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Prince Edward lived in Quebec City from 1791-1793, stepping into the centre of Lower Canadian society. Moving easily between circles of French Canadiens, English elites and American Loyalists alike, Edward symbolized the Crown as the scaffolding in which modern Canada would emerge. Touring much of Lower Canada, Prince Edward resided in the heart of the ancient capital of New France (holidaying at nearby Montmorency Falls).
Seigneur Louis and Françoise-Catherine de Salaberry and their family befriended Prince Edward and his French mistress Julie de St.Laurent. All of the de Salaberry sons became protégés of the Prince (Edward and Julie stood as godparents to the youngest, Édouard-Alphonse), who nurtured their military careers. Tragically, all the de Salaberry sons except Charles-Michel died serving the Crown during the Napoleonic Wars.
Charles-Michel de Salaberry saw action during the War of 1812, leading the Voltigeurs Canadiens in a stunning victory against an American invasion force at the Battle of Châteauguay (October 26th 1813). As Duke of Kent, Edward made sure that his protégé ("The Hero of Lower Canada") was recognized for his accomplishment.
Seigneur Louis and Françoise-Catherine de Salaberry and their family befriended Prince Edward and his French mistress Julie de St.Laurent. All of the de Salaberry sons became protégés of the Prince (Edward and Julie stood as godparents to the youngest, Édouard-Alphonse), who nurtured their military careers. Tragically, all the de Salaberry sons except Charles-Michel died serving the Crown during the Napoleonic Wars.
Charles-Michel de Salaberry saw action during the War of 1812, leading the Voltigeurs Canadiens in a stunning victory against an American invasion force at the Battle of Châteauguay (October 26th 1813). As Duke of Kent, Edward made sure that his protégé ("The Hero of Lower Canada") was recognized for his accomplishment.
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Honouring Prince Edward in Quebec
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Quebec communities visited by Prince Edward, Duke of Kent:
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Plaque outside the Quebec City residence of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent. The dates of residency should read 1791-3.
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A section of Kent Gate, built in the 19th century to commemorate the Duke of Kent's residence in Quebec City. The construction of the gate was partially funded by the Duke's daughter, Queen Victoria. Photograph by author, 2016.
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