HISTORY

1RCHA’s A, B Batteries celebrated 150th anniversary in 2021

December 30, 2022

MCpl Brandon Liddy

Andrew Oaken
Stag Special

The medallion is in good shape — there are no obvious scratches, chips, nicks or dents.
It’s probably composed of copper or bronze. The surface has some discoloration, but that’s expected after 100 years. It’s notable the initials of the last three British monarchs are included on the medallion.
While our museum has no documentation on the 50th anniversary, we do have this small medallion. Indeed, it connected nicely with the 150th anniversary in 2021.
A and B Batteries are the original components of 1RCHA, yet their significance is profound. From these small beginnings came something big, including 150 years of regimental history.
The origins mark the founding element of the Canadian professional Army, Canada’s first total force units, and the first military arms school.
The original batteries foster pride in their Regimental roots in Kingston and Quebec City, as well as pride in our pre-Confederation and post-Confederation Gunner history.
It fosters pride in our leadership and courage displayed by the Great Gunners. It advances the spirit de corps in 33 communities across Canada with an RCA presence. It also fosters pride at the RCA Museum and Home Station at CFB Shilo.
In 2021, the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery celebrated its 150th anniversary of the founding of A and B Batteries. At the RCA Museum, we were proud to celebrate this milestone.
To mark the occasion, the museum created two temporary exhibits on the 150th anniversary. Moreover, museum staff are building a traveling exhibit with a focus on the Gen Strange medals and an in-house, temporary exhibit on the 150th anniversary of the RCA.

Staff-sergeants and sergeants from A Bty in Kingston, Ont., pose for a group photograph circa October 1887.

Current A Bty hone their M777 skills during Ex FROZEN GUNNER. Photo Jules Xavier/Shilo Stag

MGen Strange was the first CO with A Bty when it was located at Kingston, Ont.

MCpl Brandon Liddy
MCpl Brandon Liddy