Pedro da Silva (post courier)


Pedro da Silva was the first post courier in New France, in what was to become part of Canada. He was Portuguese born and was known as Le Portugais.
Pedro da Silva is known to have arrived in New France prior to 1673, having worked there as a common courier. Later on he is known to have relocated to Sault-au-Matelot and involved himself in the shipping of goods in the colony. There is proof that in July 1693, Silva was paid 20 sols to take a package of letters from Montréal to Québec City. In 1705, he was commissioned by the -Intendant of New France, Jacques Raudot, as the "first courier" in New France.

Stamp

in June 2003 honouring Pedro da Silva.