History of the NWMP

Reports of the lawlessness of the Canadian West and the presence of American traders in forts in Canadian territory began arriving in eastern Canada prompting one of the most significant actions up to that time—the formation of the North West Mounted Police. On July 8th, 1874, 300 troopers in their bright red jackets accompanied by 114 ox-drawn carts and 73 supply wagons headed west from Fort Garry, Manitoba. Following incorrect maps and unprepared for the rigors of the Canadian West, the troops suffered many hardships.

Two months later, low on supplies, commissioner George A. French and James F. Macleod left the main camp at Sweet Grass Hills and with a small escort, made their way to Fort Benton. Please continue to part II.