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November 30, 1871, is an important date in the history of Québec City. On this day, the British authorities ordered the withdrawal of the garrison that had watched over the town for 112 years. The British troops paraded one last time, before boarding ships in the port. Many residents subsequently called for the destruction of the old ramparts, which they considered a nuisance to traffic.
1840 - 1873

Changing of the guard in Québec City

After the American revolutionaries’ 1775 attack on Québec City, the British authorities reinforced their military presence in the city. Considered to be a strategic site to defend, Québec City was home to large British garrisons. For decades, the daily lives of the city’s residents were marked by this heavy military presence. Things changed, however, with the signing of the Treaty of Washington on May 8, 1871, which settled several disputes between Britain and the United States. An era of peaceful political relations began, and most of the British garrisons left Québec City with a grand ceremony. Relive the events through the period’s artworks!

Departure of the 60th Regiment

Image taken from the Opinion publique, November 30, 1871, p. 580. November 30, 1871, is an important date in the history of Québec City. On this day, the British authorities ordered the withdrawal of the garrison that had watched over the town for 112 years. The British troops paraded one last time, before boarding ships in the port. Many residents subsequently called for the destruction of the old ramparts, which they considered a nuisance to traffic.
Chronoscope What comments or thoughts does this piece evoke for you? (unilingual French for a limited time) Source: Ville de Québec Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Date: 1871