c. 1667-1724

English mariner who explored the Canadian plains under the employ of the Hudson's Bay Company. Kelsey began his apprenticeship with the Hudson's Bay Company at the age of 17, and continued to work there for nearly 40 years. His first expedition with the company was in 1684, along the western shore of Hudson Bay. During his travels, Kelsey became proficient in the native languages, and in 1690 journeyed to the Saskatchewan River to promote trade with the Indians. During this trip, he is believed to have become the first white man to explore Canada's central plains. From 1718 to 1722, he served as overseas governor for the Hudson's Bay Company.