Discussions

After six months of Aldermanic lobbying spearheaded by complaints of Brandon citizens over roadways alternatively opened for water main and sewer line installation between Pacific and Victoria Avenues, and from Thirteenth Street to Fourth Street ended when Brandon’s waterworks system was placed into service.  
 
This occasion was recorded in print:  
 
“Without ostentation, engines in the pumping house were started making the great pumps to start work. A filter operated allowing the Assiniboine water to be distributed through the mains to all parts on the city its first water that will in future be the supply. Hydrant after Hydrant was tried, to the delight of the mayor, councillors and Fire Brigade. One or two waterline breaks were discovered, and promptly repaired.”  
 
The next day saw pipes burst in two more places: the cause was blamed on the force of the water, which flooded the streets until it was shut odd at the pumping station. For several weeks’ elated citizens, the ones who had agreed to system connections freely enjoyed their new luxury.  
 
The Corporation announced a schedule of water rates, “calculated to encourage the use of water”:  
 
An annual $8.00 charge for a dwelling place containing up to six rooms,  
A $12.00 fee for a six room boarding house, and  
 
A hotel levy of $2.00 for each room.  
 
Bathrooms cost extra - $4.00 in private homes,  
 
$8.00 in boarding houses, and hotels.  
 
In the Palace Hotel, 113 - 8th Street, near Rosser Avenue a public “Bagnio” was available for Ladies on Tuesdays, and Fridays between ten o’clock in the morning till four o’clock in the afternoon, the cost was twenty five cents a bath, cash.  
 
Gentlemen’s ablutions could be enjoyed fifteen hours daily, and until midnight on Saturdays.  
 
Note: A “Bagnio” is a Public Bath House.  
 
Source: Brandon a City, by G. F. Barker.