Mounties Ride On, But Just At Police Stables

For most Americans, the most recognizable Canadian symbol isn’t Parliament Hill, but instead a square-jawed man in a scarlet coat.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police - or Mounties, as they are affectionately known - are living links to Canada’s frontier past as well as dignified symbols of its present.

You can learn more about the Mounties’ unique character at the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Stables in the Ottawa suburb of Rockcliffe.

Alas, one of the first things you’ll discover is that the Mounties’ name is actually a misnomer these days, for only a small portion of the force ever sits astride a horse. While a few horses are kept for ceremonial duties, and others are part of a touring equestrian troupe known as the “Musical Ride,” most Mounties rely on more modern forms of transportation.

But a visit to the stables nevertheless gives a fascinating introduction to the world’s bestknown police force. Here you can tour the stables that house nearly a hundred magnificent black thoroughbreds, and see the indoor and outdoor arenas where the horses are trained for the Musical Ride, a performance that has its origins in 19th century cavalry drills.

You’ll also learn how the Mounties trace their history to 1874, when a police force was sent to oversee the settlement of the Canadian West. Charged with keeping the peace and protecting the native peoples, the Mounties were given scarlet tunics reminiscent of the uniforms of the British army.

Over a century later, the RCMP continues as Canada’s federal police force, and in the sparsely populated western provinces and territories their peace-keeping role is much the same as it was in the beginning.

The RCMP Stables are located at St. Laurent Boulevard and Sandridge Road in Rockcliffe, Ontario; (613) 993-3751. Free tours are given Monday through Friday, June through September.