April 25, 1858: The Pioneer Committee from San Francisco arrives in Victoria

On April 25th,1858 the Steamship Commodore sailed into Victoria harbour from San Francisco. In addition to 450 gold seekers, 35 Black people were on board – the Pioneer Committee to consult with Governor Douglas. A delegation of three that met with Douglas: Fortune Richard, Wellington Delaney Moses and Mr. Mercier.

This plaque installed at the harbour by the City of Victoria on August 18, 1978 reads, “In commemoration of the arrival in 1858 of the first group of Black settlers to the Colony of Vancouver Island.”
bronze plaque inlaid on top of concrete causeway wall