London in Middlesex County, Ontario — Central Canada (North America)

The British Garrison in London

Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., May 1, 2009

1. The British Garrison in London Marker

Inscription. In one of several concentrations of British troops in Upper Canada various infantry and artillery units were stationed on a military reserve here during the mid-19th century. The garrison, which contributed significantly to the economic growth of London, was first established in 1839 to guard against border raids following the Rebellion of 1837. Although its troops were withdrawn in 1853 to serve in the Crimean War and military duties were assumed by pensioners, it was re-occupied by British regulars in 1862 when the American Civil War posed a threat to the province. To help repulse an expected invasion of Fenians, militant Irish sympathizers, the garrison remained active until 1868. Six years later, this part of the old military reserve was set aside as Victoria Park.

Erected by Ontario Heritage Foundation, Ministry of Culture and Communications.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Forts and Castles • Government & Politics • Industry & Commerce • Military • War, US Civil. A significant historical year for this entry is 1839.

Location. 42° 59.399′ N, 81° 14.966′ W. Marker is in London, Ontario, in Middlesex County. Marker is in Victoria Park, about 200 feet ESE of the intersection of Central Avenue

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and Clarence Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: London ON N6A 3G7, Canada. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. London Women's Monument (within shouting distance of this marker); The 1st Hussars (within shouting distance of this marker); "Holy Roller" (within shouting distance of this marker); 50th Anniversary of the Allied Invasion of Normandy (within shouting distance of this marker); London South African War Memorial (about 180 meters away, measured in a direct line); Crimean War Cannons (about 180 meters away); Veterans' Garden (approx. 0.3 kilometers away); Veterans' Memorial Carillon (approx. 0.3 kilometers away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in London.

La Garnison Britannique à London Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., May 1, 2009

2. La Garnison Britannique à London Marker

French language version on opposite side.

Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., May 1, 2009

3. The British Garrison in London Marker

Looking east across Victoria Park.

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on May 13, 2009, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania. This page has been viewed 3,867 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on May 13, 2009, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.