The Daily British Colonist

Press and Propaganda

A month later, the Colonist recorded the terrible impact of the smallpox on the Tsimshians, but did not recommend any solutions.

26 April 1862, p. 3.

Mortality Among the Indians.--Since the above was written we learn from Rev. A. C. Garrett that the small-pox is creating fearful ravages at the Chimsean [Tsimshian] village. Twenty have died within the past few days; four died yesterday, and one body lies unburied on the beach, having no friends, and the others are afraid to touch it. Those buried are only covered with two or three inches of dirt, and it is feared that the disease will spread. Great alarm exists at the village, and it is thought that nearly the whole tribe will be swept away. We have not heard what action the authorities will take.