An overlooked clash occurred on Canadian territory just a year before Confederation, primarily remembered in Fort Erie, Ont. The Battle of Ridgeway, also known as Limestone Ridge, in 1866 marked the first instance of Canadian troops led by Canadian officers engaging in combat. This event also served as the inspiration for Decoration Day, a precursor to Remembrance Day observed in various parts of Canada annually.
Despite its historical significance, the nine individuals who lost their lives in the battle are not included in the Books of Remembrance, a renowned eight-volume collection on Parliament Hill commemorating soldiers who perished in service to Canada. A new petition is set to be introduced in the House of Commons, advocating for the recognition of these nine fallen soldiers and the numerous others who died in the aftermath of the battle.
Conservative MP Fred Davies, who represents the Niagara South riding encompassing Fort Erie, where the battle unfolded, emphasized the importance of honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend Canada. The Battle of Ridgeway, while not a clear victory for the Canadian forces, highlighted the valiant efforts of inexperienced volunteers facing off against seasoned Fenian raiders, many of whom were veterans of the American Civil War.
Historian Peter Vronsky, author of “Ridgeway: The American Fenian Invasion And The 1866 Battle That Made Canada,” commended the swift mobilization of hundreds of Canadians in response to the incursion. However, he noted the inadequacies in preparation and equipment that characterized Canada’s first modern battle.
Despite facing challenges, the Canadian forces engaged the Fenian raiders, leading to a battlefield defeat but ultimately compelling the invaders to retreat. Davies emphasized that the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought should not be diminished by the outcome, underscoring the significance of recognizing their contributions.
A memorial dedicated to the nine fallen soldiers was erected in 2016 on the battle’s 150th anniversary, yet efforts to have their names added to the Books of Remembrance have been unsuccessful thus far. Mayor Wayne Redekop of Fort Erie emphasized the pivotal role these individuals played in shaping Canada’s history and advocated for their rightful recognition.
Even preceding the official formation of Canada, the Books of Remembrance include soldiers who perished prior to Confederation, such as those in the War of 1812. Redekop, Davies, and Vronsky highlighted the Battle of Ridgeway’s impact on Confederation, serving as a pivotal moment in uniting Canadians.
The legacy of the Battle of Ridgeway lives on through regiments like the Queen’s Own Rifles and the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, with Vronsky describing it as a defining moment that tested and shaped Canada’s modern armed forces. Notably, Alexander Muir, renowned for composing “The Maple Leaf Forever,” fought in this battle, drawing inspiration from the maple leaf emblem of the Queen’s Own Rifles.
In conclusion, the Battle of Ridgeway holds a significant place in Canadian history, symbolizing a turning point where Canadians fought for their homeland and identity, marking a shift towards a distinct national allegiance.