STORIES FROM THE 1875-1885 NWMP FORT
To celebrate, our North West Mounted Police History, we wanted to showcase some of the people that made Fort Saskatchewan their home. Below you will find an excerpt from Fred Bagley who joined the force at age 15 (although the age requirement was 18) and against his family's wishes. He was stationed in Fort Saskatchewan from August 1875 to September 1880.
From the Diary (copy) of Fredrick Augustus Bagley, 1874-1881, 1884 Glenbow Archives, Fred Bagley fonds (M 44)
[1876] May 20th. The “Northcote” passed down river, taking Col. Jarvis’ mare “Croppie”.
May 29th. The Red River mail arrived to day. I received a letter from Sub Const. W. H. (“Bill”) Smith in which he says that the boys are organising a brass band at Fort Pelly. Civilian Bill Dixon arrived, with 150 head of cattle.
June 11th. Sub Inspector C. E. Denny, and Scout Piscan Munroe arrived from Bow River with one month’s pay for the Troop.
June 16th. Sub Inspector Denny, and party, departed for Bow River, taking murderer Charlie Godin with them. Sergt. Dick Steele and S.C. Pat Curran also went along as escort. Fort Brisebois changed in name to Fort Calgarry.
June 18th. Pere Blanchette, Beaulieu, Bourque and self to St. Albert to inspect a water power mill site Beaulieu is contemplating purchasing.