The Trump family fortune sprung from this Canadian hotel-brothel

The Unlikely Origins of the Trump Empire in Canada

Introduction: A Historical Irony
The story of the Trump family’s prosperity begins in an unexpected place—Canada. At a time when Canada is resisting Donald Trump’s annexation efforts, it is intriguing to note that the foundation of his family’s fortune was laid in a remote region of British Colombia. Friedrich Trump, the grandfather of the former U.S. President, established a restaurant and brothel during the Klondike Gold Rush, which became a pivotal moment in the Trump family’s history.

Friedrich Trump’s Entrepreneurial Venture
In the late 19th century, Friedrich Trump, a German immigrant, saw an opportunity in the Klondike Gold Rush. He built the Arctic Restaurant & Hotel in Bennett, a town that emerged during the gold rush. This venture catered to miners seeking their fortune, offering them food, lodging, and other services. Today, a replica of this establishment stands at the Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site, symbolizing the humble beginnings of the Trump empire.

A Barber’s Apprentice to a Gold Rush Entrepreneur
Friedrich Trump’s journey from Germany to America was driven by ambition. Starting as a barber’s apprentice, he moved to New York City and later Seattle, where he opened an eatery. The allure of gold led him to Canada, where he and his partner established the Arctic Restaurant & Hotel. Their menu featured roadkill, and their success was fueled by the miners’ rush, allowing Friedrich to amass a significant fortune.

The Arctic Restaurant & Hotel: More Than Just a Business
The Arctic Restaurant & Hotel quickly gained fame, not only for its food but also for its other offerings. It was known for its lively atmosphere, with newspaper ads hinting at additional services beyond dining. These activities attracted both patrons and criticism, as some deemed it unsuitable for respectable women. The hotel became a hub for miners, offering a place to relax and conduct transactions, sometimes using gold as payment.

The End of an Era and a Legacy Born
By 1901, as the gold rush waned and authorities cracked down on illegal activities, Friedrich Trump sold his business and returned to Germany. He later resettled in New York City, where his son Fred was born. Fred used the inherited wealth to invest in real estate, laying the groundwork for Donald Trump’s future empire. The Arctic Restaurant & Hotel’s legacy endures, its name a reminder of the entrepreneurial spirit that defined the Trump family.

From Canada to the Trump Empire
The story of Friedrich Trump in Canada is a testament to the unexpected roots of the Trump family’s success. From a small restaurant in British Columbia to the towering Trump buildings, the journey reflects ambition and opportunity. Pat Ellis, an author, notes the irony that Donald Trump, whose family’s wealth originated in Canada, now finds himself at odds with the nation. This historical connection underscores themes of gratitude and the enduring impact of immigrant entrepreneurship.