Demise of the Sadlermiut
Sadlermiut man, about 1830. Library and Archives Canada, R9266-30, Peter Winkworth Collection of Canadiana
1902 to 1903
The Sadlermiut were an isolated Inuit population living on what is now called Southampton Island, at the north end of Hudson Bay. In the fall of 1902, they were visited by the Scottish whaling ship Active, which, without knowing it, introduced an infectious disease, possibly influenza, typhoid or typhus. The entire Sadlermiut population of about 50 to 70 people died as a result.
Each day for 150 days leading up to the opening of the Canadian History Hall, we’re presenting one moment among the many that have shaped our country. Discover more of Canada’s significant historical events in the new Canadian History Hall, opening July 1, 2017.