This was the view in October 1784 of the Citadel on Cape Diamant looking from the Plains of Abraham. In the background, we see the fortifications that Governor Beauharnois had commissioned to be entirely covered in masonry before Québec City fell to the British. Like the walls, most of the locals were born under the French Regime, but now lived under the British flag.

1781 - 1786

Québec City as seen by James Peachey

The 18th century seemed to be brimming with military men skilled with a paintbrush. Among them was James Peachey, a British officer and land surveyor. During his three stays in the new British colony, he produced numerous works that capture Québec City and its surroundings. These works depict a peaceful town, recovering from several years of war. The majority of the town's inhabitants are of historic French origin, and they live side by side with the small British elite which is taking root in the heart of the town. Discover this era by delving into Peachey’s watercolours!

View of the Citadel of Québec

James Peachey This was the view in October 1784 of the Citadel on Cape Diamant looking from the Plains of Abraham. In the background, we see the fortifications that Governor Beauharnois had commissioned to be entirely covered in masonry before Québec City fell to the British. Like the walls, most of the locals were born under the French Regime, but now lived under the British flag.

Chronoscope Can you locate this perspective on the map? (unilingual French for a limited time)

Depicted period: 1784

Source: Library and Archives Canada Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Acc. No. 1989-217-3 - Date: 1784-10-29

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