Vet of the Month: May 2009
It is well known that there is intense interest in our society regarding genealogy. Many genealogical groups assist individuals in discovering more about a family’s lineage. Many families are intent on establishing family trees and researching the richness of the narratives of their ancestors. We have a need to feel connected to our past and we are willing to spend many hours of effort uncovering our roots.
The Vet of the Month story for May 2009 pays respect to the search undertaken by motivated family members who seek out information related to Mountie relatives. These dedicated amateur historians help keep alive the memory of deceased members of the NWMP/RNWMP/RCMP. Their inquiries cause us to re-examine parts of our past which may be otherwise overlooked or forgotten. The involvement of modern generations in the investigation of the life and times of deceased members allows us to recall their stories and reinvigorates our own sense of appreciation regarding the contributions made by those who have gone before us.
In particular, this month we would like to pay tribute to Reg.#0.61 Inspector William Piercy, NWMP whose great-great-great grand-daughter sought information about his career. Retired member Maxwell Moritz (#33412) shares the following story:
“About 6-7 years back, I assisted a member of Redcliff Detachment do some research on William Piercy. The Redcliff member had been contacted by a great-great-great grand-daughter of Piercy who asked for any info on the then Sgt. Piercy of the NWMP.
Piercy had been stationed at Medicine Hat Detachment in the late 1870's / early 1880's. Upon his transfer from Medicine Hat, he had been presented with a pocket watch by the citizens of the Hat in appreciation for his good work while there. His grand-daughter had come into possession of the pocket watch.
I was able to confirm that Piercy was indeed stationed at the Hat and had been a Sgt. at the time. Later he took part in quelling the Riel Rebellion. I then tracked him to Edmonton where he was an Inspector. Very tragically, in 1893, while in a doctor's office, using a shotgun, he committed suicide.
Piercy is of some significance to the Force's history as photos of him as a Sgt. have been published over the years in books about the history of the Force. Photos show him with individuals such as Chief Sitting Bull and others.
Using the City of Edmonton Cemetery list that is available on the internet, I have been able to confirm that Piercy is buried in Edmonton, but it does not show the cemetery. I believe though that he is in the Beechmount Cemetery. His grave is in Section OC, Block 0018, Plot 0018. Perhaps one of our contacts in Edmonton could check the site and its condition.”
We dedicate the story of the Vet of the Month May 2009 to the Piercy family. We thank all those interested in genealogy for the support that they offer in keeping the history of the Force and its members alive and meaningful.
Addendum: Historian and RCMP Vet Jack White adds that on March 13, 1893 Inspector Piercy went to an Edmonton doctor complaining of feeling unwell. When the doctor exited the room, PIERCY picked up a shotgun & shot himself in mouth.
Apparently Insp. Piercy had been criticized by the Commissioner in handling of a murder case which may have provoked this action.
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