An obscure conflict that occurred on Canadian territory a year before Confederation may not resonate widely among Canadians beyond the town of Fort Erie, Ontario. However, the Battle of Ridgeway, also known as Limestone Ridge, in 1866 holds significant historical importance as it marked the first battle fought by Canadian troops under Canadian leadership. This event also served as the inspiration for Decoration Day, a precursor to Remembrance Day still observed in certain regions annually.
Despite its historical significance, the nine individuals who lost their lives in the Battle of Ridgeway are not included in the Books of Remembrance, a collection on Parliament Hill memorializing soldiers who died in service to Canada. A new petition, set to be presented in the House of Commons, aims to have these nine men and the numerous others who perished in the aftermath of the battle added to the list.
Conservative MP Fred Davies, representing the Niagara South riding which encompasses Fort Erie, where the battle unfolded, emphasized the importance of recognizing those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of Canada. The engagement was not a resounding victory for the Canadians, as inexperienced volunteers faced off against seasoned Fenian raiders, most 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,” praised the quick mobilization of Canadian forces but highlighted their lack of preparedness for what he described as Canada’s first modern battle. Despite facing challenges such as shortages of supplies and ammunition, the Canadians engaged the invaders at Limestone Ridge, leading to a battlefield defeat but ultimately thwarting the Fenian incursion.
While acknowledging the defeat at Ridgeway, Davies emphasized the valor of those who fought to defend Canada against the invaders, underscoring the need for their recognition. A memorial commemorating the nine fallen soldiers was erected in 2016, yet efforts to include their names in the Books of Remembrance have not been successful thus far.
The Battle of Ridgeway, although predating the formation of Canada as a nation, is seen as a pivotal event that influenced Confederation. Participants and observers believe that the battle played a role in shaping the identity of Canada, with regiments involved in the 1866 conflict still active today. Notably, figures like Alexander Muir, who fought in the battle and later wrote “The Maple Leaf Forever,” symbolize the patriotic spirit that emerged from this historic event.
Overall, the Battle of Ridgeway holds a significant place in Canadian history, illustrating the early struggles and sacrifices made by Canadians in defense of their homeland and laying the foundation for the nation that Canada would become.