An overlooked conflict that occurred on Canadian territory a year before Confederation may not resonate widely with Canadians beyond Fort Erie, Ontario, but it holds significant historical significance. The 1866 Battle of Ridgeway, also known as Limestone Ridge, marked the first instance of Canadian troops led by Canadian commanders engaging in combat. This battle also inspired Decoration Day, a precursor to Remembrance Day observed in certain regions annually. Despite this, the nine individuals who lost their lives in the battle are not included in the Books of Remembrance, a compilation on Parliament Hill commemorating soldiers who perished in service to Canada.
A new petition is being prepared for submission in the House of Commons with the aim of adding the names of the nine fallen soldiers and the numerous casualties following the battle to the official list. Conservative MP Fred Davies, who is championing the petition, emphasized the importance of recognizing those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation.
The Battle of Ridgeway was not a clear victory for Canada, as inexperienced volunteers confronted Fenian raiders, many of whom were veterans of the American Civil War. The Fenian Brotherhood, an Irish American group seeking Irish independence from British rule, attempted to achieve this goal by invading and occupying parts of British North America. In 1866, a group of raiders crossed the Niagara River with intentions to attack the Welland Canal but were met by approximately 800 Canadian volunteers at Limestone Ridge near Ridgeway and Fort Erie.
Historian Peter Vronsky, author of the book “Ridgeway: The American Fenian Invasion And The 1866 Battle That Made Canada,” highlighted the rapid mobilization of Canadian forces, despite their lack of preparation for what he described as Canada’s first modern battle. While the Canadian troops faced challenges such as inadequate supplies and ammunition, they engaged the invaders in combat, leading to a somewhat disorganized retreat following a Fenian assault. Despite the battlefield setback, the Fenians withdrew after the battle, retreating back to the U.S. side of the Niagara River.
Davies emphasized that the defeat at Ridgeway does not diminish the bravery of those who fought to protect Canada from invasion. He stressed the importance of honoring their memory for their dedication to defending the nation.
A memorial was erected in 2016 to commemorate the nine soldiers who perished at Ridgeway. Efforts by Fort Erie officials to have their names included in the Books of Remembrance have so far been unsuccessful, despite the town’s persistent lobbying. The significance of the battle extends beyond its military outcome, as it is believed to have influenced the formation of Canada and the hearts of its people.
Several regiments that participated in the 1866 battle, such as the Queen’s Own Rifles and the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, continue to exist today, representing the enduring legacy of that conflict. Alexander Muir, known for composing “The Maple Leaf Forever,” fought in the Battle of Ridgeway and drew inspiration from the maple leaf symbol of the Queen’s Own Rifles. This battle marked a turning point where Canadians fought for their local communities first and allegiance to the crown second.