Artist’s conception of David Thompson. Oil painting by Alice Saltiel-Marshall ©

Parks Canada Commemorates David Thompson, Winter 2007

Through its national parks, national historic sites and heritage rivers, Parks Canada celebrates the spirit of Canada’s greatest explorer . David Thompson opened up the continent and charted the course of the Canadian imagination.

The 14-year-old lad from London arrived at Hudson Bay in 1784 with a new way of seeing the world, a European view that would direct the future of two nations. By horseback, canoe, dogsled and on foot, this multi-talented man travelled more than 90,000 kilometres. His great map offered the first clear vision of Canada.

Many of the natural wonders Thompson saw and the travel routes and historic places that link us to his time have become national parks and historic sites. These places define Canada and follow Thompson’s example in connecting the land, the waters, the past and the people.

The points of David Thompson’s moral compass—truth, co-operation, fairness and respect—still inspire the Canadian consciousness and illuminate our national spirit. They always will.