The 2nd York Militia were a Canadian Militia Line Infantry Regiment at the time of the War of 1812

War of 1812

The War of 1812 was a military conflict fought between the forces of the United States of America and those of the British Empire. The Americans declared war in 1812 for several reasons, including trade restrictions because of Britain's ongoing war with France, impressment of American merchant...

. They were part of the York Militia, which at that time was three Regiments strong. The 2nd Regiment was recruited arould the present-day Halton and Peel Regions.

War of 1812

At the beginning of the War, two Flank Companies were mobilized to fight alongside the 41st Regiment of Foot. One of these was commanded by Captain John Chisholm. They were present at the battle of Queenston Heights

Queenston Heights

thumb|Brock's Monument|250px|Brock's Monument at Queenston HeightsThe Queenston Heights is a geographical feature of the Niagara Escarpment immediately above the village of Queenston, Ontario, Canada. Its geography is a promontory formed where the escarpment is divided by the Niagara River...

, where they heard the (alleged) last words of Major General Isaac Brock

Isaac Brock

Major-General Sir Isaac Brock KB was a British Army officer and administrator. Brock was assigned to Canada in 1802. Despite facing desertions and near-mutinies, he commanded his regiment in Upper Canada successfully for many years...

, "Push on the brave York volunteers."

Post 1812

The 2nd Regiment remained in the York Militia until sub-units of it broke off to form the Halton Militia in 1846 and the Peel Militia in 1852. These Militia units were broken into Independent Companies in 1856, and were later formed into the 20th Halton Battalion of Infantry and the 36th Peel Battalion in 1866. These two Regiment would later form The Lorne Scots.