Governor-General of the Province of Canada facts for kids
The Governor General of the Province of Canada was a very important leader in Canada before it became its own country in 1867. This job existed from 1840 until Canadian Confederation. Think of them as the Queen's representative in what was then called the Province of Canada.
This role took over from earlier leaders like the Governor General of New France and the Governor General of British North America. These leaders helped manage the land for the British Crown. After 1867, when Canada became a country, a new job was created: the Governor General of Canada.
During the time of the Province of Canada, seven different people held this important position. They were either experienced government officials or diplomats who helped connect Canada with Britain.
Who Were the Governors General?
From 1840 to 1867, seven different people served as Governor General of the Province of Canada. They all worked under Queen Victoria, who was the Queen of England at that time. Here is a list of these important leaders:
| Name | Picture | Started as Governor | Finished as Governor | Monarch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lord Sydenham PC (1799–1841) |
 |
1841 | 1841 | Victoria |
| Sir Charles Bagot (1781–1843) |
 |
1842 | 1843 | Victoria |
| Sir Charles Metcalfe (1785–1844) |
 |
1843 | 1845 | Victoria |
| The Earl Cathcart (1783–1859) |
 |
1846 | 1847 | Victoria |
| The Earl of Elgin and Kincardine (1811–1863) |
 |
1847 | 1854 | Victoria |
| Sir Edmund Walker Head (1805–1868) |
 |
1854 | 1861 | Victoria |
| The Viscount Monck (1819–1894) |
 |
1861 | 1867 | Victoria |
Where Did They Live?
The Governors General did not stay in one place. As the capital city of the Province of Canada moved, so did their official homes. Here are some of the places they lived:
- Alwington House, Kingston: From 1841 to 1844
- Château Ramezay, Montreal: From 1844 to 1849
- Elmsley House, Toronto: From 1849 to 1852
- Elmsley House, Toronto: From 1856 to 1858
See also
