Canada’s Elite Families Bid $18M to Reclaim Historic Hudson’s Bay Charter

A rare piece of Canada’s past could soon return home. Two powerful dynasties are betting big to secure—and share—this 354-year-old national artifact.

, and Administrator

2025 November 15 . 9:24 AM

1 min read

In this image we can see there is a poster with ships, boats, houses, shed, poles, flag and water.

Canada’s Elite Families Bid $18M to Reclaim Historic Hudson’s Bay Charter

Two of Canada's most prominent families, the Westons and Thomsons, have united to place an initial bid of $18 million for the historic royal charter that established Hudson's Bay. Should they succeed, they intend to gift this significant artifact to a consortium of four esteemed public institutions.

The Weston and Thomson families, known for their wealth and influence, have joined forces to acquire the 1670 charter that granted the Hudson's Bay Company its fur trading monopoly. If their bid is accepted, the charter will be donated to a collective of four respected institutions: the Archives of Manitoba, the Manitoba Museum, the Canadian Museum of History, and the Royal Ontario Museum.

In addition to the $18 million bid, the Westons and Thomsons have pledged an extra $5 million. This funding will support the conservation, education, and public tours related to the charter, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for future generations.

The Westons and Thomsons' bid for the Hudson's Bay royal charter stands at $18 million, with an additional $5 million committed for its preservation and public engagement. If successful, this acquisition and donation will enrich the collections of four significant Canadian institutions, further enhancing our nation's cultural heritage.