McTavish, Simon

(1750-1804)

   Born in the Highlands of Scotland. A man of "enormous energy and decision of character." Settled at Montreal. Engaged in the fur trade soon after the cession of Canada to England, and chiefly instrumental in organizing the North West Company, 1784. Purchased the seigniory of Terrebonne; entertained in princely style at his home in Montreal; and at the time of his death was engaged in building a huge mansion at the foot of Mount Royal.

   Index: MS A leader in the fur trade, 10; known as le Marquis and le Premier, 23, 91; his dislike for Alexander Mackenzie, 23; his haughty temper and domineering spirit make him unpopular, 54, 91, 93; compared with Mackenzie, 92; puts new life into North West Company, 99; his death, 1804, 99. Bk And McGillivray of North West Company, send news of declaration of war, 203.

   Bib.: Masson, Bourgeois de la Compagnie du Nord-Ouest; Bryce, Hudson's Bay Company.