Simpson, Sir George (1787?-1860), served as governor of the North American territories of the Hudson’s Bay Company, a British fur-trading company. During most of his term from 1826 to 1860, the company’s land included a large part of what are now Canada and the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Simpson’s leadership helped make the company one of the world’s greatest fur-trading firms. Simpson was knighted in 1841 in recognition of his accomplishments.
Simpson was born in the Highland Region of Scotland. He moved to London about 1800 and became involved with the London office of the Hudson’s Bay Company. In 1820, the company appointed Simpson acting governor of its North American territories. Simpson helped negotiate the company’s merger with the rival North West Company in 1821 and became governor of the expanded company’s western territory. In 1826, he became governor of all its North American territories.
Simpson became known for his firm rule and ability to run the fur trade with economy and discipline. A hands-on manager, he traveled widely throughout his territory. He also expanded the company’s trade in the Pacific Northwest and established trade with Hawaii. Simpson died on Sept. 7, 1860.
