Brockiana/Sir Isaac Brock collection, 1790-2012

Isaac Brock was born in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, England in 1769, to John Brock and Elizabeth De Lisle. In 1785, at the age of 15, Brock obtained an ensigncy in the 8th Foot. He rose through the ranks to become a Captain in 1791. He then seems to have joined the 49th regiment. His military career took him to the Barbados, Holland, Denmark, and Canada. During his time in Canada, he worked to prevent desertions, strengthen fortifications at Quebec, and improve the capabilities of the marine department on lakes and rivers, in the event of war with the United States. In 1811 he was promoted Major-General. Later that year, he became “president” and administrator of the government of Upper Canada when Francis Gore (the lieutenant governor) left for England. When the United States declared War on June 18, 1812, Brock advocated for an attack on Fort Michilimackinac in order to secure the support of the Indians. A successful attack followed, which provided the British with the support of the Indians of the Upper Lakes region. Brock led a bold and successful attack on Detroit not long after with the help of Indian allies and their leader Tecumseh. This victory greatly increased the morale of the militia and the confidence of those in Canada that it was possible to successfully defend the colony from the Americans. A battle at Queenston in Niagara ensued on October 13, 1812, in which Brock was shot and fatally wounded. His body was taken to a house in Queenston. Just before his death, it was said he uttered encouragement to the York militia, saying “Push on brave York volunteers”. Brock’s aide-de-camp John Macdonell was left in charge, but he too was killed in battle. The Americans succeeded in capturing Queenston Heights, but General Sheaffe arrived later that day with more troops and recaptured what the Americans had taken, along with about 1000 prisoners. Brock and Macdonell were buried on October 16 in a bastion of Fort George. In 1824 they were reburied under a monument built on Queenston Heights to commemorate Isaac Brock and the Battle of Queenston Heights. The monument was destroyed in 1840, but an even grander one was built in its place. The brave and daring actions taken by Isaac Brock during the War of 1812 succeeded in keeping the Americans from capturing Canada and improved the morale of the community and militia.The collection contains material related to Sir Isaac Brock. Most of the material is commemorative and includes stamps, coins, portraits, and drawings. The drawings include images of Brock’s Monument and the Battle of Queenston Heights. Many of the items are from Guernsey, England, the birthplace of Isaac Brock. Some items are written or signed by Isaac Brock. Many objects associated with Brock and his military career, such as a replica black felt officer’s chapeau and General Staff Officer’s coatee, are included