Royal Canadian Mountain Police

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police, aka RCMP or mounties, was formed in 1920 when the Royal Northwest Mounted Police and Dominion Police merged. The Royal Northwest Mounted Police was founded in 1873 without the royal prefix - that would come later - and the Dominion police was formed in 1868. So there are a lot of years behind this organization. Much of what the public connects to the RCMP such as the distinctive dress uniforms, the legends of a fierce frontier force and the paramilitary heritage come from the days as the Northwest Mounted Police.

The Northwest Mounted Police - NWMP - was modelled after the Royal Irish Constabulary and originally formed in the North West Territories to bring law and order to that area. But I think that many of us are more familiar with the Mounties during the Klondike Gold Rush. They are credited with helping to make that a peaceful and orderly affair. The officers not only upheld the law but were also customs agents. They did a little bit of everything I guess.

To me, the Mounties in their dress uniforms will always be a symbol of Canada. It gives me a sense of pride to see one of these proud law officials and the musical ride sends shivers through me.

Outside a store on Broadway today I happened to see an RCMP officer but I have to tell you that I think the dress code has lapsed a bit.

Enjoy your Friday evening and I hope you find the humor and beauty around you.

TAGS:Vancouver, Karen Magill, RCMP,
Klondike Gold Rush,mountie,Broadway,Walk,