The Beginnings in Canada

January 20th, 1899

The first Doukhobor immigrants arrive in Halifax. They began their journey across the country to Saskatchewan, where they establish homesteads on government land.

With the help of the great Russian writer Leo Tolstoy, and others, more than 7,000 Doukhobors set up 61 villages in the Canadian Prairies.

1907

Fearing they will be recruited for military service, and in keeping with their ideals, Doukhobors refuse to swear allegiance to the British Crown. As a result, The Government of Canada confiscates two-thirds of Doukhobor land.

1908

Under the leadership of Peter Verigin, some 5,000 Doukhobors buy land in British Columbia and relocate to the Kootenay region.