Kingston is known as a historical city with spectacular tourist attractions, like Fort Henry and its Sunset Ceremonies. The show is historic, meaningful, loud, and exciting for all ages.

Fort Henry was constructed during the War of 1812 to fend off approaching Americans from the Naval Dock yards and Canada’s main shipping route. It’s now one the biggest attractions in Ontario. “This is a real gem,” says Ron Ridley, curator for Fort Henry. “It is one of the last major fortifications the British built before Canada became a separate country. It was built in 1832-1837 and expanded in the 1840’s. The fort was built using the most modern technology of the time. It is a real honour to work in a place that is a symbol of the British army turning things over to Canada. It’s where the traditions of the Canadian army began.”

Historically this parade was known as a “Tattoo,” or “turn off the taps.” It was a symbol to the tavern owners to shut down so the men would know it was time to head back to garrison. The parade includes the Drums, The Drill Squad (representing infantry soldiers), the Artillery, and the “lights out” ceremony. “The Drums” is composed of the drummers, buglers and the fifers of a regiment. When in battle and in garrison, the drums and bugles were responsible for relaying commands. During the parade The Drums display traditional drill songs from Fort Henry’s earliest days.

Between the Drums and the Drill Squad, Fort Henry’s traditional mascot, David the 23rd is brought into the square. David is a white Saanen Goat who commemorates the services of the Royal Welch Fusiliers, who were stationed at the Fort from 1842-1843. David is given the full honours of a corporal and is tended to by the Goat Major.

After David’s visit, the Drill Squad who represent the infantry soldiers of 1867, perform the drills based on the original manuals and the latest technology in fire arms. The Snider Enfield Rifle was the first breach loading rifle, and therefore safer and faster to load. It was issued to the British Army in 1866. The drills used were used to manoeuvre troops on the field of battle around obstacles and to provide the most firepower along the front lines.

The last component of the parade is the Artillery. This display represents the men of the Royal Artillery who were stationed in garrison at Fort Henry to fire the large guns along the wall. The artillerymen are easy to spot because they’re running with giant cannons and they’re wearing Navy Blue tunics instead of the typical Scarlet. The artillery wore the navy blue tunics to hide the dirt that often flew while firing the cannons.

During intermission, children are allowed on the parade square to “join” the British Army. Sam, seven years old, going on eight (as he specified), says it was “Fun” and says he’ll participate again “maybe next year” but he won’t be joining the army anytime soon.

The ceremonies conclude with the sounding of “Lights Out.” A Bugle is played and the flag is lowered. To complete the evening there is a fireworks display that wouldn’t have happened while the fort was originally occupied, but who doesn’t love fireworks?

By: Steph Crosier