Butler's Barracks facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Butler's Barracks |
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Butler's Barracks
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| Location | Ontario, Canada |
| Built | 1778 |
| Original use | Home of Loyalist military officer John Butler |
| Governing body | Parks Canada |
| Website | Butler's Barracks |
Butler's Barracks is a historic site in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. It was once the home of John Butler, a military officer. He was famous for leading a special group of soldiers called Butler's Rangers. They fought during the American Revolutionary War.
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History of Butler's Barracks
Butler's Barracks has a long and interesting history. It served different purposes over the years. It was important for military training and housing soldiers.
The First Barracks
The very first barracks building was built in 1778. It stood near the Niagara River. This building was later taken down in 1800. This happened when Fort George was being built nearby.
The Current Barracks Building
The building you see today as Butler's Barracks was built in 1818. This site was once very large. It was first used by the Indian Department. Later, the British military used it for their operations.
Military Sites in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Butler's Barracks is one of several important military sites in the town. These sites are all located along the Niagara River. Other notable places include:
The Commons Area Buildings
The barracks was part of a larger area called the Commons. This area had several other important buildings:
- Commissariat Officer's Quarters and Store (1839): This was a large house. It was home to the British Commissariat Department. They managed military supplies.
- Junior Commissariat Officer's Quarters (1817): This building served as headquarters for staff. It was also a dining hall for officers. Sometimes, it was used as a residence.
- Indian Council House (around 1812): This building later became a hospital in 1822.
- Other buildings included storehouses and a gunshed.
From British to Canadian Control
In 1871, the British military handed over control of the grounds. The Canadian Army took over. The site then became a training ground. It also housed the 2nd Division of the Canadian Expeditionary Force.
Camp Kosciuszko and the Blue Army
From October 1917 to March 1919, a special army trained here. This was the Polish Army, and their training area was called Camp Kosciuszko. These soldiers later fought alongside French forces. They were known as Haller's Army, or the Blue Army. The barracks built at Camp Kosciuszko were used until the 1960s. Today, this area is part of the Fort George National Historic Site.
The Lincoln and Welland Regimental Museum
Today, the Lincoln and Welland Regimental Museum is located inside Butler's Barracks. The museum has many interesting exhibits. You can see displays and artifacts from the 18th century to today. These include old uniforms, weapons, and medals. There are also photographs and musical instruments from the regimental band.
