Fort Saint-Jean: the little-known site of a historic turning point
Did you know that the integration of the Province of Quebec into the American Revolution was played out in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, in 1775? Indeed, the Haut-Richelieu was the scene of a "courageous and tenacious" resistance that ultimately led to the defeat of the American soldiers.
Faced with 2,000 men advancing over arduous terrain and swamps, the garrison of Fort Saint-Jean held out during the siege, which lasted a total of 45 days. All the while, the American army was steadily gaining strength.
A historical summary written by Museum of Fort Saint-Jean states that "the reasons for the failure are many, but the long siege of Fort Saint-Jean certainly played an important role, delaying the American army's plan to conquer Canada."
All the more so since the American invasion was an influential historical milestone in the formation of the country, bringing together French-speaking and English-speaking citizens.
Immerse yourself in history
Inside the museum, it's easy to become fully immersed in this historic moment. Near the Richelieu River, while the surrounding buildings have retained their authenticity of yesteryear, you can imagine the ships approaching, the fort's defenders, under the command of Major Preston, stubbornly resisting American bombardments and assaults.
Not only can you imagine it on site at any time, and learn more about it in the exhibition "D'assiégé à assaillant : le fort Saint-Jean et l'invasion du Canada", but on August 16 and 17, you'll also be able to experience it life-size. To mark the 250th anniversary of the siege of Fort Saint-Jean, over 500 re-enactors from Canada and the United States will recreate this little-known yet decisive event in our history. A free, immersive experience for the whole family!
