From Salt Spring Island and Cowichan

Daily Chronicle
February 28, 1866

From Rev. Mr J. C. B. Cave, of Comox, who arrived last evening from Salt Spring Island via Cowichan and Saanich, we learn that he visited all the settlements on Salt Spring Island, and took a census of the population, from which it appears that there are 17 couples, 22 single men, and 42 children on the island, without including those at Burgoyne Bay (which place he was unable to reach) where there are about 15 souls, making the entire population 152. Mr. Cave conducted the moring service on Sunday last, at one of the settlements, and there was a good attendance of children at Sunday school. A school house has been erected and completed with the exception of the flooring. They have 42 children and want a teacher. After the morning service, the male portion of the population, conducted our informant over Tait mountain to Begg's settlement, where service was held in the afternoon. Mr Cave departed from Salt Spring Island on Monday morning, arriving at Maple Bay about 11 o'clock on the same day, visited some of the settlers and was much pleased with the fine appearance of the land. There was no snow on the ground, and several of the settlers have begun to plough. Left Maple Bay and walked into Cowichan, where he met Rev. Mr Reece, who is getting on well with the new parsonage, which is prettily located. Left Cowichan for Saanich on Monday evening, arrived there yesterday morning; visited most of the settlers at North and South Saanich and Lake districts, and walked to Porter's, whence he rode into town, arriving last evening. Mr Cave regards Salt Spring Island as one of the most promising settlements he has ever visited.