The neoclassical Manitoba Legislative Building in Winnipeg is one of the grandest and most mysterious parliament buildings in Canada. The architect selected in 1911 was a member of the secret order of Freemasonry which originated in the 14^th century stonemasonry guilds. The building is filled with symbolic references to their traditions. The two bronze bison flanking the grand staircase in the main entrance room are overlooked by the head of Medusa, an icon of protection, and Athena, goddess protector of cities. Around the building, Egyptian sphynxes, cattle skulls, and the repetition of 13 in measurements and number of objects all relate to principles of the Masons.

The building suffered setbacks: World War One, the opening of the Panama Canal, a government embezzlement scandal, the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919, and public resentment of the cost of building this extravagant structure. Finally, in 1919 the Golden Boy was placed atop the legislative dome, a north-facing statue sculpted in Paris. It survived German bombs and U-boats and is a testament of survival in the face of adversity. The building is a symbol of endurance, a legacy in stone.