This week Matthew welcomes Gurth Pretty, Director of HMS Psyche Canadian Maritime Heritage Society, as they explore the fascinating history of the War of 1812, the iconic vessels that fought during the conflict, and the battles that occurred right here on Lake Ontario.

HMS Psyche Canadian Maritime Heritage Society is a registered not-for-profit corporation dedicated to preserving and teaching the heritage and traditional maritime skills of the Great Lakes, prior to Confederation.

The Society offers experiential education to all age groups, including static displays, historic presentations, War of 1812 re-enactments and on-the-water seamanship.

The Society is named in honour of the HMS Psyche. During the War of 1812, there was a naval arms race on Lake Ontario. The British & Americans sought to build the biggest fleet to subdue the other.

One of the vessels the British built was named HMS Psyche.

You are invited to email us questions you have about Mississauga and we encourage you to send a short (less than 1 minute) MP4 video of your question, which we may feature in one of our “Ask a Historian” videos.

Any questions not featured in our videos will receive a written response from Matthew.

We would also love to feature questions from young Mississauga residents who are curious about their city and will feature a dedicated video to these inquisitive kids.

Send your questions to us at: [email protected]

Photo credit:
Image of Corporal Ballard’s headstone created by Isabelle Perrot and Guillaume van der Wende