Howick, Quebec, October 26, 2013 -- A ceremony was held today in Howick, Quebec, at the Battle of the Châteauguay National Historic Site to commemorate the great feat of arms on October 26, 1813 and the role played by soldiers in defending Canada against the United States of America during the War of 1812.
“It took the combined efforts of the militia together with Aboriginals and British military forces to push back the Americans. The Government of Canada is pleased to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of the Châteauguay,” said the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.
The Battle of the Châteauguay National Historic Site highlights an important page in the country’s military history and defence. It reveals the events of the battle, its participants, its heroes, and its place among the challenges of the War of 1812-1814. This site provides insight into the lives of the battle’s main actors and the civil society they were from, the training and military career of Charles-Michel de Salaberry, the political issues of the times, the strategies used, and the participation of Aboriginals.
“It is remarkable to see the number of partners who joined Parks Canada in preparing this memorable day, especially the Kahnawake Band Council, the Canadian Forces, the Jeanie Johnston Educational Foundation, the Montreal Commandery of the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem Knights, the Haut Saint-Laurent MRC, and the City of Salaberry-de-Valleyfield,” declared Minister Leona Aglukkaq.
Responsible for more than 20 sites commemorating the War of 1812, Parks Canada plays a leading role in bringing this decisive moment in the history of North America to life. Thanks to its work, Canadians can relive unforgettable moments within the landscapes, forts, and buildings of the War of 1812 in the national historic sites it manages.
For more information on this topic, please consult the information sheet available at www.parkscanada.gc.ca, under the heading Media Room.
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