Birth of the Navy (1910-1914)
Creating the Navy

Created in 1910, the Naval Service of Canada was renamed the Royal Canadian Navy in 1911. It was the product of an intense Canadian political debate driven by Great Britain's efforts to bolster its naval defences against the rapidly growing German navy.

Sailors Marching, Esquimalt

Marching formed part of the training and routine for members of Canada's newly created navy.

Like recruiting posters and visits along the coasts by warships, marches also helped increase the visibility of the country's tiny naval establishment. The sailors wear summer uniforms and carry Lee-Enfield rifles.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 20020045-2814