Talk:Saint-Eustache, Quebec

Latest comment: 15 years ago by 192.216.61.102 in topic Untitled

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The battle of Saint-Eustache was opposing the Patiots, led by Doctor Chenier and the British troops, occupying Lower Canada at the time. The battle was not balanced where the British circled the few Patriots remaining taking cover in the Church (located on the shores of "riviere des milles isles". The british army set the church on fire after shooting cannon balls at the front wall (still visible today). The Patriots surrendered and were shot, hung and displayed in the village to scare the population about standing up against assimilation of french culture in Quebec to British imposed culture. There is a famous case that took place in the last night of the battle where a french teenager, not involved in the rebellion, was standing on the porch of his parents house and was shot by a British soldier for absolutely no reason. The case went to trial and was turned in favor of the british.

In a way, this unknown history fascinates americans. French speaking people left in Lower Canada by the French (France) had to find ways to protect their culture (still fighting today). Had Saint-Eustache been located closer to America, a sense of protection might have occured.

In this year, 1837, other battles took place (St-Denis, St-Charles - along the Richelieu river on the south shore of Montreal). British had weapons and troops and could crush any resistance. The army was cruel and without mercy.

Many quebecers feel today the need to separate from the English Commonwealth. Separation would be an answer to the events of 1837, where fathers of the quebec culture were assaninated.

Tourists are invited to visit Saint-Eustache to view the Church and what British troops did to it. When touching the walls of the church, people can still feel vibes of this famous night of 1837. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 192.216.61.102 (talk) 16:37, 20 August 2009 (UTC)Reply