The historical document that established Hudson’s Bay approximately 355 years ago might soon have a new abode. The Canadian Museum of History revealed on Wednesday that Wittington Investments Ltd., a private Canadian holding company associated with the Weston family, has expressed interest in purchasing the charter for $12.5 million and donating it to the Quebec institution.
Dating back to 1670, the charter was endorsed by King Charles II and granted Hudson’s Bay extensive land rights across Canada, along with significant authority in trade and Indigenous relations for an extended period. While the acquisition is subject to court approval, the Westons intend to promptly and permanently transfer the document if permission is granted.
Galen Weston emphasized the importance of preserving national symbols and narratives during challenging times, highlighting the royal charter’s significance in Canada’s intricate history. The Weston family, renowned for their success in Canadian retail chains like Holt Renfrew, is also offering an additional $1 million in funding as part of the proposed purchase.
The museum plans to engage in a comprehensive consultation process with Indigenous communities to ensure the charter’s respectful sharing, interpretation, and contextualization. This funding will support the charter’s exhibition in various museums and public spaces.
Caroline Dromaguet, the museum’s CEO, described the donation as a pivotal moment for Canada, emphasizing its role in fostering national dialogue, education, and reconciliation for future generations. The interest in the charter arose when Hudson’s Bay faced financial challenges, leading to the formal offer from the Westons in June.
The offer’s appeal lies not only in its financial value but also in the commitment to providing access to Indigenous communities and archival institutions. The charter, originally slated for auction along with other artifacts, sparked concerns about preserving Canadian and Indigenous heritage. To address these concerns, viewing access was granted under non-disclosure agreements.
Experts consider the royal charter as the most coveted piece in the retailer’s collection, representing a significant historical artifact. The potential move of the charter to a museum setting aligns with the sentiment that such a valuable document should be publicly accessible and carefully preserved.
The charter, previously housed in Toronto, has been relocated to a secure facility for safeguarding essential documents and artifacts. Its temporary loan to the Manitoba Museum in 2020 underscores the ongoing effort to ensure its accessibility and preservation for future generations.