The Wolseley Expedition 1870
Text from the plaque
In August, 1870, a force of British regulars and Canadian militia comprising some 1,200 men commanded by Colonel Garnet Wolseley, arrived in this area en route to the Red River to establish Canadian authority within the present province of Manitoba. The previous year the Hudson's Bay Company had agreed to transfer control of its western territories to Canada, and some local inhabitants, fearing loss of their lands and interference with their mode of existence, had set up a provisional government under Louis Riel to press their claims on the Dominion. The expedition had disembarked at Prince Arthur's Landing on Lake Superior and travelling by land and water reached Fort Garry on August 24.
Transcribed from the marker, not summarised.
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The District of Kenora
The City of Kenora
On the south side of Highway 17
in a pull-off just east of Keewatin
Also recorded for this place: Collections Canada
N 49 45.504 W 94 32.407
Recorded July 2006. Check current access before visiting.
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Visitors' notes
December 28, 2018
I am told that my great grandfather David Love came west with the Wolseley Expedition and then received a land grant in the Gladstone, MB area. I would like to know if anyone can verify this, and if they know what capacity he served in. Any info would be appreciated. Candace Love
July 2, 2012
My great grandfather, James Henry Cadham, was a member of the expedition either as a carpenter or as a member of the militia. He became a contractor / architect in Winnipeg, I'd like to know if he was a member of the militia and if so, which regiment. Thank you. Fred Cadham
March 14, 2012
Where can I find a list of names for the Wolseley Expedition. My g-grandfather William Harrison joined in Ontario and was discharged in Winnipeg. I would like to know which Battalion he was with. He then signed on to the North West Mounted Police. Would appreciate a link to a name list if there is one online. Thanks Valerie
August 17, 2010
Hi Gord, Yes this James Robertson was a member of the Red River Expedition, and he is my great grandfather. He is listed as number 1328, single, a PRIVATE, Provisional Battalion of Rifles, Company 4, from Augusta, Ontario, age 23. He was given a "Bounty Warrant" of 160 acres and was discharged at Winnipeg, it appears to be on November 1874. If you want to try tracing the Bounty Warrant it is number 1210. If you want more information on this man you can email me at Wendy Tapping
January 9, 2010
Was James Robertson part of this expedition? He became a farmer in the Gladstone and Marquette Mb. areas. Thank you, Gord Robertson