True and Fascinating Canadian History
Vet of the Month: May 2009
O.61 Inspector, NWMP William Piercy
RCMP Vets. Saskatchewan
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 also recognizes the research undertaken by family members who seek information related to RCMP relatives. Amateur historians 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 reinvigorate 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 O.61 Inspector William Piercy, NWMP whose great-great-great grand-daughter sought information about his career.
J. J. Healy
Retired RCMP Reg.#33412, Maxwell Moritz shared the following short story about O.61 Inspector William Piercy,...
“About six or seven 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.
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 other 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, AB but it does not show the particular cemetery.
I believe though that he is in the Beechmount Cemetery. His grave is in Section OC, Block 0018, Plot 0018.”
RCMP Veteran Maxwell Moritz
Addendum: Historian and RCMP Vet Jack White added that on March 13, 1893 Inspector Piercy went to an Edmonton doctor complaining of feeling unwell. When the doctor exited the room, Insp. Piercy picked up a shotgun and committed suicide.
Apparently Insp. Piercy had been criticized by the Commissioner for the way in which he had investigated a murder case -- it may have provoked his action?
We dedicate the Vet of the Month May 2009 story to the Piercy family. I too share the sadness by which Insp. Piercy died. Inspector Piercy was buried in Edmonton, AB
My thanks to all friends such as Maxwell Moritz who are interested in genealogy which helps keep the history of the Force and memories of its members vivid and meaningful.
Reporting from Fort Healy
J. J.Healy
May 23, 2009
