SATURDAY AUGUST 27 1PM AND 6PMMUSICAL2022 RIDE PRESENTEDPROUDLY BY
JUNE DECEMBERTO 3 SEASONS OF FARM FUN ERIN HILL ACRES 519-806-7273 www.erinhillacres.farm retail shoppe, photo opportunities, trout pond, chicken coop, children's play area, courtyard gathering space, walking trails & much much more! FARM FINDS: CONTACT US 5837 Third Line Hillsburgh ON lavender field-pumpkin patch-sunflower field-christmas trees @erinhillacres
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 3 PAGE 5 Welcome Back PAGE 6 Today’s Musical Ride PAGE 7 History of “The Ride” PAGE 8 Origins of “The Ride” PAGE 10 The Formations PAGE 14-15 Schedule of Events PAGE 18 The Horses PAGE 19 Women in the RCMP PAGE 21 The Uniform PAGE 22-23 Riding Through Time PAGE 24 Memories of 2016 PAGE 25 A Royal Occasion TO THE FOLLOWING BUSINESSES, ORGANIZATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO MAKE THIS SPECIAL EVENT POSSIBLE. (Listed in Alphabetical order). Additional contributions received after publication are greatly appreciated. Andy & Ruth King Ann Shanahan Team Arlene & Conrad Wheildon Brew House On The Grand Brighten Up Budson Farm & Feed Butt’s Berry & Flower Farm C.A.R.S. Garage Cavalier Transport Chantler’s Environmental Services Ltd. Christine Kerr Chricket & Mac Yule County of Wellington Denise Dilbey, Royal LePage Dominion Mini Storage Plus Inc. EAS JoanneGrandFergiesFaithEquipmentHomecraftOntarioErinRadio91.7Dennis,MHCOFineFoods,FergusGarry&EileenBrownGillianRiseboroughGlendaTaylorGrahamAnimalHospitalRiverAgriculturalSocietyGreg&DeniseRoweHelenMeyerHollyJacksEquestrianJamesDickConstructionJefferson&SallyMappin&WayneGregson&FamilyJuneSwitzerKleinFamilyLatam&Latam,RoyalLePageLeitchvilleFarmsLorneParkinson&FamilyMariaBritto,RE/MAXRealtyMarissaMallaisMcKinnonTimberMartMyrtleReidOntarioCleanWaterAgencyOntarioEquestrianOspringePresbyterianChurchPerryFamilyPeteandJoHeyden Pollock Family Premier Equipment, Ospringe Rapid Rentals Rob & Cheryl Fletcher Ryan/Petrie Family Sold Your Way Auctions Spray On Plastics Steve & Lynn Monroe Stewart’s Equipment The Horse Limo The Rider Tin Roof Cafe Tour de YourWellingtonTownHeadwatersofErinAdvertiserWoodlandsFarmHomeTodayRealtyInc.Zehrs,Fergus RCMP MUSICAL COMMITTEERIDE Co-Chairs: Eileen Brown, Rob Fletcher, Bridget Ryan Kevin EASEASMichaelPhilippaLindsayArgudinBodolaiBodolaiCathyFurnessNatalieKleinPattiKleinRobKleinMarissaMallaisMcLaughlinRachelPattersonCarolPollockRebeccaRobertsBoardofDirectorsHomecraftDivision INDEX THANK YOU Erin Agricultural Society WWW.ERINFAIR.COM519.833.2808 PUBLISHED BY THE WELLINGTON ADVERTISER FOR THE ERIN AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
PAGE 4 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE KEVIN LATAM kevin@latamandlatam.com226.790.3238Broker casey@latamandlatam.com226.917.9068 Office: 519.833.9714 Royal LePage Meadowtowne Realty, Brokerage Each Office Independently Owned and Operated 122-A Main Street, Erin N0B 1T0 CASEY STROYAN Sales casey@latamandlatam.com226.917.9068Representative KEVIN LATAM Broker kevin@latamandlatam.com26.790.32382 Office: 519.833.9714 Royal LePage Meadowtowne Realty, Brokerage Each Office Independently Owned and Operated 122-A Main Street, Erin N0B 1T0 MARK LATAM mark@latamandlatam.com519.400.9812Broker BRIAN VAGG Sales brian@latamandlatam.com226.917.9435Representative www.latamandlatam.com MARK LATAM mark@latamandlatam.com519.400.9812Broker BRIAN VAGG Sales brian@latamandlatam.com226.917.9435Representative
Sincerely,
Once again, EAS is honoured to host the RCMP Musical Ride, an iconic Canadian tradition. The Ride is a beautiful display of pageantry, precision and grace in a majestic display of calvary drills choreographed to music. This event has been made possible through the generous support of our Partners, the hard work of our many Volunteers, and through the dedication of our EAS Directors, EAS Homecraft and the RCMP Musical Ride committee. Enjoy the Show and thank you for joining us to celebrate our community and Canada.
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 5
WELCOME BACK TO THE RCMP MUSICAL RIDE AT THE ERIN FAIRGROUNDS
Erin Agricultural Society Executive and Board of Directors& EAS Homecraft BACK WELCOME On behalf of the Erin Agricultural Society, we hope you enjoy the show. 850 St. David St. N. Fergus, 519.843.1035ON CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM 850 St. David St. N. Fergus, 519.993.6304ON RV 875 Woodlawn Rd. W. Guelph 519.821.0520ON BUICKGMC Enjoy The Ride, and Test Drive One of Our Rides!
farming supplies! Stop by
help.
supplies,
feed
One of the more familiar Musical Ride formations is the “Dome,” once featured on the back of the Canadian fifty-dollar bill. The highlight of the Musical Ride is, without a doubt, the CHARGE when lances, with their red and white pennons, are lowered and the riders and their mounts launch into the gallop. The conclusion of the performance is the March Past performed to the strains of the RCMP’s Regimental March where the Musical Ride traditionally salutes the guest of honour. The RCMP Musical Ride tours throughout Canada, as well as international venues, performing at approximately forty to fifty locations a year between the months of May and October. Thirtytwo riders, thirty-two horses, a farrier, a technical production manager and three NCOs travel with the Musical Ride. 93 Main Street, Erin | 519-833-2002 | orderdesk@budsonfeed.com a trusted supplier of equine and we are also the name you know and trust for and Budson’s where we’re always happy to
Members of the Musical Ride are first and foremost police officers who, after at least two years of active police work, volunteer for duty with the Musical Ride. Most members are nonriders prior to their equestrian training with the RCMP; however, once they complete the courses of instruction, they not only become riders but ambassadors of goodwill. Working through a unique medium, they promote the RCMP’s image throughout Canada and the world. RCMP members only remain with the Musical Ride for three years which ensures an annual rotation of approximately one third (33%) of the riders. Today, in keeping with tradition, the Musical Ride is performed by a full troop of thirty-two riders and horses, plus the member in charge. The Musical Ride consists of the execution of a variety of intricate figures and cavalry drills choreographed to music. Demanding utmost control, timing and coordination, these movements are formed by individual horses and riders, in twos, fours and eights at the trot and at the canter. Months of training, practice and many kilometres/miles around the riding school make horse and rider one. The horses must not only appear in the Musical Ride, but on Parliament Hill, in parades, special events and have the ability to travel and adapt to different environments, not to mention, hours of petting and photo-taking that the horses must patiently endure.
MUSICAL RIDE TODAY’S
PAGE 6 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
As
pet food, birding, gardening, livestock
All are familiar international identifiers of our ‘True North Strong and Free’. The image of the red-coated Mountie in broad-brimmed Stetson hat is instinctively associated with Canada around the world. But there is more to the Mounties than just a romantic image. The stage was set in 1873 for a role that would intimately connect the Mounted Police and its members with the development of Canada as a great nation. From the beginning of its long history, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have served Canada and its people by establishing law and order in the frontier reaches of this vast nation. As the country grew in population and diversity, and its communities became more established, the Mounted Police adapted, ensuring peace and security for its citizens. Representing a colourful tradition and ceremony through the horse and the scarlet uniform, the RCMP created a spectacle known around the world as the Musical Ride. The Musical Ride provides Canadians from coast to coast, with the opportunity to experience part of our OF “THE RIDE” HISTORY
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 7
THE MAPLE
The RCMP horses are 16 to 17 hands high and weigh between 523 kg (1150 lbs.) to 635 kg (1400 lbs.). Up until recently they were 3/4 to 7/8 Thoroughbred, the stallions being registered Thoroughbred while the broodmares were part Thoroughbred. In March 1989, Black Hannoverian broodmares and stallions were purchased to improve the horses’ bloodlines. DIDYOU KNOW?
The Musical Ride was developed from a desire by early members of the North-West Mounted Police to display their riding ability and entertain both themselves and the local community. Considering that the original Mounted Police members had a British military background, it was inevitable that the series of figures they performed were traditional cavalry drill movements. These movements formed the basis of the Musical Ride. Although legend has it that the first Musical Ride was performed as early as 1876, the first officially recorded Musical Ride was performed in Regina under Inspector William George Matthews in 1887. The Musical Ride, consisting of twenty men, was put on public display for the first time in 1901. Over the years the popularity of the Ride has grown and it has become a familiar sight throughout most of the world.
ABREATHTAKINGLEAF.WILDERNESS.“MOUNTIE”.
THE EARLY YEARS
The first officers were appointed to the March West in September 1873 by Order of Council. More than half of the recruits had military experience–British and/or Canadian, usually in the militia and a few from the Canadian artillery in Kingston and Quebec such as the infamous Samuel B. Steele. Most recruits came from Ontario and Quebec with about a dozen from the Maritime provinces. Only two of the recruits had been police officers, 46 were clerks and 39 were tradesmen. Members were required to be able to read and write either in English or French. Some of the first recruits were bilingual and some only spoke French.
WHEN WAS THE FIRST MUSICAL RIDE?
WHERE WERE EARLY MEMBERS FROM?
The first recorded display of the NWMP riding performance, under the direction of Sergeant Major Belcher – and with no public in attendance – took place at Fort Macleod, Alberta in 1876. Training for and performing the Musical Ride provided relief for the officers from the daily drill periods and routine duties. The first time the NWMP performance was named the Musical Ride was at the Regina barracks in 1887. A total of five performances were given that year. There were no public displays for many years after this because regular police duties and the creation of new posts took precedence. The NWMP riding performance became a form of public entertainment in 1904. The troop trained under the direction of Inspector Frank Church and performed in Winnipeg, Brandon, Qu’appelle and Regina. In the first part of the 20th century, the Ride would occasionally perform publicly.
OF “THE RIDE” ORIGINS
PAGE 8 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
The Musical Ride originated from the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) as they made the Great March West across Canada in 1874. Although the original NWMP were scattered in small groups over tens of thousands of miles of unsettled prairies, they routinely practiced both mounted and foot drills. In this time, Sergeant Major Robert Belcher and other members who directed the mounted training had been members of the British Cavalry regiments and had experience in performing drill displays. Only after the men of the NWMP had formed their own band, did the riding displays take the form of the Musical Ride as we know it today. The performance of the drill movements accompanied by music helped the NWMP to entertain themselves during the evening or while off duty.
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 9 TED ARNOTT, Wellington-HaltonMPPHills www.tedarnottmpp.com519.787.5247 Welcome to the RCMP Musical Ride in Erin All of us are grateful to our extraordinary “Mounties.” I also want to express my sincere thanks to the Erin Agricultural Society for hosting this exciting event. Enjoy the Show! Thank you to all who have contributed to today’s event. Welcome, spectators. It’s with tremendous pride that Wellington County, welcomes both the RCMP Officers and theircompanions.equestrian This historic event will long be remembered. 190 St. David Street South, Unit A, Fergus 519.843.7344 | 866.878.5556 michael.chong@parlgc.cawww.michaelchong.ca Michael Chong Member of Parliament, Wellington - Halton Hills Welcome to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride hosted by the Erin Agricultural Society. Your source for quality journalism IN TANGIBLE.LOCAL.INVESTED.COMMITTED.ANYONLINEPRINTTIME Your Local Community Newspaper since 1968 www.wellingtonadvertiser.com TheWellingtonAdvertiser TheWellingtonAdvertiser WellyAdvertiser
The basis of the Ride’s movements stem from the ability to move a mounted cavalry regiment with some form of organization–e.g. single file, half sections and sections at all three paces. Since 1887, Musical Ride Instructors have developed and elaborated on these basic movements. The Ride varies from year to year as every new Instructor slightly alters the Ride movements and formations. former kingdom and state of Germany, along the coast of the Baltic and North sea, Belgium, Netherlands and France the west, Russia east, Switzerland south.
THE FORMATIONS Welcome back to the Town of Erin 2022 RCMP Musical Ride Are you thinking of Buying or Selling? It’s no spur of the moment decision; but don’t stall –call me today! I have an unbridled passion for helping my clients with their real estate needs, and with me at the reins, you’ll get top $$$ for your property. Your Trusted LOCAL Real Estate Advisor for In-Town and Country Properties Since 2005. 519-833-0569 Direct: 519-939-SELL (7355) jguagliardi@ jacquelineguagliardi.comroyallepage.ca
DRILL ORIGINS
Some of the Musical Ride movements are based on cavalry drills. These drills began to take shape during the eighteenth century when Frederick The Great of Prussia* (1712-1786) revolutionized cavalry tactics and trained his cavalry to a standard which became the envy and ideal of other European nations. The British Cavalry eventually incorporated these standards into its drills.
WAGONWHEEL FORMATION CHARGE FORMATION *Prussia:
on the
extended
PAGE 10 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
on the
on
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 11 MAZE FORMATION STAR FORMATION DOME FORMATION DIAMOND FORMATION Live Racing Junegrandriverraceway.comSeptember
PAGE 12 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE Erin Location: 9410 Wellington Rd 124, Erin, Corner of 124 & 24 ON, 519-833-9616N0B1T0 Cookstown Location: 4321 Line 13, Cookstown, Corner of 27 & line 13 ON, 705-458-0871L0L1L0 Stayner Location: 6837 ON-26, Stayner, Corner of 26 & center line rd ON, L0M 705-428-31321S0 New Follow UsSTEWARTSEQUIP.COM 519-833-9616 CookstownStayner 705-428-3132705-458-0871 Erin Stewart’s Equipment SALES - PARTS - SERVICE - RENTALS Serving the community for over 67 years! HATS OFF To the Erin Agricultruaral Society for successfully hosting the RCMP Musical Ride in Erin. Thank you for all your hard work and persistance in making this patriotic event happen.
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 13 From tools to paint, to lawn and garden supplies, to professional advice and everything in between, Headwaters Home Improvement Centre is your go-to for everything DIY! Drop by and we’ll help you get started! headwatershome.caOPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8A-5P 4 Shamrock Road, Erin 519-833-0303 PROUD TO SPONSOR THE RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
The horses’ saddle blankets bear the fused letters MP (RCMP’s registered brand) in the Force’s regimental colours of royal blue and yellow.
This performance will include dog agility, dog relay races, frisbee freestyle and long distance catches up to 150 feet plus!
The Ride will last approximately 25 minutes. The RCMP Musical Ride represents a colourful Canadian tradition. The troop of 32 horses and riders will perform a variety of cavalry drills choreographed to music. The Charge: last movement Final MeetSalute&Greet/Photo
Acknowledgement of Special Guests: Royal Canadian Legion, Erin Branch #242 Royal Canadian Legion Air Cadets; Ross Ferguson 242 Squadron
The horse, the scarlet tunic and the lance of the Musical Ride are among the last links with the Force’s early history.
DIDYOU KNOW?
1:40 p.m. The Fergus Pipe Band Founded in 1927, the Fergus Pipe Band has a long and proud history. Two founding members had served with the Seaforth Highlanders in the first World War and it was agreed to adopt the MacKenzie tartan that was worn by the Seaforth Highlanders. The band continues to wear the tartan today.
Session: RCMP Horses will line up in the Show Ring for photos and to meet the Public.
Introduction of Dignataries
PAGE 14 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE OF EVENTS SCHEDULE
2:00 p.m. The RCMP Musical Ride
Opening Salute: The officer in charge will come forward, salute and ask permission from the Guests of Honour, EAS Past Presidents: Duncan Armstrong, Douglas Delaney and Myrtle Reid, here to commence the Show.
2:50 p.m. RCMP Ride will form up and exit the Show Ring. After a 15 minute cool down period, the RCMP Horse Stables will be re-opened to the Public.
AFTERNOON PERFORMANCE
Mr. Ted Arnott, M.P.P. Wellington-Halton Hills Mayor Allan Alls, Town of Erin
1:55 p.m. O Canada: Sang by the Erin Young at Heart Singers
1:10 p.m. Dog Agility Show, presented by Four Paws Flying Entertainment
1:00 p.m. Opening Ceremonies & Welcome
6:00 p.m. Opening Ceremonies & Welcome
PERFORMANCE
7:50 p.m. RCMP Ride will form up and exit the Show Ring. After a 15 minute cool down period, the RCMP Horse Stables will be re-opened to the Public. Photos on pages 14 and 15 were taken by Tristan Clark Photography.
6:10 p.m. Dog Agility Show, presented by Four Paws Flying Entertainment. This performance will include dog agility, dog relay races, frisbee freestyle and long distance catches up to 150 feet plus!
MeetSalute&Greet/Photo
ANNOUNCER:KNOW?
Introduction of Dignataries
6:40 p.m. The Fergus Pipe Band Founded in 1927, the Fergus Pipe Band has a long and proud history. Two founding members had served with the Seaforth Highlanders in the first World War and it was agreed to adopt the MacKenzie tartan that was worn by the Seaforth Highlanders. The band continues to wear the tartan today.
Session: RCMP Horses will line up in the Show Ring for photos and to meet the Public.
ALL PROCEEDS FROM TICKET SALES WILL BE DONATED TO THE ERIN AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PERMANENTAWARENESSEDUCATIONAGRICULTUREANDBUILDING.
Mr. Ted Arnott, M.P.P. Wellington-Halton Hills Mayor Allan Alls, Town of Erin Acknowledgement of Special Guests: Royal Canadian Legion, Erin Branch #242 Royal Canadian Legion Air Cadets; Ross Ferguson 242 Squadron
Opening Salute: The officer in charge will come forward, salute and ask permission from the Guests of Honour, EAS Past Presidents: Duncan Armstrong, Douglas Delaney and Myrtle Reid, here to commence the Show.
6:55 p.m. O Canada: Sang by Jennifer Girvin, Past President, Erin Agricultural Society 7:00 p.m. The RCMP Musical Ride
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 15 EVENING
MR. JIM IRVINE
Members of the Musical Ride are first and foremost police officers. They all have at least two years experience in active police work before volunteering for duty with the Musical Ride. Surprisingly, most have no prior riding experience. DIDYOU
The Ride will last approximately 25 minutes. The RCMP Musical Ride represents a colourful Canadian tradition. The troop of 32 horses and riders will perform a variety of cavalry drills choreographed to music. The Charge: last movement Final
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Marketing your distinctive property requires exceptional care and commitment. Carriage Trade, Royal LePage’s exclusive luxury property marketing program, is designed to uniquely position your extraordinary property to attract and motivate the most qualiied high-end buyers. I set your property apart by telling its unique story through compelling visuals and persuasive copy, and deliver results through an extensive, tailored marketing plan that leverages exclusive promotional channels.
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PAGE 16 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
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Marketing your distinctive property requires exceptional care and commitment. Carriage Trade, Royal LePage’s exclusive luxury property marketing program, is designed to uniquely position your extraordinary property to attract and motivate the most qualiied high-end buyers. I set your property apart by telling its unique story through compelling visuals and persuasive copy, and deliver results through an extensive, tailored marketing plan that leverages exclusive promotional channels.
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RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 17 8186 Line 8, Kenilworth, Ontario Brad 519.323.6830 Paul 519.323.7443 Keep things running smoothly with routine pumping and cleaning. Because a Royal Flush beats a Full House! CALL US 519.833.9180TODAY! edpeavoy@live.ca | 519.855.9940 DON’TUNTILWAITIT’STOOLATE 67 Main St., Erin 519.833.9258 735 Tower St. S., Fergus 519.843.8887 VISIT OUR STORES OR SHOP ONLINE AT AND COLLECT IN-STORE! www.brightenuptoysandgames.ca www.brightenuptoysandgames.ca www.brightenuptoysandgames.ca brightenuptoysandgames connectequipment.com Chepstow 519.366.2325 Kitchener 519.696.2568 519.856.9512 Mildmay 519.367.2648 Innerkip 519.469.3883 ROCKWOOD 5205 3rd Line, Rockwood, ON WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS SALES PARTS SERVICE sales@connectequipment.com Powering the Present - Fueling the Future (888) 572-4131
Joined the RCMP in 2010. Musical Ride member since 2020. LANCEHORSE: Gelding born in 2014. Measures 17 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2022. SCOTTCONSTABLEPEEVER Joined the RCMP in 2010. Musical Ride member since 2020. LOSTHORSE:III Gelding born in 2014. Measures 17.2 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2021.
JERRYCONSTABLEHOANG Joined the RCMP in 2011. Musical Ride member since 2020. DANCERHORSE: Gelding born in 2006. Measures 16 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2011.
GERALDCONSTABLEDICAIRE
Joined the RCMP in 2015. Musical Ride member since 2022. KASPERHORSE: Gelding born in 2013. Measures 16.1 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2019.
In 1873, the horses of the North-West Mounted Police had to be rugged and tough since they were the primary mode of transportation for officers. Today an RCMP horse must be black, elegant, athletic with a good nature and enough heart and stamina to carry it through approximately one hundred performances of the Musical Ride. Typically the horses stand between 16 and 17 hands, though the largest horse currently on the Ride is 17.3 hands high.
The RCMP Breeding Farm in Pakenham is built on one hundred and forty hectares of lush Ottawa Valley land where the Remounts spend the first three years of their life, growing, developing and maturing before becoming Musical Ride horses and moving to the home of the Musical Ride, the Rockcliffe Park Equestrian Centre in Ottawa, Ontario.
JONATHANCONSTABLEPHARAND DAO Joined the RCMP in 2015. Musical Ride member since 2022. HORSE:LEXIE Mare born in 2014. Measures 16.3 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2021.
PAGE 18 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
THE
HORSESDIDYOUKNOW?
The names of the foals born in the same year begin with the same letter of the alphabet. The following year the next letter in the alphabet is used. Certain letters such as Q, X, U, Y, Z are not used as it would be too difficult to have proper names with those letters. Every year, the RCMP invites children to participate in a “Name the Foal contest” to help choose names for that year’s young horses. Information on this contest can be found on the RCMP website.
KYLECONSTABLEMACDONALD
The RCMP has bred and raised its own horses since 1939 and today the national police force is known to produce some of the finest horses in the country. The RCMP horse breeding program began at Depot Division, Regina, Saskatchewan, and was subsequently moved to Fort Walsh in 1942, the site of a North-West Mounted Police Fort built in 1875 in the beautiful Cypress Hills of south western Saskatchewan. Fort Walsh was home of the breeding program until 1968 when the operation was moved to Pakenham, Ontario about 50km west of Ottawa.
HARMONYHORSE: Mare born in 2010. Measures 16 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2017.
KIMCONSTABLEAYOTTE Joined the RCMP in 2014. Musical Ride member since 2020.
KATHERINECONSTABLEHANSEN Joined the RCMP in 2009. Musical Ride member since 2020.
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 19
ANNCONSTABLEGRIEVES Joined the RCMP in 2008. Musical Ride member since 2021.
JACQUELINECONSTABLETESSEL Joined the RCMP in 2007. Musical Ride member since 2019. NORDICHORSE: Mare born in 2016. Measures 16 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2022.
Women have made significant contributions to the RCMP over the years serving as wives, public servants, civilian members and as regular members. As early as the 1890s the Force employed females as matrons and gaolers to deal with female offenders and as part of the escort when female prisoners were moved from one place to another. In the early 1900s women filled positions such as fingerprint technicians and lab technicians. Dr. Francis McGill, often referred to as the “First Woman Mountie” was the Force’s first Honourary Surgeon appointed in 1946, but she had been the director of the Saskatchewan lab from 1922 to 1942 and associated with the Force for many years in the fields of medical science, forensic medicine and pathology. On May 23, 1974 RCMP Commissioner M.J. Nadon made an announcement that the RCMP would begin accepting applications from woman for regular police duties. This announcement opened up positions in areas which had previously been reserved for males. The first troop of 32 female regular members was Troop 17. Their engagements took place from locations across the country and they arrived at Depot, Regina, on September 18 and 19, 1974, to commence training. This first all female troop graduated from Depot on March 3, 1975.
WOMEN
MAPLEHORSE: Mare born in 2015. Measures 17 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2021.
IN
IDALIAHORSE: Mare born in 2011. Measures 16.2 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2017.
CAITLYNCONSTABLEMACKINNON Joined the RCMP in 2014. Musical Ride member since 2019.
GENDARMEHORSE: Gelding born in 2009. Measures 16.3 hands. With the Musical Ride since 2014. THE RCMP
PAGE 20 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8A-5P rapidrentalsinc.ca4 Shamrock Road, Erin 519-833-2242 BIG OR SMALL, RENT THE RIGHT TOOL TO MAKE THE JOB GO QUICKER AND EASIER! PROUD TO SPONSOR THE RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
The belt buckle and buttons eventually bore the NWMP badge. A holster, worn on the left side, carried a Deane and Adams revolver. A short Snider-Enfield carbine was carried and when mounted a saddle bucket was used on the rear right side of the horse. When the Force marched westward in 1874 lances were carried part of the way. A universal saddle, British Army pattern, was used until 1883 when it was replaced by the California Stock saddle.
A SPECTACLE KNOWN AROUND THE WORLD... THE UNIFORM
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
Sundries included a white haversack, white gauntlets and a brown leather belt.
The scarlet Norfolk jacket, simple and practical, without trimmings, was chosen so that the NWMP would be readily identifiable with the reputation of their British predecessors (rather than the Americans in blue uniform) thereby gaining the confidence and respect of the First Nations. The breeches or trousers were steel gray or flesh coloured, not blue like today. Black Wellington boots with spurs were worn on parade and long brown boots on duty.
The RCMP is recognizable throughout the world due to its unique uniforms. In the 1800s the uniform of the North West Mounted Police (NWMP) was similar to the one worn by the British Army.
The original uniform also included a pill box cap, which was worn tilted to the right side of the head and held on by a thin strap under the chin. These caps were made of blue cloth and were decorated with a ribbon of yellow or gold on the side and thin cord of the same colour on the top.
1886
1914 Musical Rides were cancelled in 1914 at the beginning of WWI, and not held again until 1920. The RCMP was formed as eastern and western federal police forces merged. RCMP headquarters moved to Ottawa in 1920.
1901 Performances resumed at Brandon, MB and Qu’Appelle, SK. Afterwards, they irregularly occurred at andexhibitions,agriculturalfairshorseshows.
Inception of the NorthWest Mounted Police (NWMP) where skilled riders were relied on to carry out police duties across the vast and sparsely inhabited prairies. 1876 First organized public performance of the tricks and exercises by Force Members in Fort Macleod.
wellington@ofa.on.cawww.wfofa.on.caWellingtonFederationofAgriculture™
THROUGH TIME RIDING
1908
The first time a Musical Ride was performed outside of Western Canada, in Quebec City, as part of the Tercentenary celebrations. The Prince of Wales was in attendance, and was the first member of the Royal Family to witness the ride.
WFA works for farmers’ economic, environmental and and social well-being. The WFA is the local County affiliate of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.
PAGE 22 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
1873
First riding school was established in Regina. During the winter of 1887 there were 5 public performances. The building burned down later that year and there is no record of another Musical Ride until 1901.
1930
1948 Musical Rides were once again organized, but not held every year.
The RCMP Musical Ride makes its inaugural appearance in Erin to a Sold Out Audience at the Erin Fairgrounds. The RCMP horses were stabled in Erin over four days.
FASHION For the way
1969 The Ride escorted the Queen from Windsor Castle to the showgrounds. This was the first time any troop other than the Household Cavalry had been permitted this escort.
2009 On May 16 the RCMP presents Queen Elizabeth II with the gift of George, a RCMP service horse. This is the fourth horse given to Queen Elizabeth II as a gift by the RCMP. She received 4 others in 2012, 2016, and 2019.
Open 7 Days a Week | 116 Main St. Erin | 519.833.2770 | www.hannahs.ca you live now!
The Ride made its first trip to England to perform at the Wembley Exhibition. In 1934, the Ride performed in the United States in New York City and Portland, Oregon.
The Queen was given Burmese, a RCMP service horse. She received 4 others in 1977, 1998, 2009, and 2016.
2002 Queen Elizabeth II presented the RCMP with the gift of Golden Jubilee, a horse from her own personal collection. This given in recognition of the Queen’s 50th year as reigning monarch.
Equestrian Training was mandatory for all recruits until 1966. Since then, only those assigned to the Musical Ride received equestrian training.
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 23
1968
2022 In honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee this year, 5 members of the world-famous Musical Ride, along with a former Musical Ride Riding Master, travelled to Windsor Castle to take part in Platinum Jubilee festivities on May 12-25 – A Gallop Through History – in a ceremonial capacity.
1939 New stables were built in Rockcliffe, Ontario as the Ride had become an established attraction. However future plans were put on hold as WWII broke out.
1961
2016
The Ride travelled by air for the first time when it performed in Bermuda.
1953 The Musical Ride returned to England. This was the first time since 1930. They performed for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
1966
The Force obtained ministerial authority to place the Musical Ride on a permanent footing. The final Ride Ottawa.exclusivelybeenandReginaorganizedwasatin1962hassincebasedin
1989 The Equitation Section offers free performances at its stables in Ottawa in June each year called the RCMP Sunset Ceremonies, which continue today.
PAGE 24 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE OF 2016 MEMORIES In 2016, the Erin Agricultural Society had the privilege of hosting the RCMP Musical Ride at the Erin Fairgrounds. Here are some of the many photos captured that day. Photos on pages 24 and 25 were taken by Tristan Clark Photography. 416-675-3993 ext 1-3440 info@longrunretirement.comReachnewheightsthisyearbygivingaretiredracehorseaforeverhome.AdoptfromLongRun. Consider donating to LongRun and sponsoring one of our permanent residents. 40 info@longr re re nt.com new he year by ng a r raceho a forever home. Ado fr Lon to spo rmane t
Proudly serving the community since 1948 Right Ridee On Ki nn n 4702 r udl ser ing e ight ide Thanks to the Erin Agricultural Society for bringing back the RCMP ride. There have been a few rough rides in our community over the last two years. Here’s to a Smooth Ride moving forward! Don and Dave Cheyne have made a huge impact in the community. The Hillsburgh Feed Mill will be truly missed. They have arranged for McKinnon’s to continue to supply their community with your favourite dog food, bird & grass seed products.
Proudly serving the community since 1948 Right Ridee On
McKi nnon T imber Mart
1 Trafalgar Rd. Hillsburgh, ON 519 855
McKi nnon T imber Mart
McKinnonTimberMart.ca4702
1 Trafalgar Rd. Hillsburgh, ON 519 855
Proudly serving the community since 1948 Right Ridee On Thanks to the Erin Agricultural Society for bringing back the RCMP ride. There have been a few rough rides in our community over the last two years. Here’s to a Smooth Ride moving forward! Don and Dave Cheyne have made a huge impact in the community. The Hillsburgh Feed Mill will be truly missed. They have arranged for McKinnon’s to continue to supply their community with your favourite dog food, bird & grass seed products.
Right Ride On Thanks to the Erin Agricultural Society for bringing back the RCMP ride. There have been a few rough rides in our community over the last two years. Here’s to a Smooth Ride moving forward! Don and Dave Cheyne have made a huge impact in the community. The Hillsburgh Feed Mill will be truly missed. They have arranged for McKinnon’s to continue to supply their community with your favourite dog food, bird & grass seed products. McKi nnon T imber Mart 1 Trafalgar Rd. Hillsburgh, ON 519 855
McKinnonTimberMart.ca4702
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 25
McKinnonTimberMart.ca4702
Thanks to the Erin Agricultural Society for bringing back the RCMP ride. There have been a few rough rides in our community over the last two years. Here’s to a Smooth Ride moving forward! Don and Dave Cheyne have made a huge impact in the community. The Hillsburgh Feed Mill will be truly missed. They have arranged for McKinnon’s to continue to supply their community with your favourite dog food, bird & grass seed products. McKi nnon T imber Mart
Proudly serving the community since 1948
McKinnonTimberMart.ca4702
1 Trafalgar Rd. Hillsburgh, ON 519 855
Proudly serving the community since 1948 Right Ridee On Thanks to the Erin Agricultural Society for bringing back the RCMP ride. There have been a few rough rides in our community over the last two years. Here’s to a Smooth Ride moving forward! Don and Dave Cheyne have made a huge impact in the community. The Hillsburgh Feed Mill will be truly missed. They have arranged for McKinnon’s to continue to supply their community with your favourite dog food, bird & grass seed products. McKi nnon T imber Mart 1 Trafalgar Rd. Hillsburgh, ON 519 855 McKinnonTimberMart.ca4702
• The relationship between the RCMP and the Royal Family dates back to 1904, when King Edward VII bestowed the title of Royal on the North-West Mounted Police, making it the Royal North-West Mounted Police. Since then, the organization—the Musical Ride, in particular—has shared a special bond with the Royal Family, specifically Her Majesty.
During Her Majesty’s reign, the RCMP has presented The Queen with eight horses in total: Burmese (1969), Centenial (1973), James (1998), George (2009), Elizabeth (2012), Sir John (2016), and Kluane and Darby (2019).
THE QUEEN HER MAJESTY
On May 7, 2022, in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee this year, 5 members of the world-famous Musical Ride, along with a former Musical Ride Riding Master, travelled to Windsor Castle to take part in Platinum Jubilee festivities – A Gallop Through History – in a ceremonial capacity. Her Majesty The Queen shares many special connections to the RCMP, including holding the honorary title of Commissioner-in-Chief of the RCMP since 2012. Her Majesty and the RCMP have shared a strong link over the years through the unique and long tradition of gifting horses, which dates back to 1969 when she was gifted the Musical Ride horse Burmese, which is her favourite. Her Majesty personally requested the presence of the Musical Ride in recognition of the long-standing relationship between The Queen and the RCMP. The events took place from May 12 to 15, during which the members performed in various ceremonial duties on former Musical Ride horses that were previously gifted to The Queen.
• The RCMP has had a direct and personal link to The Queen as our Commissioner-in-Chief and former Honorary Commissioner, and this special bond has been celebrated through the mutual giving and receiving of horses as gifts, which began in 1969 with Burmese.
DIDYOU KNOW?
• All horses gifted to The Queen have been bred, born and raised at the RCMP Breeding Farm and trained by the RCMP, with the exception of Burmese who was born and bred at the Fort Walsh Remount Branch.
A ROYAL OCCASION
Queen Elizabeth II riding Burmese at the Trooping of the Colour
PAGE 26 RCMP MUSICAL RIDE
Private inspection of the RCMP coronation contingent at the Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace on June 2, 1953
RCMP MUSICAL RIDE PAGE 27 www.experiencewellington.ca OMOfficial Mark of The Corporation of the County of WellingtonAlternate formats available upon request. Wellington County From backroads to small towns, uncover the treasures and adventures that await, right in your backyard. Discover your roots and explore the county’s heritage at the Wellington County Museum and Archives, a National Historic Site. Find local food, go on farm and food adventures, and savour local eats and drinks with Taste Real. Get inspired by unique downtown shops, experience the outdoors and find the perfect picnic spot.
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Welcome to the first edition of Erin Life. The collection of things to do and places to see is the gateway to the experiences of this community. No matter how many times you travel the country roads, there is always something new to discover and love. We are confident you’ll find inspiration to explore every season, every celebration, and every corner of the town – and receive a proper heartfelt welcome and unmatched hospitality while doing it. wish you safe travels and wonderful memories of your connection to our community.
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