Origins of the RCMP

Policing the Railway

In 1882, the CPR reached Maple Creek. By late 1883, it had progressed to the summit of the Rockies. For the railway to be completed on schedule, it was essential for law and order to be maintained amongst the thousands of CPR labourers. Living conditions in construction camps were rough. Gambling and drinking provided the main source of entertainment. Unfortunately, they were often the cause of violence and disorder.

The Force organized a detachment, under Inspector S.B. Steele's command, to follow the construction and enforce the Act for the Preservation of Peace in the Vicinity of Public Works. This Act prohibited gambling and drinking within a 10-mile radius of the railway line.

The Force also encountered its first experience with labour unrest during this period. In 1883, the CPR reduced its engineers' and firemen's wages resulting in the first serious strike. Reinforcements were rushed to Moose Jaw and Broadview to guard railway property from unruly strikers, and provide protection for those who refused to leave their jobs. In 1885, Beaver Crossing became the site of another serious strike. Twelve hundred men walked off the job over a pay dispute. Inspector Steele, armed with a rifle, rose from his sick bed to confront a mob of strikers intent on preventing the arrest of a violence-inciting leader. After the Riot Act had been read, he warned the strikers force would be used, if necessary, to preserve peace and order.

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