Calgary and the iron stove

Sub-Inspector Ephraim A. Brisebois was among the first nine officers appointed to the newly formed North West Mounted Police on September 25, 1873.

In 1875 Brisebois, as instructed built a NWMP post on the Bow River. As was fairly common practice in those days, forts were named after the Commanding Officer in Charge. Brisebois named the fort after himself.

Brisebois commandeered the only iron stove and cooking facility for himself. The men were so upset that they took up a petition against their CO.

When A/Comm Macleod learned what Brisebois had done, he rode hard from Fort Macleod to "Fort Brisebois" to straighten out this mess.

In seeing the site of this new fort, it reminded him of the land around Castle Calgary on the Isle of Mull. He had the name of this fort changed from Fort Brisebois to Fort Calgary. Brisebois was eased out of the Force.

Had it not been for the iron stove, the vibrant City of Calgary on the banks of the bow river would be the City of Brisebois.

Just think, people would be coming from all over each year to visit the world famous "Brisebois Exhibition and Stampede". The Saddle Dome would be filled with fans cheering for the "Brisebois Flames." The "Brisebois Stampeders" would be trying to win that elusive Grey Cup.

Thank God for the iron stove.

Today, in northwest Calgary, there is a street named "Brisebois Drive" in his honor.

A/Comm Macleod gave the men Hell for signing a petiton which was illegal in a para military organization.