[1] Several large land companies were established in the mid-nineteenth century in Canada.
The British American Land Company was established in Quebec in 1832, and received its charter in 1834.
[2] These companies, financed by shares sold in England, purchased large areas of Canadian land at low prices, promising to develop roads, mills and towns.
Over the years, the Company tried various schemes to entice settlers from various English counties.
The company also promised employment on road works, provisions at moderate prices, and medical assistance, and offered to advance the cost of transit as a loan.