How Washington State Almost Became a Part of British Columbia

From the November 11, 2012 Province by Kent Spencer.

Most of the War of 1812 action took place on the east coast, but the British capture of Fort Astora on the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest was a big event. The fort was a newly established trading post dealing with furs. The British Northwest Fur Company purchased Fort Astoria. Had it remained under British control, Washington state would have been a part of Canada's British Columbia.

The British Navy sent the 36-gun sloop HMS Raccoon and, on arrival, demanded the formal surrender which took place and the place was renamed Fort George.

The Peace Conference of 1814 regarded the fort as occupied American territory and it was given back to the Americans.

Almost, But Not Quite. --Brock-Perry