The British Columbian – British Columbia, John Robson 1861

When John Robson (1824–1892) established The British Columbian in 1861, Canada’s west coast comprised two distinct colonies. Vancouver Island had been established in 1849, while mainland British Columbia followed in 1858. The two colonies united in 1866 as the Colony of British Columbia and, after Confederation in 1867, became the Province of British Columbia.

Born in Upper Canada in 1824, John Robson began his career as a merchant in cities such as Montreal, Hamilton, and Brantford. In 1859, driven by gold fever, he ventured to British Columbia but spent two unsuccessful months panning for gold. Failing in his quest, Robson turned to journalism. Backed by influential citizens, he became editor of a new newspaper, The British Columbian.

The British Columbian was a weekly publication advocating for constitutional government. Robson’s goals for the paper included “Responsible Government, liberal institutions, the redress of all our grievances, and the moral and intellectual improvement of the people.”

Robson’s influence grew, and he was eventually elected to the provincial legislature. In 1889, he became Premier of British Columbia, all while continuing to publish his newspaper.