understand that, for convenience’s sake, I must overlook the advantage to be gained by cash payments in full. I have decided to hold to my original idea and pay in monthly instalments of $5 (five dollars) each. I will forward the payments on the 22nd of each month. As you can understand by this system I have adopted, there is no bank (of course I hold myself responsible); however, if you could send me the cheques to be filled in monthly, it would help me greatly.
Re another matter, I had a receipt from Freight Office – Vancouver, for $7.65 that I was obliged to pay before books could be forwarded on; according to the original idea, I understand that the volumes would be forwarded free of expense at once. Enclosed you will find (illegible) fill in, and the bill for five dollars being my second payment, I am truly yours, ML Amado Becerra.

From the Indian Affairs office in Ottawa, a response was given to the Encyclopedia Britannica on June 9, 1914.

Gentlemen,—
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 2nd instant in further reference to your claim for $165.00, balance due by Mr. M. L. Amado Becerra of Sliammon, Powell River, BC, for the purchase of a set of Encyclopedia Britannica, together with two letters from that gentleman addressed to your firm.
In reply, I beg to say that, as you were previously informed, the Department has no record of any person of this name having taught the Sliammon Indian School. On comparing the letters from Mr. Becerra above referred to with communications on file from Mr. M. L. Edgar J. Biggar, the handwriting is found to be very similar, and I would not hesitate to say that they are written by the same person.
Mr. Biggar severed his connection with this school on October 31 last, and since then we have no record of his whereabouts. I may inform you, however, that he was appointed on the recommendation of His Grace the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Vancouver, the Most Rev. M. O’Neill, who is now Archbishop of Toronto, Ont., and the Rev. J. E. MacDonald of Powell River, BC. These gentlemen might be able to communicate with Mr. Becerra or Biggar. I may add the Department never authorized the purchase of this work and it was never in our possession, signed by JD McLean, Assistant Deputy and Secretary and addressed to The Encyclopedia Britannica, 120 West 32nd St., New York, N.Y., U.S.A.

On July 9 1914, another letter arrived at the Department of Indian Affairs in Ottawa, Ontario. This letter came from, “LOOK IT UP IN NELSONS”

Thomas Nelson & Sons ESTABLISHED 1798 PUBLISHERS NELSON’S PERPETUAL LOOSE-LEAF ENCYCLOPAEDIA RESEARCH BUREAU FOR SCIENTIFIC AND SPECIAL INFORMATION 389-393 Fourth Avenue (Corner of 27th Street) New York.
Dept. of Indian Affairs, Ottawa, Ont., Canada.
Dear Sirs:—
Will you be good enough to advise in the enclosed, stamped addressed envelope if you have a record of one M. L. Edgar J. Biggar formerly of Sliammon School, Powell River, BC? Any information which you may be able to give us regarding his present whereabouts will be very greatly appreciated.
Perpetually Yours for the perfect reference System, THOMAS NELSON & SONS signed RE Ellis.

On July 13, 1914, Mr. McLean responded to Thomas Nelson and Sons from his office in Ottawa, July 13.

Gentlemen,— I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 9th instant asking if the Department has any record of one Edgar J. Biggar formerly of Sliammon School, Powell River, B.C.
In reply, I beg to say that the Department has no information regarding Mr. Biggar’s whereabouts since he severed his connection with the Sliammon Indian School on October 31 last. He was appointed to take charge of this school on the recommendation of His Grace the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Vancouver, the Most Rev. L. McNeil, who is now Archbishop of Toronto, Ont., and the Rev. J. B. McDonald of Powell River, B.C., and perhaps these gentlemen might be able to give you some information regarding him.
Your stamped addressed envelope is returned herewith.
Your obedient servant, J. D. McLean, Asst. Deputy and Secretary.
Messrs. Thomas Nelson & Sons, 381–385 Fourth Ave., New York, N.Y., U.S.A.

The Thomas Nelson and Sons company was not giving up on trying to find Mr. Biggar; they sent another letter on July 16, 1914, to Mr. McLean, the Assistant Deputy and Secretary of the Department of Indian Affairs in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
“LOOK IT UP IN NELSON’S”

Thomas Nelson & Sons Established 1798 Publishers Nelson’s Perpetual Loose-Leaf Encyclopedia Research Bureau for Scientific and Special Information 334-336 Fourth Avenue (Corner 27th Street) New York July 16, 1914
Mr. McLean, Asst. Deputy & Sec’y, Dept. of Indian Affairs, Ottawa, Ont., Canada.
Dear Sir:—
IN RE EDGAR J. BIGGAR.
We are very grateful to you for your letter of July 13 in reply to ours requesting information regarding the whereabouts of the above party. We also thank you for your references, and we are communicating with the parties mentioned today in the hope of getting some information relative to his whereabouts.
Thanking you for your very prompt and full reply, we desire to remain
Perpetually Yours for the Perfect Reference System, THOMAS NELSON & SONS, J.L.E.

A letter sent to the Canada Manufacturing Importing and Distribution Co Ltd from Mr JD McLean, Assistant Deputy and Secretary on January 23, 1915 repeated comments from other letters to other organizations about Mr Biggar.

Ottawa, January 23, 1915.
Gentlemen, –
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 14th instant, asking if the Department has any record of one Edgar J. Biggar, formerly teacher at Sliammon Indian Day School, Powell Reserve, BCBC.
In reply, I beg to say that the Department has no information regarding Mr. Biggar, whatever, since he severed his connection with the Sliammon school on October 31, 1913. He was appointed to take charge of this school on the recommendation of His Grace the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Vancouver, the Most Reverend M. McNeill, who is now Archbishop of Toronto, Ont. and the Reverend J. B. McDonald of Powell Reserve, BCBC, and possibly these gentlemen might be able to give you some information regarding him.
Your obedient servant
J. D. McLean Assistant Deputy and Secretary
Canada Manufacturing, Importing & Distributing Co., Ltd., 319 Pender Street, West, Vancouver, B.C.

On the same day, a letter was written to Reverend Casey from Ottawa.
Ottawa, April 25, 1916.

Most Reverend Sir:—
I beg to inform Your Grace that the Department is in receipt of a communication from Mr. Basil Nicholson, teacher at the Sliammon Indian Day School, in which he states he is leaving shortly to join the colours and he hopes if he returns he may look for a position in the Department.
Mr. Nicholson has been informed that should he return from the front, the Department will be glad to have him take charge of this school again, and I have asked you, Grace, to be good enough to nominate a suitable person to take charge of the school during his absence. Kindly advise the Department as to the name, qualifications, etc of the person recommended for the position.
I have the honour to be, Most Reverend Sir, Your obedient servant,
signature
Assistant Deputy and Secretary.
Most Rev. T. Casey, Archbishop of Vancouver, Shaughnessy Heights, Vancouver, B.C

Mr McLean as well responded to Mr. Basil Nicholson on April 25, 1916.
Ottawa, April 25, 1916.

Sir,–
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 9th instant stating that you are leaving shortly to join the colours and that you hope if you return you may look for a position in the Department.
In reply, I beg to say that should you return from the front, the Department will be glad to have you take charge of the Sliammon Indian school again. The Most Rev. T. Casey, Archbishop of Vancouver, is being written to and requested to nominate a suitable person to take charge of the school during your absence.
Your obedient servant,
Asst. Deputy and Secretary.
Basil Nicholson, Esq., Teacher, Sliammon Indian Day School, Sliammon, Powell River, BC.

On the Indian Agents Office stationery, a letter was written on April 26 1916, by Indian Agent Peter Byrne to Ottawa.

Sir:-
I beg to enclose herewith the resignation of Mr. Basil Nicholson, teacher of the Sliammon Indian Day School, he having joined the Army for overseas service, and in view of this I would respectfully recommend that his resignation be accepted.
I have placed Mr. and Mrs. Marsden (whose application for the position of teacher and matron at the proposed school on Chahalis Reserve has already been forwarded to headquarters) in charge of this school, and everything is going along well. Mr. and Mrs. Marsden took charge on the 14th of this month.
Your obedient servant, Peter Byrne, Indian Agent.
Enclosure: The Assistant Deputy & Secretary, Department of Indian Affairs, Ottawa.

Mr. Byrne was kept busy with the Sliammon Day School trying to keep teachers there, when he had to write yet another letter to Ottawa on May 3 1916.

Sir,–
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 26th ultimo reporting the resignation of Mr. Basil Nicholson, teacher of the Sliammon Indian Day School, as he has joined the Army for overseas service, and stating that you have placed Mr. and Mrs. Marsden in charge.
In reply, I beg to say that Mr. Nicholson informed the Department of his resignation, and you were so advised, and His Grace the Archbishop of Vancouver was asked to nominate a suitable person to take charge of the school during Mr. Nicholson’s absence.
If you will be good enough to refer to official letter of the 22nd ultimo, which was sent you in reply to an application made by Mr. Marsden for the position of teacher of the Sliammon Indian School, you will see that the Department approved of the appointment of Mr. and Mrs. Marsden as teacher and matron of this school at a salary of $900.00 per annum, their duties to commence as soon as the school building and teacher’s residence are ready for occupation.
If the Marsdens wish to remain at Sliammon, they can only be paid at the same rate as was allowed Mr. Nicholson, as there is no need of a matron at this point, and in the event of his return he will be entitled to again take charge of this school, should he wish to do so.
You had better consult with Archbishop Casey in regard to providing teachers for the Sliammon and Othahalis schools. In the meantime, Mr. and Mrs. Marsden may have the choice as to which school they wish to take.
Your obedient servant,
Peter Byrne, Esq., Indian Agent, New Westminster, BC.
Asst. Deputy and Secretary.

Mr JD McLean received a letter from the Archbishop of Vancouver, Reverend Casey, on May 4 1916, on the subject of the school at the Sliammon Indian School.
Shaughnessy Heights, Vancouver, B.C. May 4, 1916.
Mr. J. D. McLean, Asst. Deputy & Sec’y, Ottawa, Ont.

My dear Mr. McLean:-
In reply to your favour of the 25th ult. I beg to state that I have made due inquiry, as you kindly invited me to do, concerning the Indian School at Sliammon. It will not be, perhaps, amiss to tell you in confidence that there was considerable satisfaction at the departure of Mr. Nicholson on account of his drinking habits. There is at present a good woman, whose name I have forgotten for the moment, teaching in the school, and with great satisfaction to all parties concerned. I believe that Mr. Byrne, Indian Agent at New Westminster, will apply for her appointment, whether temporarily or permanently, I am sure, may be left to the good judgment of the Indian Department at Ottawa.
With much respect, I am, Yours truly in Dno.
signed T Casey
Archbp. of Vancouver.

In wartime, certain things happen suddenly, from drafts to a call from the Country for troops; those sitting in Government offices were seeing it daily. May 9, 1916, Mr. Peter Byrne wrote a letter explaining a teacher’s sudden departure and resignation to Ottawa.

INDIAN AGENT’S OFFICE, New Westminster, B.C.
May 9, 1916.
Referring to Departmental letter dated 3rd inst. No. 246210/1, re the resignation of Mr. Basil Nicholson, as teacher of the Indian Day School at Sliammon, and his successors there, Mr. & Mrs. Marsden, I would say that Mr. Nicholson made up his mind rather suddenly to join the colors, and on his notifying me that he was going to leave I advised Mr. & Mrs. Marsden, who were then waiting for a reply from the Department, in regard to their application for the position of teacher and matron at Chehalis, in regard to this vacancy, stating the salary which their predecessor Mr. Nicholson was receiving, and they accepted the position at the same salary, pending the opening of the school at Chehalis.
As the present school term, until the holidays, is only about seven weeks, I do not think it will be possible for me to get a school at Chehalis, and the teachers’ cottage put in proper repair for occupancy in time to justify the opening of this school before the summer holidays commence. I will, however, proceed with the work as rapidly as possible, and also advise Mr. & Mrs. Marsden of the decision of the Department in regard to this matter.
Your obedient servant,
Peter Byrne
Indian Agent.

The Assistant Deputy & Secretary Department of Indian Affairs, Ottawa.
Another letter sent to the Archbishop of Vancouver, written on May 12, 1916, was replying to the letter of the 4th.
Ottawa, May 12, 1916.

Most Reverend Sir,–
In reply to the letter from Your Grace of the 4th instant, with reference to the appointment of a teacher for the Sliammon Indian Day School, I beg to say that the Department will await a report from Mr. Agent Byrne concerning this matter. It is hoped that he will be able to recommend a suitable teacher to take charge of this school.
I have the honour to be,
Your Grace’s obedient servant
Mr JD McLean
Assistant Deputy and Secretary
Most Rev. T. Casey, Archbishop of Vancouver, Chungchany Heights, Vancouver, B.C.

On May 19, 1916, Mr Byrne wrote a letter explaining the current situation of trying to retain a teacher at Sliammon to the Department.

Ottawa, May 19, 1916.
Sir,- 692/25
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 9th instant in reference to the appointment of teachers for the Sliammon and Chehalis Schools.
In reply, I beg to say that if Mr. and Mrs. Marsden decide to go to Chehalis after the summer holidays, you will be good enough to take the necessary steps to secure a suitable teacher for the Sliammon School. Kindly advise the Department as to what action you take in this matter.
EXTRACT FROM THE REPORT OF INSPECTOR R.M. CAIRNSON THE KLAHANIE BAY SCHOOL (NEW WESTMINSTER AGENCY)
Report dated June 15, 1916.
The attendance is poor partly due to the fact that the Indians are away from home frequently and partly due to indifference on the part of some of the parents.
Average attendance Dec. 15/15….11.60
Average attendance Mar. 15/15….9.
TEACHER. William Marsden, no teacher’s certificate. He is a fellow of the Royal Institute of Architects of Canada. He also did some coaching in College: salary, $600.00 per annum, age, 46 years.
Mr. Nicholson, who taught in this school over two years resigned his position in April of this year to join the colors. He is now training, preparing to go to Europe to fight for King and Country.
Date of Visit, June 15, 1916.

A letter written on July 29 1916, by Assistant Deputy and Secretary JD McLean to Agent Peter Byrne of New Westminster was another letter in a chain of letters on the subject of the teachers at the Sliammon Indian Day School.

Ottawa, July 29, 1916.
Sir,–
I beg to refer you to the official letter of May 19 last, in which you were instructed to take the necessary steps to secure a suitable teacher for the Sliammon school, if Mr. and Mrs. Marsden decided to go to Chehalis after the summer holidays. The Department would like to know what action you have taken in regard to securing teachers for these two schools.
Mr. Inspector Adams, in a recent report on the Sliammon school, states that the attendance is poor, partly due to the fact that the Indians are away from home frequently and partly due to indifference on the part of some of the parents. Kindly state whether you consider a truant officer should be appointed for this school and, if so, you should give the name of a suitable Indian to act in this capacity and state what remuneration he would expect for his services.
Your obedient servant,
J.D. McLEAN Asst. Deputy and Secretary.
Peter Byrne, Esq., Indian Agent, Westminster, B.C.

August 9, 1916, written on Indian Agent stationery, was a report from Agent Peter Byrne written to Ottawa.

INDIAN AGENT’S OFFICE, New Westminster, B.C. August 9, 1930
Sir,
Referring to Departmental letter dated the 29th ultimo No. 246210/1, dealing with the question of teachers for the Sliammon Indian Day School. I beg to state, in confirmation of my letter dated July 13 last, that Mr. and Mrs. Marsden have decided to remain at Sliammon School as Teacher and Matron, for $600.00 per annum, instead of taking charge of the new school to be opened at Chehalis.
Previous to the date on which Mr. Marsden took over Sliammon School, the Indians seemed to express considerable dissatisfaction with the then teacher, and in fact with myself, as Indian Agent; chiefly owing to the determination of the Indians to cut and sell timber without the consent of the Department to do so, and my action of seizing a certain boom of cut and collection therefrom timber dues amounting to $300.00.
I do not consider that the appointment of a truant officer will tend to increase the attendance at this school as the Indians of this band are rather difficult to control at times. I think, however, that the presence of Mr. and Mrs. Marsden on the Reserve continuously will have a very beneficial effect, and I am in hopes that the attendance at school will be up to the maximum before the end of the present quarter.
Your obedient servant
HD McLean, Indian Agent.
The Assistant Deputy & Secretary, Department of Indian Affairs, Ottawa.

The Royal Commission of Indian Affairs for the Province of British Columbia, sitting at Belmont House, wrote a letter that was referred to personally on October 16, 1916.

ROYAL COMMISSION ON INDIAN AFFAIRS FOR THE PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
NATHANIEL W. WHITE, K.C., CHAIRMAN J. C. CAMPBELL, B.A., LL.B. JAMES R. REAGH, M.A., LL.B. DAN M. MACMILLAN C. H. GIBBONS, SECRETARY
BELMONT HOUSE VICTORIA, B.C. October 16th, 1916
Dear Mr. Scott:
The Rev. J. B. McDonald, who was a lad when I was a senior student and whose family on PEI Island are old friends, is now stationed at Powell River, BC. He writes me:
“I am quite interested in the Indian school at Sliammon. It is conducted by Mr. and Mrs. Jamieson — a very fine English family — But they only get about $500.00 per year. Can’t you arrange it with the Department so that they have a little more to live on?
Try and get at least $25 per month for the woman – so she can help. That is if you can’t get $75.00 for Mr Marsden. Up at Massett, the teacher gets $75.00, and his wife $25.00. Fr McDonald was there for a time. This is a special case, and being valuable people, they should be encouraged. I feel confident you will help; I am also writing to Mr. Byrne of New Westminster”
I have replied that I have really nothing to do with such matters, but that I am bringing his favourable comments and suggestions respecting the Jamiesons to your attention, assuring him that you are deeply interested in Indian education and always give sympathetic consideration to the claims of teachers. I have added, however, that much depends upon the report of Mr. Agent Byrne, and that you have to keep within the appropriation for education, and that these are times in which it is difficult to get increased appropriations outside of war purposes.
Yours faithfully, J. A. J. McKenna addressed to Duncan C. Scott, Esq., Deputy Supt.-General of Indian Affairs, Ottawa.
Your obedient servant, Asst. Deputy and Secretary.
Peter Byrne, Esq.,
Indian Agent, New Westminster, B.C.

A memorandum sent to Scott from the Department of Indian Affairs, Ottawa, on October 30, 1916, was in response to trying to keep a teacher at the Sliammon School.

MEMORANDUM.
Mr. Scott,-
With reference to the application made by the Rev. J. B. McDonald for an increase in salary to Mr. Marsden, teacher of the Indian school at Sliammon, which has been sent to the Department by Mr. McKenna, I beg to say that Mr. Marsden is at present in receipt of a salary of $600.00, not $500.00 as mentioned by Father McDonald. At the time of his appointment, he was aware that this was the salary he was to receive; in fact, he took this position in preference to the school at Chehalis, where he and Mrs. Marsden would have received a joint salary of $900.00.
There has never been a field matron at Sliammon, although there are as many Indians there as at Chehalis, where one is provided for. If it is thought advisable to have a field matron at Sliammon, the position could be given to Mrs. Marsden, and this would give them a salary of $900.00 a year.
It is hardly fair to make a comparison between the salaries paid at Massett and Sliammon, as there is a much larger enrolment at Massett and the cost of living is considerably higher there than in the Westminster Agency.
Mr. Inspector Cairns, in his report on the Sliammon school, reports favourably on Mr. Marsden’s work and says that Mrs. Marsden visits in the homes and tries to stimulate the girls and women to keep their homes neat and tidy. She is actually doing as good work as the ordinary field matron, and there is no good reason why they should not be paid as well here as at Chehalis, but as they took $600.00 in preference to $900.00 at Chehalis I do not see that the Department is in any way to blame.

From Ottawa to Mr. RH Cairns, Esq., the Inspector of Indian Schools, who had an office at 249 Hastings Street East, Vancouver, BC, received a letter dated October 31, 1916.

October 31, 1916.
Dear Sir,-
I have received an application for an increase in the salary of Mr. Marsden, Teacher at the Indian school at Sliammon, B.C., or for a grant for Mrs. Marsden as field matron.
Will you please let me have a report from you with reference to the work of Mr. Marsden and let me have your opinion regarding increased emolument for them.
Yours very truly,
Deputy Superintendent General.
R. H. Cairns, Esq., Inspector of Indian Schools, 249 Hastings Street, East, Vancouver, B.C.

Letters from Mr R Cairns seem to be intermittent. On November 15, 1916, a letter was written from him to Duncan C Scott, Esq., Deputy Superintendent General, Department of Indian Affairs, in Ottawa, Canada, in regard to Mr. William Marsden.
849 Hastings St. East, Vancouver, B.C.,

November 15, 1916.
Duncan C. Scott, Esq., Deputy Superintendent General, Department of Indian Affairs, Ottawa, Canada.
Dear Sir:
Your letter of October 21 re the salary of Mr. William Marsden, teacher of the Indian Day School at Sliammon, came to hand during my absence in the North.
Mr. Marsden has a good education, but no training as a teacher. He took charge of this school in April 1916.
Mr. Marsden is doing good work in the classroom. His work on the whole is satisfactory. He is tidy, energetic, and alert. He is kind and considerate in his treatment of the pupils.
Mrs. Marsden visits the homes of the people. She is taking a special interest in the women and the children of the Reserve. She evinces a keen interest in the physical and moral welfare of the people.
In view of the fact that there is a hospital within two miles of the village, where medical treatment is available, I would not recommend a Field Matron.
I would, however, respectfully recommend, taking into account the efficient work of Mr. Marsden, and the ever-increasing cost of living, that his salary be increased to $720.00 per annum.
Your obedient servant, R.H. Cairns

The world was growing, and towns and cities were expanding rapidly in British Columbia, and opportunities were becoming more available. Money was always the one thing keeping those employed in a place there, and when it was not enough money, more was asked for. On November 23, 1916, Mr. JD McLean wrote a letter on such a subject.

Ottawa, November 23, 1916.
Sir,—
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 15th instant in regard to the salary of Mr. Marsden, teacher of the Clalmon Indian Day School.
In reply, I beg to say that the Department is not prepared to increase Mr. Marsden’s salary, but Mr. Agent Bryne has been written to for a report in regard to the work done by Mrs. Marsden and informed that the Department is prepared to consider the question of paying her a small amount annually for field matron work, provided he thinks it is advisable to do so. As soon as his report is received, the matter will be dealt with.
Your obedient servant,
J.D. McLean Asst. Deputy and Secretary.
R.H. Cairns, Esq., Inspector of Indian Schools, 249 Hastings St. East, Vancouver, B.C.

The same day, a letter was written by Agent Peter Byrne on the same matter of salaries.

Ottawa, November 23, 1916.
Sir:—
The Department desires to draw your particular attention to the case of Mr. and Mrs. Marsden who are at Sliammon. Mr. Marsden has charge of the Indian Day School and is paid a salary at the rate of $600.00 per annum. In your letter of August 8 (file 24631-1), in which you referred to the Marsdens’ work, you mentioned Mrs. Marsden as field matron. She is not entitled in the present title to that rank, as her appointment to that office was made in connection with her work at Chehalis. Since her removal to Sliammon, she has not been recognized by the Department as a field matron.
A report dated November 16 has been received by the Department from Mr. Ralston bearing on this matter. He states that Mrs. Marsden visits the homes of the people and takes a special interest in the women and children on the Reserve, particularly with regard to their physical and moral welfare. Still, he remarks that as there is a hospital within two miles of Silimon, where medical treatment is available, he does not recommend her appointment as a field matron.
Mr. Cairns recommended that Mr. Marsden’s salary as teacher of the Silimon school be increased to $750.00 per annum. The Department is not disposed to augment his salary, but at the same time recognizes that $600.00 is a small amount to pay for the work which is being done jointly by Mr. and Mrs. Marsden. It is therefore desired that you will look into the matter and make a report stating your view of the case. If you are of the opinion that the services of a field matron are required at Sliammon and if you think that Mrs. Marsden should be paid for work of that kind, you should make a definite recommendation in regard thereto.
The Department is prepared to consider the question of paying a small amount annually to her for field matron’s work, provided you think it advisable to do so. You should lay before the Department the conditions which exist on the Sliammon Reserve, and state whether the work done at the Hospital referred to by Mr. Cairns meets all the requirements of the Indians of the Reserve.
Peter Byrne Esg., Indian Agent, New Westminster, B.C. Sliammon.

“I know of many such cases; I believe the C.P.R. carried their men for six months at full pay. I have met one man connected with the Law Courts in a certain province who is having two-thirds of his pay put to his credit all the time he is on Active Service.
My object in writing is to respectfully ask the Department for some consideration on the above lines. I may say, owing to the increased cost of living, my wife living in Vancouver finds it a very hard proposition to keep herself and our three children on the income she is receiving at the present time. I would thank you very much if you would kindly take this matter up and give it your favourable consideration.
My wife and family are living at: 905 Howe Street, Vancouver, B.C.
For reference, I would refer you to Rev. Dr. O’Boyle, O.M.I., P.P., 646 Richards Street, Vancouver, and Mr. Byrne, the Agent at New Westminster, for any enquiries you might wish to make.
As I may be moving from here very shortly, expecting to be moved to the Pay Corps, London, I beg for the favour of a reply to the undernoted address.
I remain, your obedient servant, Basil Nicholson
645259 Pte. B. Nicholson, 5 Ashbrooke, Coleraine, County Derry, Ireland.

A reply came to Mr. B Nicholson on October 30, 1917, from the Assistant Secretary, Mr. McLean, in regard to his request.

Ottawa, October 30, 1917.
Sir,—
In reply to your letter of the 9th instant, I beg to say that the Department regrets that it is unable to accede to your request for the continuation of a portion of your salary as teacher of the Sliammon Indian Day school during the period you are on service overseas.
Your case does not come within the provisions of the Orders in Council relating to enlistment, as at the time you enlisted you sent in your resignation as teacher of the above school. You were, however, informed that, should you return, the Department would be glad to have you take charge of the school again.
Your obedient servant,
Mr HD McLean
Assistant Secretary. sent to
645259, Pte. B. Nicholson, 5 Antrimoke, Coleraine, County Derry, Ireland.

May 14, 1919, came an acknowledgement letter; this was nearing the conclusion of correspondence carried over for 3 years.
Ottawa, May 14, 1919.

Sir,–
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your telegram of the 12th instant, which reads as follows: “Advised by Indian Agent New Westminster letter recd from Dept. offering me Homalco School surprised promise return to Sliammon per my Department letter twenty-fifth April nineteen sixteen thirtieth October nineteen seventeen file 24620/1 ignored why prefer temporary occupant at Sliammon formerly discharged soldier who looked to Sliammon at certainty when they have no children and Homalco is unsuited for education my children an idle awaiting confirmation of promise made please wire an answer.”
In reply I beg to say that, while you are correct in stating that you are entitled to again take charge of the Sliammon School, should you wish to do so, the Department has simply carrying out the expressed desire of the Indians in wishing to retain Mr. Marsden there, and in suggesting that you should take the school at Homalco you were being offered a postions and I understand that you should take the school there and you are being offered a position equal to the one at Sliammon.
As, however, you are not satisfied to accept the suggested change, you may again resume your duties as teacher at Sliammon as soon as Mr. Marsden can be transferred to Homalco, say at the end of this month, and Agent Bryne will be instructed to have the change made by that date. As complaints have been made of your habits in the past, your retention in the position will be dependent upon your giving satisfaction in the future.
Your obedient servant,
Asst. Deputy and Secretary. addressed to Basil Nicholson, Esq., 1499 Georgia St. W., Vancouver, B.C.

AUTHOR’S NOTE: If you wanted more documents, as some may not have been included on this Website. History is about learning from the past, no matter the subject or the individuals involved. While many historical documents tell stories, these accounts do not always provide a complete picture of events, nor do they necessarily cover even a part of the broader narrative.

This collection of historical documents, dating from 1900 to 1940, originates from the Indian Affairs School Files, primarily from the Vancouver Agency. They provide detailed insights into various aspects of the Sliammon Day School, including correspondence, information about teachers, school repairs, and other general administrative matters.

These documents do not tell the stories of the lives of those who attended the Sliammon Day School, the quality of the education, how it was administered, or the daily events that occurred.

On Facebook is a page titled VanishingHistoryPowell River, and in that Facebook Page are more files;

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