September 2, 2015 – Québec – The National Battlefields Commission
The National Battlefields Commission invites the public to its traditional historic day—this year on the theme of Women and Soldiers on the Plains—from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 13, at and around Martello Tower 1 on the Plains of Abraham. What were the wartime roles played by the women who left traces of their passage on the Plains in bygone days? Meet historical figures and learn more about some of the roles they played in troubled times: cantiniere, nun, prostitute, munitions factory worker, and Army Show singer. Enjoy historical displays, artifacts, and activities and soak up the period atmosphere as historical re-enactors let the cannons fly. This free event is a mix of history and entertainment sure to delight both young and old!
Highlights
- What did peasant women do while their husbands were off fighting the enemy during the siege of 1759? Get a glimpse of their activities, including beeswax candle making, baking bread on an open fire, aboriginal weaving, and wool dying techniques.
- During the siege of Québec, the British bombarded the town all summer long. But one building was spared: the Ursuline Convent. Governor Murray and an Ursuline sister will be on hand to tell their story.
- What kind of care did the injured receive? An Augustine sister will explain some of the treatments and grueling operations patients underwent.
- The Plains of yesteryear were governed by military order and discipline. Captain LeBreton is looking for good candidates to serve as soldiers in the Martello Towers. Have you got what it takes to be a new recruit? Discover the punishments meted out to the men who frequented women of “ill repute.”
- A woman worker at the Arsenal, the cartridge factory that operated on the Plains from 1884 to 1938, will try to convince you to sign a petition calling for better working conditions for the women at the plant.
- During the Second World War, shows were put on to entertain the soldiers. A singing duo will take you back in time as they perform songs from 1945–1950. Maybe you’ll get your shot at a bit of fame and glory as part of the Army Show?
- Delve into vestiges of centuries past in the company of an archeologist. Activities include a workshop, quiz, artifacts, and an excavation plot.
- Activities, period atmosphere, and much more!
- Information: 418-649-6157, information@ccbn-nbc.gc.ca
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Contact
Nathalie Allaire
Outreach and Media Relations Officer, Communications Division
The National Battlefields Commission
418-648-4801, nathalie.allaire@ccbn-nbc.gc.ca
