Land Survey
Boundaries
Exchange
Indian Reserve
Land

The Pictou Landing First Nation sought more land for their reserve in 1875, and the Provincial Government of Nova Scotia purchased a separate lot that was near, but not connected to the reserve, from James Sproull. As few roads existed in the area at the time, it was easier for residents of the reserve to cut across the property separating the two plots of land, which was also owned by Sproull. Sproull, in an effort to reduce 'trespassing,' proposed that an exchange of land be arranged between himself and Pictou Landing so that the two reserves would be connected. Indian Agent MacDonald reported, upon inspection of the land, that it would be equally beneficial to both Sproull and Pictou Landing to exchange these tracts of land.

1875-09-09
1875-09-09

Rev. MacDonald (Indian Agent) (correspondent)
Meredith (Secretary Department of Indian Affairs)

Personal correspondence

RG10, Reel C-11121, Vol 1957, file 4671.

"Sir, I have until now delayed to answer yours of the 16th April (no 4671) with the view of being able to reflect as accurately as possible. I have gone over with much care the portion of the Indian Reserve which Mr. Sproull desires to get in exchange for a portion of his own farm. I have also examined the [] of the lot which Mr. Sproull offers to the Indian Department. I have come to the conclusion that the proposed exchange cannot compromise the interest of the Indians of my district. In fact I am of opinion it would benefit the Indians quite as much as it would Mr. Sproull. If however your department should decide on making the exchange I would beg to suggest that care should be taken that Mr. Sproull's title is indisposable and also that no more of the Indian Reserve should be deeded to Mr. Sproull then would be an equivelant for the quantity in exchange. Very especially yours, R Macdonald JP"

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