The influx of new and old settlers to the Colony, and the imperfect preparations made for their shelter and sustenance led to the whole Company betaking itself for the winter to Pembina, where at Fort Daer they might be within reach of the buffalo herds.

Governor Semple accompanied the settlers to Pembina, though Alexander Macdonell had charge for the winter.

In October of 1815, as the settlers were preparing for their winter quarters, the authorities of the Colony thought it right to seize Fort Gibraltar, and to retake the field pieces and other property of the Colony, which the "Nor'-Westers" had captured.
This was done and Duncan Cameron who had returned was also taken prisoner.

Cameron, on his promising to keep the peace was almost immediately restored to his liberty and to the command of his fort.

The feeling, however, all over the country where there were rival Forts was not a happy one and gave anxiety to both parties as to the future.