Beaver Fur

Beaver fur is a driving cash good in the northernmost regions of the North American continent. Fur pelts was the driving force behind the establishment of Fort Astoria. The fur is such a commodity to the Pacific Northwest that the beaver remains the national mammal of Oregon.

Properties

Material Characteristics

The pelt of a beaver is soft, and resistant to water. The beaver's warm double coat made it perfect for the making of coats.

History & Usage

History

The settlement of Fort Astoria became a trading hub for fur pelts in the pacific Northwest. Established to rival the Hudson Bay Company, the Pacific Fur COmpany grew to be the major economic company in Oregon. Following the Pemmican War between the Hudson Bay and Northwest Companies, the PFC bought the majority of assets from the NWC, increasing their revenue.

Discovery

Beavers became sought after for their fur since Europeans landed on North America. The European trappers traded with the natives for the commodity, and many companies were established for the explicit purpose of gathering and fermenting the pelts.

Everyday use

Beaver pelts have been used in the manufacturing of hats and coats for men and women.

Hazards

The over hunting of the North American beavers led to the endangerment of the animal's population.

Distribution

Trade & Market

Oregon's economy was at first greatly dependent on the trade of beaver fur. Three major companies, the largest of which being the Canadian Hudson Bay Company, competed with the hunting for the pelts, and even played the local native populations against each other in efforts to increase profits.

Law & Regulation

The nations of North America had various laws and regulations regarding the trade of fur. Oregon has, in the modern era, enacted the strictest laws preserving the beaver populations, and credited it as the national mammal.

Type

Livestock

Value

High Valuable

Rarity

Scarce

Color

Beaver fur primarily is brown in color, but also comes in black and white as well.