The Golden Boy, a shining beacon atop the Manitoba Legislative Building, stands as a symbol of prosperity and enterprise, capturing the spirit of Manitoba with his radiant presence. Perched high above the city of Winnipeg, this iconic statue has been a focal point of the skyline since the early 20th century, inviting both locals and visitors to ponder its history and significance.
Conceived during the tumultuous times of World War I, the Golden Boy was the brainchild of British-born architect Frank Worthington Simon, who envisioned it as the crowning glory of the Manitoba Legislative Building. The statue was modeled after the Roman god Mercury, embodying the youthful energy and entrepreneurial spirit of Manitoba. With the province's burgeoning population and economic growth in the early 1900s, the statue was meant to represent the vibrant future that lay ahead.
In 1915, Simon commissioned Parisian sculptor Georges Gardet to bring this vision to life. Despite the challenges posed by wartime shortages, the statue was completed in 1918 and cast in bronze by the Barbedienne Foundry in France. After surviving several transatlantic crossings during the war, the Golden Boy finally arrived in Winnipeg in 1919, ready to take his place atop the Legislative Building.
The Golden Boy stands 5.25 meters tall and weighs 1,650 kilograms, with a torch in one hand and a sheaf of wheat in the other. These elements symbolize the light of knowledge and the bounty of agriculture, respectively. Facing north, the statue points towards Manitoba's rich natural resources, highlighting the province's role as a key player in Canada's economic landscape.
Crafted to reflect the ideals of youth and progress, the statue's design is a seamless blend of classical inspiration and modern ambition. Its gleaming surface, originally bronze but later gilded with gold leaf, catches the sun's rays, making it a luminous presence visible from afar.
Scavenger hunts in Winnipeg
Discover Winnipeg with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Winnipeg with your team!
Over the decades, the Golden Boy has undergone several restorations to preserve its brilliance. In the 1940s, it was painted gold, and by 1951, it received its first gilding with 23.5-carat gold leaf. The most significant restoration occurred in 2002 when the statue was lowered for a complete overhaul due to internal rust. During this time, it was displayed at the Manitoba Museum and The Forks, allowing the public a closer look at this beloved icon.
The restoration included regilding with 23.75-carat gold leaf and installing a new steel support post. The process was a testament to the community's commitment to preserving this symbol of Manitoba's heritage. The Golden Boy was rededicated by Queen Elizabeth II during her Golden Jubilee tour, marking a new chapter in its storied existence.
Visitors to Winnipeg should not miss the opportunity to explore the Manitoba Legislative Building, where the Golden Boy reigns supreme. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, designed in the Beaux-Arts style and filled with symbolic elements that reflect the province's history and aspirations.
Inside, the building houses the Legislative Chamber, where Manitoba's laws are debated and enacted. Guided tours offer insights into the building's design and the stories behind its many features, including the Grand Staircase and the Rotunda, adorned with murals and sculptures that celebrate Manitoba's cultural heritage.
The Golden Boy is more than just a statue; it is a beacon of hope and progress, a reminder of Manitoba's rich past and its promising future. Its presence atop the Legislative Building serves as a constant inspiration to strive for excellence and embrace the spirit of enterprise.
As you gaze upon this gilded figure, let your imagination take flight, and consider the countless stories it has witnessed over the years. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Golden Boy offers a glimpse into the heart of Manitoba, making it an essential stop on any tour of Winnipeg.
In conclusion, the Golden Boy stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Manitoba and its people. Its gleaming form is a symbol of resilience and ambition, capturing the essence of a province that continues to thrive and grow. A visit to Winnipeg would be incomplete without experiencing the majesty of this iconic figure, a true emblem of the Canadian spirit.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.