An insightful look at the first mayor of Nanaimo, BC, drawing heavily on his prolific and insightful written observations. Mark Bate, elected Nanaimo's first mayor in 1875, was a renaissance man. He loved music, writing, literature, the outdoors, community affairs, and of course politics. Bate served as mayor for sixteen terms--most by acclamation. He retired three times, returning to office after being persuaded to serve again. Historian Jan Peterson skillfully weaves Bate's own writing--including personal letters, business correspondence, and speeches--into the rich tapestry of nineteenth-century Nanaimo to create a three-dimensional portrait of a truly fascinating man. Bates witnessed and documented Nanaimo's evolution from mining settlement to incorporated municipality to bona fide city. Mark Bate: Nanaimo's First Mayor is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of this region and the settlers who helped to shape its communities.
