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In 1948, Gérard Bourbeau founded the Association des Zouaves de Charlesbourg, where he rose through the ranks to become the regiment’s lieutenant-colonel. However, “Compagnie 33” still needed equipment from the village cadets, who provided drums and bugles. As a result, the paramilitary training offered to boys could continue from adolescence into adulthood.
1920 - 1954

Religious life in Charlesbourg

Just as it was in so many Quebec communities, life in Charlesbourg in the early 20th century was shaped by Catholic religious life. In Trait-Carré, Charlesbourg’s historic centre, stands Saint-Charles-Borromée Church, which was built in 1830. From 1904 to 1962, the Marist Brothers were responsible for educating young boys at the Académie de Charlesbourg. A corps of Zouave cadets was formed in 1923, followed by adult Zouaves in 1948. The Zouaves were present at all public processions, underlining their allegiance to the Pope. The Société d’histoire de Charlesbourg invites you to immerse yourself in the past.

The Zouaves cadets

Auteur inconnu In 1948, Gérard Bourbeau founded the Association des Zouaves de Charlesbourg, where he rose through the ranks to become the regiment’s lieutenant-colonel. However, “Compagnie 33” still needed equipment from the village cadets, who provided drums and bugles. As a result, the paramilitary training offered to boys could continue from adolescence into adulthood.
Chronoscope Can you identify any of the people in this image? (unilingual French for a limited time) Source: Société d’histoire de Charlesbourg Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Société d'histoire de Charlesbourg - Date: 1929