The Ontario regiment museum

At the outbreak of the First World War in August, 1914 Militia regiments were not mobilized, but instead recruited and sent men to numbered battalions of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF). In November 1915 Major (later Lieutenant Colonel) Sam Sharpe was authorized to raise the 116th Battalion, CEF entirely from Ontario County. The 116th trained in Ontario and England throughout 1916 and arrived in France in February 1917. The 116th distinguished itself in France and Belgium, fighting in the battles of Hill 70, Passchendaele, Amiens, Canal du Nord, Cambrai and more.

A second battalion, the 182nd, was also raised from Ontario County but was broken up for reinforcements upon arriving in England. The Ontario Regiment perpetuates both the 116th Battalion and the 182nd Battalion today. The battle honours of the 116th Battalion are carried on the Ontario Regiment guidon.

All the history is on display here come and see for yourself it’s well worth the trip.