The Wolseley Expedition 1870

Photo by Alan L Brown - Posted July, 2006

Photo Source - Collections Canada

Plaque Location

The District of Kenora
The City of Kenora
on the south side of Highway 17 in a pull-off just east of Keewatin

Coordinates: N 49 45.504 W 94 32.407

Plaque Text

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.

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Here are the visitors' comments for this page.

Posted March 14, 2012
Where can I find a list of names for the Wolsely 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

Posted September 5, 2011
My great grandfather, Billy Ross, (a black man) travelled to Lake of Woods w/the Wolseley Expedition. He became a prominent character the that area. Do have you record of him? (William Henry Ross 1848-1933)

Posted 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

Posted 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

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