The Lincoln and Welland Regiment

The Lincoln and Welland Regiment began in the Niagara region during the mid-19th century, when volunteer infantry companies were raised to support local defence. The Lincoln Battalion was formed in 1863, followed shortly by the Welland Battalion in 1866, each serving communities along the southern Ontario peninsula. Both units took part in the Fenian Raids, helping secure the Canada–U.S. border during a turbulent period in early Canadian history.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the two battalions evolved alongside the Canadian Militia, maintaining strong regional ties while developing into modern infantry formations. During the First World War, soldiers from both units served with the Canadian Expeditionary Force, contributing to battalions that fought in major battles across Europe.

A major milestone came in 1936, when the two long-standing regiments officially amalgamated to form The Lincoln and Welland Regiment. With the outbreak of the Second World War, the regiment was mobilized and saw extensive service in Northwest Europe. It fought in the Battle of the Scheldt, the Rhineland campaign, and the liberation of the Netherlands—earning a distinguished reputation for determination and effectiveness.

After the war, the regiment returned to its reserve role while continuing to support Canadian Army activities at home and abroad. Over the decades, members deployed on UN and NATO operations in Cyprus, Bosnia, and Afghanistan, providing trained infantry soldiers to international missions and domestic responses such as flood relief and major event security.

Today, The Lincoln and Welland Regiment remains the infantry regiment of the Niagara region under 32 Canadian Brigade Group, preserving a proud legacy built on over 150 years of service, community connection, and operational contribution.