History Browser

Across the British army’s route lay the Klipriversberg Range. In its midst was the position of Doornkop, which the Boers had occupied in force. In preparation for a direct assault, the commander of the cavalry division gave the task of crossing the river and gaining a foothold on the other side to the 1st Mounted Infantry Brigade, which included the Royal Canadian Dragoons and the Canadian Mounted Rifles.

With its obvious strategic location, Signal Hill became the site of harbour defences from the 18th century through the Second World War. The last battle of the Seven Years' War in North America was fought here in 1762.

While serving in South Africa, Canadians quickly developed their own attitudes towards British command and military procedures. Canadian officers became disparaging of their British counterparts for lacking initiative and common sense.

Students are provided with information on the Rideau Canal National Historic Site of Canada, to understand why it has recently received designation as a world heritage site

This historic site celebrates the rich communications and military history of Signal Hill and sits amidst a spectacular view of St. John's and the sea.

After 1815, the trend to fighting in a more European fashion in North America favoured the United States over Britain. The huge American population could produce vast numbers of militia and volunteers, and these would be most useful in a war fought out in the open.