The Nootka Sound Crisis The international incident that put into question the very sovereignty of the Pacific Northwest. When: 7 pm, Wednesday, May 10, 2017 Location: Rotary Gallery of the Courtenay and District Museum Speaker: Catherine Gilbert In June 1789, the Spanish, under the leadership of Esteban Jose Martinez, built a substantial fort at Friendly Cove, on a grassy knoll below where the lighthouse stands today. What ever became of the fort? Why did the Spanish abandon Friendly Cove? These and other questions about the settlement of Nootka Island will be explored by historian Catherine Gilbert in her pictorial presentation about the Nootka Sound Crisis. Click for Details