A lesser-known conflict occurred on Canadian soil a year before Confederation, mainly remembered in Fort Erie, Ontario. The Battle of Ridgeway, also known as Limestone Ridge, in 1866 marked the first instance of Canadians fighting under Canadian leadership. This battle also inspired Decoration Day, the precursor to Remembrance Day, observed in parts of Canada.
Despite the significance of the Battle of Ridgeway, the nine casualties from the conflict are not included in the Books of Remembrance on Parliament Hill. A new petition is being introduced in the House of Commons to add these fallen soldiers, along with others who perished post-battle, to the official list.
Conservative MP Fred Davies, representing the Niagara South riding encompassing Fort Erie, is championing the petition. Davies emphasized the importance of recognizing those who gave their lives in defense of Canada. The Battle of Ridgeway saw Canadian volunteers facing off against Fenian raiders, experienced fighters from the American Civil War seeking Irish independence from British rule.
Historian Peter Vronsky highlighted the unpreparedness of Canadian troops during the conflict, emphasizing the chaotic nature of Canada’s first modern battle. Despite facing a battlefield defeat, the Canadians managed to repel the Fenian invaders, showcasing resilience in defending their homeland.
A memorial honoring the nine fallen soldiers from the Battle of Ridgeway was erected in 2016, yet their names remain absent from the Books of Remembrance. Local efforts in Fort Erie to include these names have been unsuccessful so far, with Mayor Wayne Redekop stressing the importance of acknowledging their role in shaping Canada’s history.
The legacy of the Battle of Ridgeway extends beyond the conflict itself, influencing the trajectory towards Confederation. The battle united Canadians in defense of their homeland, symbolized by Alexander Muir’s composition of “The Maple Leaf Forever” following his participation in the battle. The significance of this battle in solidifying a distinct Canadian identity is echoed in the ongoing presence of regiments like the Queen’s Own Rifles and the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry.
The Battle of Ridgeway stands as a pivotal moment in Canadian history, underscoring the transition from colonial subjects to defenders of their own community and nation.