Administrative History:

The Manitoba Council of the Girl Guides of Canada was founded 1910 in Winnipeg to provide educational and recreational programming for girls. The 2002 mission conveys it is a Movement for girls, led by women. It challenges girls to reach their potential by teaching them to give leadership and service as responsible citizens. Several pilot programmes led to their inclusion at the national level, especially those designed for girls with disabilities, those in rural isolation, and early childhood education. Rallys and parades are held to commemorate special events. Competitions have been held among Guide companies for such awards as the Bessborough Shield (1935-[after 1972]) and the Thomson Toadstool Tribute (1961-ca. 1989). Manitoba was the first to develop First Aid work, receiving its initial certificate in 1911.

Mrs. F. A. McMillan organized the 1st Manitoba Guide Company. M. Yeomans in Brandon formed the first Guide Company in 1914, and held its first camp in 1916. The first Brownie Pack was organized in Winnipeg in 1921. Permanent camps were established at Ponemah, Lake Winnipeg in 1928 and at Caddy Lake in 1948. It is affiliated with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. In 1925 the Provincial Council was formed with Lady Aikins as Provincial Commissioner. The Girl Guides was founded in England in 1909 by Agnes Baden-Powell, sister of the Boy Scout Movement founder, Lord Baden-Powell. His wife, Olave Baden-Powell, was World Chief Guide until her death in 1977.