The Russian Cannons of Terrasse Dufferin: An Unexpected Historical Relic

Walking along Terrasse Dufferin, one of Quebec City’s most iconic spots, visitors may notice several old cannons facing the St. Lawrence River. Among them, some are neither British nor French but actually Russian. How did these Russian cannons end up in Quebec? The story behind their presence is as fascinating as it is unexpected.

A Gift from the British Empire
The Russian cannons found on Terrasse Dufferin originate from the Crimean War (1853-1856), a conflict in which Russia faced a coalition of Britain, France, the Ottoman Empire, and the Kingdom of Sardinia. After the allies' victory, numerous Russian artillery pieces were seized as war trophies. As a commemorative gesture, the British government decided to distribute some of these captured cannons to its colonies. Quebec, being a fortified and strategically significant city at the time, received these war relics in the 19th century.

British Cannons That Look Almost Identical
Near the Russian cannons, visitors can also find British cannons that appear nearly identical. This similarity is due to the fact that both Russian and British cannons of the era were produced using similar manufacturing techniques and adhered to the same standards for heavy artillery in the 19th century. In fact, these cannons were all designed by Andrew Gascoyne, a British artillery engineer whose work influenced the production of many cannons used by different nations. He also sold cannons to Russia for many years, something Great Britain was not very found of.

The British even repurposed some captured Russian cannons for their own defenses. The key differences between the two lie in the engravings and markings on the artillery pieces. While the Russian and British cannons on Terrasse Dufferin may look alike at first glance, their origins and histories remain distinct.

A Military History Reminder
These cannons not only highlight Quebec’s historical military importance but also symbolize Britain’s influence in Canadian history. They serve as a reminder of a time when international relations were demonstrated through military displays and trophies of war. Positioned on Terrasse Dufferin, these cannons now offer visitors a glimpse into the past while serving as decorative elements cherished by history enthusiasts and photographers alike. They create a direct link between Quebec City and 19th-century European conflicts.

A Preserved Heritage
Thanks to heritage preservation efforts, these cannons remain accessible to the public, continuing to fascinate those interested in military history and cultural exchanges between nations. Their presence is a testament to how Quebec, despite its distance from European battlefields, has always been influenced by major international events. As visitors observe these imposing bronze and iron relics, they can imagine the stories they carry—silent witnesses to a bygone era, still embedded in the historic landscape of Quebec City.