The red serge of the Canadian Mounted Police Uniform is instantly recognizable around the globe as a powerful symbol of Canada. Officially known as the Review Order, but more commonly called the red serge, this dress uniform is reserved for ceremonial occasions and is famously worn by the RCMP Musical Ride. Its origins, however, are rooted in the practical needs of the early North West Mounted Police, reflecting a blend of tradition and functionality.
In 1876, the fledgling North West Mounted Police adopted a scarlet Norfolk jacket for its non-commissioned officers and ranks, mirroring the style of the British Army. These robust jackets were issued annually due to the wear and tear of horseback riding, though constables were responsible for their upkeep. Initially, uniforms included close-fitting grey or beige pantaloons paired with black riding boots. Headwear was initially a pillbox hat, quickly deemed unsuitable for the harsh prairie winters. A white helmet with a brass spike and white gauntlets were also briefly part of the ensemble.
By the time of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897, the uniform had undergone significant revisions. The Norfolk jacket was replaced with a more tailored tunic made of the same scarlet serge, now featuring practical pockets. Riding breeches evolved to dark blue with prominent yellow cavalry stripes running down the sides. A practical leather belt with a holster, a brown lanyard, and a bandolier for ammunition completed the more functional look.
The early 20th century brought further changes. In 1901, the iconic broad-brimmed Stetson hat, along with brown gloves and gauntlets, and brown Strathcona boots – items worn by Canadian cavalry in the South Africa War – replaced the earlier helmet, pillbox hat, white gauntlets, and black boots. These changes reflected a move towards a more distinctively North American and practical uniform. Collar badges were approved in 1903, and the acronym NWMP (North West Mounted Police) first appeared in brass on the shoulders. Following King Edward VII’s bestowal of the “Royal” title in 1904, the gorget patches and shoulder straps were changed to royal blue, and the acronym became RNWMP.
Interestingly, until 1905, the revolver was carried on the left side. This shifted to the right side with the adoption of Sam Browne equipment, and the brown lanyard was replaced with a white one. By 1917, the blue breeches with yellow stripes lost their close fit, adopting the jodhpur style that remains in use today.
A major organizational change occurred in 1920 when the Royal North-West Mounted Police expanded to federal policing across Canada, becoming the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This transition brought a new badge and the initials RCMP on metal shoulder badges. By 1974, these badges became bilingual, including the French acronym GRC.
The year 1974 also marked a turning point for women in the force. When women were first permitted to join the RCMP, their Review Order uniform consisted of a cloth cap, scarlet tunic (without pockets), a blue skirt, and black shoes, worn with a plain white turtleneck blouse. However, in 1990, the Canadian government mandated that female RCMP members would wear the same dress uniform as their male counterparts, signifying a move towards equality within the force.
Reflecting ongoing reconciliation efforts, the RCMP has, in recent years, approved the wearing of Indigenous cultural items of honour and distinction with the uniform. Indigenous RCMP officers can now wear their hair in a braid with both operational and ceremonial uniforms, and may also incorporate the Métis Sash and Ribbon Skirt.
Inclusivity has also extended to faith-based accommodations. Turbans were first introduced to the RCMP uniform in 1989 to respect the rights of Sikh members. The RCMP later issued the dastaar in 1991 as a standardized turban, updated in subsequent years for improved quality and comfort. In 2017, the hijab was also officially introduced as a uniform option, further diversifying and modernizing the Canadian Mounted Police uniform.
The Canadian Mounted Police uniform, particularly the red serge, has evolved significantly from its practical beginnings. It remains a potent symbol of Canadian identity, adapting to reflect changing times, societal values, and a commitment to inclusivity and representation within its ranks.
Alt Text Examples for Placeholder Images:
url_placeholder_image1.jpg: “An RCMP officer in the iconic red serge uniform mounted on a horse, representing the traditional image of the Canadian Mounties.”url_placeholder_image2.jpg: “A visual timeline showcasing the evolution of RCMP uniform headwear, from the early pillbox hat to the Stetson and modern faith-based head coverings.”url_placeholder_image3.jpg: “A historical photograph depicting RCMP officers in various iterations of the uniform throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, illustrating the uniform’s gradual changes.”url_placeholder_image4.jpg: “A close-up view of Indigenous cultural items, such as a braid, Métis sash, and ribbon skirt, respectfully integrated into the RCMP uniform, symbolizing reconciliation and inclusivity.”
