During the period spanning 1713 to 1758, the area which would later become the Atlantic provinces of Canada was a warzone. The territory was contested by both French and English alike. Warships, privateer vessels, as well as coastal trade vessels and fishing chaloupes were common-place sights in these waters.
After the loss of most of their holdings in Newfoundland and Mainland Nova Scotia (Acadia), the French Monarchy recognized the dire need to protect the most valuable asset left to them in the region - The island of Isle Royale. In order to defend the newly established colony and its rich fishing grounds, the decision was made to construct the fortified town of Louisbourg on the eastern shores of the island.
Closest to the fishing grounds and ice free year round, English Harbour was the ideal site. After the movement of French civilians and troops from Placentia, Newfoundland in 1713, construction began on the fortified town in 1720. Not long afterwards, the need of a supplement force to the regular troops became apparent and the first militia companies were formed.
Named for Paul Morin, a prominent Louisbourg merchant, Morin Company had a wide cross section of people from the town and surrounding areas. From clerks to fishermen, tradesmen to servants, any able bodied man between the ages of 16 to 65 was compelled to serve in the militia during times of war. As well, sailors from ships blockaded in the harbour, if not serving on gun crews, were put into service in the militia companies.
In case of attack, farmers and settlers within earshot of the fortress were to report to their companies upon hearing the bells and signal guns of the garrison. In total, the militia could number as high as 1200 men depending on the number of civilians available. Normally, a Militia company consisted of 50 or more men. Each company of the Militia was commanded by a Captain, usually a man of wealth and standing in the community. There were, as well, two Sergents and two Corporals who were commanded by a Captain, usually a man of wealth and standing in the community. There were, as well, two Sergents and two Corporals who were responsible for the training and day to day operation of the company.
Used to supplement the Companies Franche De La Marine, the Militia also provided runners and scouts for the garrison. Also, native scouts attached to the Militia, as well as acting independently, provided vital intelligence. Enemy troop movements within the colony were rarely unobserved by this French ally. Much information on English actions within the Colony of Isle Royale, Isle St. Jean, the islands of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the mainland of Nova Scotia was gathered in this fashion.
Today, Morin Company, in the form of The Fortress of Louisbourg Volunteer Militia, continues to supplement the Companies Franche De La Marine garrison at the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. Although not having the numbers of our ancestor unit, we are proud to protect our town and the crowds of visitors who come to tour our colony.
Trained in 18th Century drill as well as the care of our reproduction period weapons, we participate in the various events as well as the musket and cannon demonstrations. These demos are held several times daily, weather permitting of course. We also do our best to answer any questions put to us. However, be warned. Any questions which might compromise the security of the Fortress may merit a stay in the military prison!
Outside the fortifications, we perform musket and drill demos at community events when we are able and have traveled throughout the Atlantic Provinces. It has been our great pleasure to participate in the Grand Encampments which occurred at the Fortress in 1995, 1999, and most recently in 2008.
During the filming of "Canada: A People's History" members of the Louisbourg Volunteer Militia acted as extras. Members have also appeared in one episode of "Creepy Canada" speaking about some of the more eerie visitors who come to our town.