I READ with interest the letter from Trevor Bevis in the Citizen (December 30) concerning my great, great grandfather Billy Barker.
It is true that he struck a sizable fortune in 1862 at William's Creek.
It may not be so well known as to the effect this gold strike had on Canadian history. The event triggered the formation of British Columbia and Billy Barker and Barkerville a
re indeed very much part of modern Canada's schools curriculum.
I was fortunate enough to be invited to unveil a new commemorative stone, which was taken from William's Creek and prepared with a new plaque attached. My great, great grandfather was buried in Ross Bay Cemetery, Vancouver Island and this is where the new stone was erected in September 2008.
He died a pauper but I understand a good deal of his fortune was spent sinking new shafts and funding others to do the same.
From what I have learned about him he was regarded as a generous and helpful person.
He married again in Canada but there were no children, although there is some speculation that the woman he married had a child by a previous relationship.
The new commemorative stone and my presence caused quite a media interest. Not only was I mentioned in the newspaper but I was also interviewed on Radio and Television. Such is the impact that Billy Barker had on Canadian history.
ELAINE EDGINGTON
Nuneaton.
