Canadian Military History and Healthy Lifestyle in the Spotlight

Welcoming over 250 visitors on the weekend of September 5th and 6th, the Battle of Chateauguay site in Ormstown held another successful and educational commemoration day.

The Très-Saint-Sacrement municipality, Parks Canada and the CISS Montérégie-Ouest, hosted a commemoration event at the Battle of the Châteauguay National Historic Site on the weekend of September 5th and 6th. Located in Ormstown, the site honours the Battle of Chateauguay, which originally took place on October 26th, 1813. That day, the efforts of soldiers (led by Charles de Salaberry) resulted in the repelling of American forces. This year, organizers also used the memorial day to promote health—Parks Canada organized a 0-5-30 day to call to the public’s attention the importance of an active lifestyle.

Members of Parks Canada wanted to represent the Battle of Chateauguay, as well as provide something different to the event, which is where the 0-5-30 theme came into play. The numbers represent a smoke-free lifestyle, partnered with five fruits and veggies per day, accompanied by thirty minutes of exercise. To promote this idea, the organizers set up a smoothie-bike, inspiring people to work out for a thirst-quenching treat—these offerings were served alongside a traditional soldier meal, consisting of meat and vegetables, in honour of those that fought at the Battle of Chateauguay.

Visitors enjoyed a historical re-enactment courtesy of the Grays and Blues of Montréal, a group of professional actors who represented the role of Canadians in the American Civil War. Using black powder rifles, the Grays and Blues of Montréal had a special treat for guests, with the introduction of a cannon. Organizers offered up an exhibition of firearms, with both antique pieces and more modern ones. Sunday offered up guided bicycle tours of the battle site to guests, followed by an afternoon conference about the Voltigeurs, which were a Primary Reserve infantry regiment of the Canadian Forces.

While the day honoured the past, it was also modernized by the organizers’ focus on a healthy lifestyle, offering a little something for all who attended—from history buffs to families out for a day of historical education.