December 29: Crystal Casino; Harry Kirk tends city hall.

December 29, 1989 - The Crystal Casino opens on the 7th floor of the Hotel Fort Garry. It was Canada’s first year-round government operated casino. It closed in 1997.

December 29, 1842 - Harry Kirk is born in Oxford, England. Disbaled after losing his fingers and part of one hand to frostbite, he was one of the first ten employees hired by the the City of Winnipeg. In his 28 year career he served simultaneously as the city messenger, city hall and police station caretaker, cleaner at the market building and city bell ringer.

For more on city hall's "Mr. Everything" read my piece in today's Free Press !

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