War Life of 1759 Reenacted!

The title of today's event was Women in the Seven Years' War. "Discover the daily lives of 18th century women during times of war. Visit military camps and meet more than 100 hundred reenactors to discover the history of the siege of Quebec and the participation of women in this conflict." It was that and so much more.

There were interesting men to meet as well including some well informed Privateers!
Some background about these important Champs de Bataille (battlefields). The Battle of the Plains of Abraham (13 September 1759), was a pivotal moment in the Seven Years’ War and in the history of Canada. A British invasion force led by General James Wolfe defeated French troops under the Marquis de Montcalm, leading to the surrender of Québec to the British. Both commanding officers died from wounds sustained during the battle. The French never recaptured Québec and effectively lost control of New France in 1760. At the end of the war in 1763 France surrendered many of its colonial possessions — including Canada — to the British.


Like many wars, the women are invaluable resources. We had the opportunity to talk to, among others, a washerwoman, an innkeeper, a lacemaker, and very importantly, an ammunitions preparer. "Talk to experts about the history and people who lived in 1759 and 1760. Let yourself be touched by the story of these courageous women and the men they supported. A real dive into history! An enriching, unique, and memorable experience."
We even received a lesson on 18th century makeup. You never know what one will discover in Québec.

Medicine was comically explained by this Augustine Sister. She was a riot. Though she spoke only in French, we so got it!



Characters where everywhere, sharing their role in the events of the time.

These were the British, the victors. The gentleman to my far left is a professional reenactor for Parks Canada in Halifax. He was a great history teacher for us.






"The impossibility of a retreat makes no difference
in the situation of men resolved to conquer or die;
and, believe me, my friends,
if your conquest could be bought with the blood of your general,
he would most cheerfully resign a life
which he has long devoted to his country."
-General James Wolfe

"I am happy that I shall not live to see
the surrender of Québec."
- General Louis-Joseph de Montcalm
History brought to life by passionate participants, dressed in period costumes, is my favorite way to learn. This exceptional event will be truly unforgotten.

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