Okanagan Explosion: Missionaries
By Joshua Duncalfe
History of: Missionaries
Orgins/Dates
1847 protestants were settled in Oregon
Summer through winter of 1858 missionaries were called to Esquimalt Vancouver for a missionary retreat
February 1858 A group of missionaries including Charles Pandosy, Brother Surel and Theodore Lawrence decide to settle in British Columbia
1859 group of settlers declared settlement and had found the spot of New Mission
Several months after settlement the missionaries left down creek due to weather issues and settled in the spot by Mission Creek
1860 First log school, cabin and sales store is built by missionaries
1861 Father Pandosy and Brother Surel plant an immense amount of crops to support the missionaries and soon to be growing population
Importance
Role of the Okanagan Fur Brigade Trail
Early European Profile: Charles Pandosy
Early History
Born: 1824 at Marseilles France under the full name of Charles John Felix Adolphe Marie Pandosy. Charles was a member of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate for most of his life. Charles was privileged he worked under the wing of the head priest at a young age.
Charles was recognised for his signing voice at his church.
Pandosy lived with the Yakama tribe and taught them to plant harvest and then baptized them.
Father Pandosy's first assignment was the Oregon mission trip in 1848.
Reasons For Settlement
Early Accomplishements
Was a well known and respected Father at the church
Charles was head of choir out of Mary Immaculate
Father Pandosy had reportedly inspired several church members to become missionaries
Accomplishements in the Okanagan Valley
Baptised 121 people in 2 years
Taught natives French, instruments and to sing in latin
Founded the Mission
Lead several missionary retreats
Brought hundreds of settlers to the Okanagan valley
Built the first log settlement and grocery store
Planted several hundred crops for future generations
Legacy Today
Impact of Father Pandosy on the Growth and Devolpment of the Okanagan Valley
2 Interesting Facts about FAther Pandosy
1: Charles Pandosy was included in the Indian war
2: Charles Pandosy in his later years explored the Wine industry with tasting and even making his own
Father Pandosy Mission
Father Pandosy Mission Hosue
This is the oldest picture of the Pandosy Mission House the original settlement and is Father Pandosy's property