An Act to Incorporate the City of Winnipeg was passed by the Manitoba Legislature on November 8, 1873. Winnipeg was officially a city, though not without event.After considerable debate, the original bill for incorporation was thrown out. At issue was civic taxation and the financial burden this would impose on major property holders. Dissatisfied with this outcome, supporters of the bill waylaid Dr. Bird, Speaker of the House, and poured a pail of hot tar over his head and shoulders.
An excerpt from the City of Winnipeg Archives' Pathways, their first online exhibit.
