Difficulties be damned

Formed in 1685 the King’s 8th Regiment of Foot saw much action in North America. The regiment fought during the American Revolution and the War of 1812, earning the battle honour “Niagara” for their service in the War of 1812.

Before the War of 1812, the regiment fought extensively in Europe before coming to North America in 1768. The King’s 8th performed garrison duty throughout British North America before the American Revolution. During the failed American attack on Quebec in 1775, the regiment fought to defend the area and was one of the first regiments to launch counterattacks into New York. After their service in the American Revolution was complete, the King’s 8th went back to Europe in 1785.

King's 8th Officer

By 1793 revolutionary France declared war on Great Britain and the King’s 8th were soon dispatched to the Netherlands  During the Napoleonic Wars, the regiment saw action in the Netherlands, Spain and Egypt, among other areas. In 1808 the regiment was moved to Canada, and with the outbreak of the War of 1812, they fought at Ogdensburg, Fort George, York, Sackets Harbor, Stoney Creek, Chippawa, Lundy’s Lane and the Siege of Fort Erie, just to name a few. Elements of the King’s 8th also participated in a treacherous winter march from New Brunswick to Quebec City, a distance of 350 miles.

After the War of 1812, the King’s served in a number of different locations before fighting in the Indian Rebellion and the Second Afghan War. Throughout the regiment’s hardships they could always look to their regimental motto, difficulties be damned, for inspiration.

With April fast approaching there are a number of events to mark on your calendar. Two events in particular are the War of 1812 School of the Soldier on April 13 and 14 at Fort George, and the Bicentennial Commemoration of the Battle of Fort York on April 27th. Don’t miss out on these great events!