On May 30, 1864 the Corps paraded in full strength to pay respects to Governor Kennedy. Governor Kennedy reviewed the company and in his address “he regretted that he was compelled to refuse to give them official recognition, as there was no authority for their existence now that the Hudson’s Bay Company’s administrative posts were at an end, I would advise you to disband.”
On May 9, 1865 the Daily British Colonist prints a letter signed by Post Capt. Pioneer Rifle Co. giving reasons why the Company has disbanded.
“… The mean and scandalous manner in which they have been treated upon the advent of Governor Kennedy is still fresh in their minds. Having as much human nature under their dark skins as others of paler hue, they cannot readily forget the snubbing they received on that occasion… The Volunteer Rifles though last in the field and well able to financially sustain themselves, have had a handsome sum voted them by the House of Assembly, the barracks given them for drill purposes, with every other stimulant to foster efficiency. In a word, Mr. Editor, the authorities seemed ashamed of us, and we were disgusted at them.”
While the Corps had disbanded, their drill hall continued as a community gathering place.
