Missionary, educator, colonist—Robert James Roberts was born in Ireland on December 8, 1831. He graduated from Trinity College Dublin in 1857 then journeyed to North America, arriving in Upper Canada in May of that year. The following year he met Anglican Bishop of Upper Canada Maurice Scollard Baldwin and expressed an interest in serving the Church of England. Roberts was admitted to Deacon’s Orders on December 15, 1858 and acted as a missionary for 20 years. Learn more.

Reverend Roberts often made notes in Pitman’s Shorthand which can be found throughout his journals and diaries. Please see the Pitman's English and Shorthand Dictionary if you would like to attempt a translation.

BC Archives PR-1511 Robert James Roberts fonds, 1845-1905

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