The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) dress uniform, often referred to as the “red serge,” is instantly recognizable worldwide as a powerful symbol of Canada. This distinguished uniform, formally known as Review Order, is reserved for special occasions and is famously worn by the members of the RCMP Musical Ride. While it projects an image of grandeur and tradition, the red serge uniform has surprisingly humble and practical origins in the North West Mounted Police.
The story of the Rcmp Uniform begins in 1876, with the adoption of a scarlet Norfolk jacket for non-commissioned officers and ranks. Inspired by the British Army’s attire, this practical jacket was designed for durability in the saddle. Reflecting the wear and tear of frontier life, regulations stipulated annual issuance of new red serge jackets, though constables were responsible for their upkeep.
Initially, the uniform included close-fitting grey or beige pantaloons paired with sturdy black riding boots. Headwear consisted of a pillbox hat, quickly deemed unsuitable for the harsh Prairie winters. To complete the ensemble, a white helmet featuring a brass spike and white gauntlets were also introduced, showcasing early attempts to balance practicality with a sense of formal authority.
From Norfolk Jacket to Modern Tunic
The RCMP uniform underwent significant transformations as the force evolved. By 1897, marking Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, the Norfolk jacket was replaced by a more refined tunic made of similar scarlet serge. This new tunic was better tailored and incorporated practical pockets, signaling a move towards enhanced functionality and a sharper appearance. The riding breeches transitioned to dark blue, adorned with broad yellow cavalry stripes along the outer leg, adding a distinct visual element. Practicality was further emphasized with the addition of a leather belt with holster, a brown lanyard, and a bandolier for carrying ammunition – essential gear for officers on duty in the vast Canadian landscape.
The early 20th century brought further modernization. In 1901, the cumbersome helmet and pillbox hat were replaced by the iconic broad-brimmed Stetson hat. This practical and distinctly Western headwear was adopted along with brown gloves and gauntlets, and brown Strathcona boots, echoing the attire of Canadian cavalrymen who had served in the South African War. This shift marked a significant departure from traditional military-style uniforms towards a more uniquely Canadian identity.
Further refining the uniform, collar badges were officially approved in 1903. The acronym NWMP (North West Mounted Police) in brass first appeared on the shoulders, establishing a clear insignia of the force. Following King Edward VII’s bestowal of the “royal” title in 1904, the uniform was updated again. Gorget patches and shoulder straps were changed to royal blue, and the “R” was added to the acronym, resulting in the new designation RNWMP (Royal North-West Mounted Police).
An interesting detail of the early uniform was the placement of the revolver. Until 1905, it was carried on the left side. This changed with the adoption of Sam Browne equipment, which necessitated moving the holster to the right side. Simultaneously, the brown lanyard was replaced with a white one, reflecting subtle but continuous adjustments to uniform regulations.
By 1917, the blue breeches with yellow stripes underwent another transformation. The close-fitting style was replaced with the jodhpur appearance that remains a recognizable feature of the RCMP uniform today, enhancing both comfort and mobility.
Transition to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Bilingual Insignia
The year 1920 marked a pivotal moment in the organization’s history. As the Royal North-West Mounted Police expanded its role to federal policing across Canada, it officially became the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This name change was accompanied by a new badge, and the initials RCMP began to appear on metal shoulder badges, solidifying the new identity. Reflecting Canada’s bilingual nature, by 1974, these shoulder badges were updated to become bilingual, incorporating the French initials GRC (Gendarmerie Royale du Canada).
Integrating Women into the RCMP Uniform
A significant milestone in the RCMP’s history was the inclusion of women in 1974. Initially, the regulation Review Order uniform for women officers differed considerably from the male uniform. It comprised a cloth cap, scarlet tunic (without pockets), a blue skirt, and black shoes. The tunic was worn with a plain white blouse featuring a turtle-neck collar.
However, in 1990, the Government of Canada announced a landmark change: women members of the RCMP would wear the same dress uniform as their male counterparts. This decision marked a significant step towards gender equality within the force, ensuring that female officers were visually represented in the same iconic uniform.
Honouring Indigenous Culture and Faith Diversity
In recent years, reflecting a commitment to reconciliation and inclusivity, the RCMP has made provisions to incorporate Indigenous cultural items of honour and distinction into the uniform. Indigenous RCMP officers are now permitted to wear their hair in a braid with both operational and ceremonial uniforms. They are also authorized to wear the Métis Sash and the Ribbon Skirt, acknowledging and respecting Indigenous cultural heritage within the framework of the RCMP uniform.
Recognizing the importance of religious accommodation, the RCMP has also addressed faith-based headdresses. In 1989, turbans were introduced to the uniform regulations to respect the rights of Sikh members. The RCMP later issued the dastaar in 1991 as a standardized turban, improving upon previously approved versions in terms of quality, durability, and comfort. Further expanding religious inclusivity, the RCMP-issued hijab was introduced as a uniform option in 2017, ensuring that Muslim women officers could also adhere to their faith while in service.
The RCMP uniform, particularly the red serge, is more than just attire; it is a living symbol of Canadian history, evolution, and commitment to service. From its practical beginnings as the uniform of the North West Mounted Police to its modern, inclusive form, the RCMP uniform continues to represent trust, authority, and the diverse fabric of Canadian society.
