Battle of the Restigouche National Historic Site, Naval battlefield museum in Pointe-à-la-Croix, Canada.
The interpretation center documents a French frigate from the 18th century that archaeologists recovered from Chaleur Bay after lying underwater for generations. The site marks where the final naval battle between France and Britain took place in 1760.
The 1760 battle was the final French-British naval clash for control of North America and marked the end of French rule in the region. The ship Machault played a key role in this conflict before sinking, yet its remains survived well underwater for centuries.
The exhibition reveals how sailors lived and worked aboard French warships during colonial times. The objects on display show the deep connection between France and this region, a link that remains part of the local identity today.
The site is accessible during warmer months and offers guided tours to help you understand the collection and history better. It helps to check in advance when tours in your language are available.
Many objects from the ship remained on the seafloor for over 200 years before divers and archaeologists systematically recovered them. This underwater excavation allowed everyday items from soldiers and sailors to be preserved in detail, offering rare insights into life aboard military vessels.
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