McGill Library
McLennan Library Building3459 rue McTavish
Montreal, Quebec
H3A 0C9
Letter from John Painter, 28 May 1792
Item
1 sheet
John Painter was a merchant and justice of the peace in Quebec City. Born in approximately 1745 in England, he left for Quebec City in approximately 1765. He worked as a merchant there, importing and selling goods from the UK. Though he returned to England between 1776 and 1783, he then settled permanently in Quebec City. His business was successful, allowing him to purchase a large house that also served as his office. Painter was involved in the Union Company of Quebec, holding several positions including chairman (1810-1814). He also held positions as treasurer and deputy master of Trinity House of Quebec. Painter was also a member of the Fire Society and was a justice of the peace fort he District of Quebec. He married Margaret Stuart on 1 December 1786, and they had six children together. He died on 11 November 1815.
Letter from Jno. Painter to James Morrison, with information about a shipment of goods from Bristol including rum, sugar, coffee, chocolate and other food items (arrived via the ship King David). Includes an offer to charter the vessel for a voyage to Europe as Painter currently does not have enough goods for a return voyage, and a request that Morrison advertise this in his coffee house. Also includes political news of various European monarchs and members of the aristocracy, including the death of the Holy Roman Emperor.