The position of mayor was created in 1873 following the incorporation of
Winnipeg (renamed from
Fort Garry), now the provincial capital of
Manitoba. From 1874 to 1955, the mayor of Winnipeg was elected for one year only; then, from 1955 until 1972, the term of office was extended to two years. The election of the first
City Council was held on 6 October 1971 and the new
City of Winnipeg was amalgamated on 1 January 1972. Thereafter, the new Council consisted of 50 councillors—elected from each of Winnipeg's
wards—and 1 mayor, who is elected by the city as a whole. From 1972 onward, the mayor held office for a term of three years. Finally, in 1998, the term of office was extended to four years. ==List of mayors==