On behalf of The Fort Garry Horse Regimental Association, I would like to express concern over the recent decision at city hall to permit the construction of a new apartment complex at the site of the Upper Fort Garry Gate. Not only is this the only remaining site of the birthplace of Winnipeg, but is the symbol of our storied regiment, The Fort Garry Horse, Winnipeg's only cavalry unit. The gate forms the centerpiece of our unit's crest and is an integral part of our unit's identity.

I was disappointed that the Free Press editorial board caved in on the development of the Upper Fort Garry site and agreed with the proposed development. I was hoping that the paper would be more concerned about having a beautiful park and tourist attraction at the site across from the railway station and The Forks. The site was important because the fur trade in the area took place at the mouth of the Assiniboine, not at Lower Fort Garry, which was more of a depot for goods going up and down the lake. During the Riel Resistance in 1869-70, the Métis supporters of Louis Riel took it over and maintained military control of the settlement during that winter. Riel himself lived there as did many of his men. After Manitoba joined Confederation, the provincial cabinet used the chief factor's house for cabinet meetings. My great-great uncle, Robert A. Davis, was the second premier. He used to walk from his hotel at Portage and Main down the street through the Upper Fort Garry Gate to these meetings. It is unfortunate that the wall extending from the gate blocks the view of this historic site from people passing by on Main Street as does the nearby gas station. If this area were open without buildings, it would be a wonderful way to access the Assiniboine River. Why can't they put their new apartments on an ugly vacant lot and make Main Street a beautiful access to the river and to The Forks?