Northwest Mounties

“Sally Smith” by Matt Baker; Northwest Mounties #2 (February 1949) pg. 3

“Northwest Mounties” refers to the Royal Northwest Mounted Police (RNWMP), which was a predecessor to the modern Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The RNWMP was established in 1873 and was responsible for maintaining law and order in the western territories of Canada, including what are now the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan.

“Sally Smith” by Matt Baker; Northwest Mounties #2 (February 1949) pg. 5

The RNWMP played a significant role in the Canadian West during its early days. They were tasked with enforcing Canadian law in the sparsely populated and often lawless regions. This included dealing with issues like the fur trade, indigenous relations, and maintaining order in rapidly growing settlements. Their iconic red serge uniforms, Stetson hats, and horse-mounted patrols contributed to their distinctive image. The organization eventually evolved into the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 1920, which continues to serve as the federal and national law enforcement agency in Canada to this day.

“Sally Smith” by Matt Baker; Northwest Mounties #2 (February 1949) pg. 8

“Northwest Mounties #2” was published by St. John in February 1949. The cover art is by Bob Lubbers. The inside story titled “Mounties Crack the Mystery of the Bullet Proof Blonde” featuring Corporal Jim Duncan and Sally Smith hasn’t aged well from a modern perspective, but the artwork is by the famed Matt Baker. Renowned for his character Phantom Lady, his distinct style, characterized by detailed and expressive depictions of women, has certainly contributed to the appeal of his artwork.