Blacks in the Atlantic provinces have always shown a willingness to serve in the military. When the 104th Regiment made its famous march from New Brunswick to Lower Canada (Quebec) during the War of 1812, it included a number of blacks from the region. They served in the pioneer company and as buglers and drummers. Two of these men, Harry Grant and George Lawrence, served throughout the war and later settled near Fredericton, New Brunswick. The soldier in this painting is depicted as a member of the pioneer company of the regiment.
Courtesy: Canadian War Museum, Canadian Museum of Civilization, National Museums of Canada (75008)
