Manitoba Legislative Building
Manitoba
The Manitoba Legislative Building, located in central Winnipeg, serves as the meeting place for the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba and houses offices for the Lieutenant Governor and Executive Council. Completed in 1920, this neoclassical Beaux-Arts structure stands 77 metres tall and is renowned for its Golden Boy statue, a gold-covered bronze figure inspired by the Roman god Mercury. Designed by architects Frank Worthington Simon and Henry Boddington III, the building features Manitoba Tyndall stone quarried locally. Its construction faced significant challenges including labour shortages during World War I, the Winnipeg General Strike, and a scandal involving stolen materials, which led to a royal commission and political consequences. The building is Manitoba's twelfth provincial heritage site and remains an imposing architectural symbol of Western Canada. Its richly decorated interiors and symbolic sculptures reflect the province's history and aspirations.
Plan your trip to Canada with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should consider touring the building during weekdays when guided tours are often available. Early spring to autumn offers the best weather for exploring the grounds and appreciating the building's exterior details. Advance booking is recommended for group tours. While entry is generally free, check for any special events or closures on the official website. Photography is permitted in most areas, making it ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Interesting facts
- •The Golden Boy statue atop the building is a gold-covered bronze figure modeled after the Roman god Mercury, symbolizing prosperity and progress.
- •The building is constructed from Manitoba Tyndall stone quarried near Winnipeg, known for its distinctive mottled appearance.
- •Construction delays were caused in part by the Winnipeg General Strike and a scandal involving stolen building materials by a contractor.
- •The building is Manitoba's twelfth provincial heritage site, recognized for its architectural and historical significance.
- •A statue of Queen Victoria originally stood on the grounds of the previous legislative building and was relocated to the front of the current grounds.
History
The current Manitoba Legislative Building is the third facility serving the province's legislature, replacing earlier structures used since the 1870s.
Construction began in 1913 after an architectural competition selected Frank Worthington Simon's design.
The building's completion was delayed by World War I, labour unrest, and a scandal involving stolen construction materials, leading to a royal commission and political fallout.
It was finally completed and partially occupied by 1919, with the Golden Boy statue installed that year.
The building has since stood as a symbol of Manitoba's growth and governance.
Place Guide
Golden Boy Statue1919
A gold-covered bronze statue representing the Roman god Mercury, symbolizing Manitoba's prosperity and progress, perched atop the building's 77-metre cupola.
Main Chamber1920
The single legislative chamber used by the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, reflecting the abolition of the Legislative Council in 1876.
Exterior Facade and Stonework1913-1920
Constructed using locally quarried Manitoba Tyndall stone, the building's neoclassical Beaux-Arts facade features intricate stone carvings and symbolic architectural elements.
Legislative Offices and Executive Council Chambers1920
Office spaces within the building accommodate Manitoba's Lieutenant Governor and the Executive Council, integral to provincial governance.
Contact
Phone: (204) 945-5813
