An overlooked clash on Canadian land just before the birth of the nation might not resonate beyond Fort Erie, Ont., but it holds significant historical weight. The 1866 Battle of Ridgeway, where Canadian soldiers led by Canadian commanders engaged in combat, stands as a pivotal event. This battle also served as the inspiration for Decoration Day, a precursor to Remembrance Day observed in various regions annually. However, the nine individuals who perished in this battle are absent from the Books of Remembrance, a compilation on Parliament Hill recognizing fallen Canadian soldiers.
A fresh petition poised for introduction in the House of Commons aims to include these nine individuals and the multiple casualties following the battle in the official list. Conservative MP Fred Davies, the initiator of the petition, underlined the importance of acknowledging those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of Canada.
The battleground at Ridgeway did not witness a clear victory for the Canadians. Inexperienced volunteers confronted Fenian raiders, predominantly American Civil War veterans. The Fenian Brotherhood, an Irish American group striving for Irish independence, sought to seize and hold parts of British North America to negotiate Irish autonomy with Britain.
In 1866, a large group of raiders crossed the Niagara River to target the Welland Canal, encountering approximately 800 Canadian volunteers from various regiments at Limestone Ridge near Ridgeway and Fort Erie. Historian Peter Vronsky highlighted the swift mobilization of Canadians from the Golden Horseshoe region, emphasizing the lack of preparation for what he termed Canada’s inaugural modern battle.
Despite facing challenges such as inadequate supplies and footwear, Canadian troops engaged the invaders in combat. Following a Fenian assault, the Canadians dispersed in a disorderly retreat. Nonetheless, the Fenians abandoned their incursion post-battle, retreating to the U.S. side of the Niagara River.
While acknowledging the defeat at Ridgeway, Davies emphasized the valor of those who perished defending Canada. A memorial commemorating the fallen soldiers was unveiled in 2016, urging for their recognition in the Books of Remembrance. Mayor Wayne Redekop stressed the pivotal role these individuals played in shaping Canada’s history.
Although transpiring prior to Canada’s establishment, the battle’s impact on Confederation remains evident. Several regiments involved in the 1866 battle continue to exist today, embodying the evolution of Canada’s armed forces. Notably, the battle influenced patriotic compositions like “The Maple Leaf Forever,” penned by Alexander Muir, who fought with the Queen’s Own Rifles during the Ridgeway conflict.
The battle at Ridgeway symbolizes a significant moment in Canadian history, signifying a transition from colonial subjects to self-sustained fighters defending their homeland. The battle’s legacy endures through the valor of those who fought, shaping the identity and spirit of Canada.
