Origins of the Royal Canadian Regiment in Fredericton

This virtual exhibition highlights the role of the Infantry School Corps (later known as the Royal Canadian Regiment) in South Africa and beyond. in 1883, an Act of Parliament authorized the formation of infantry companies at Fredericton (NB), St Jean (PQ) and Toronto (Ont). Known originally as The Infantry School Corps, their primary role was for training the Canadian Militia. Officers of the Fredericton Garrison occupied the building that is now the Fredericton Region Museum, while soldiers lived in the stone barracks on Queen Street. The Regiment garrisoned there from 1884-1905 and 1907-1914.

The Regiment saw service in the North-West Resistance (1885-1898), the Klondike (1898-1900), and South Africa (1899–1900).

For South Africa, a 2nd (Special Service) Battalion was formed, and “A” Company in Fredericton was part of this force. The 3rd (Special Service) Battalion was also raised to garrison the Citadel in Halifax.

During the First World War (1914-1918), The Royal Canadian Regiment gained 22 Battle Honours in France and Flanders.

During the Second World War (1939-1945), it was part of the famous “Red Patch” 1st Canadian Division and saw action in Sicily, Italy, and Northwest Europe. For their valour they receive 27 Battle Honours.

Featured here are artefacts from the collection of the Fredericton Region Museum that document this service. To learn more stop by the museum for a visit!

We are grateful to the financial support provided by the City of Fredericton, as well as Province of New Brunswick in making this display possible.