Wellington's Switzers : the Watteville Regiment (1801-1816)

The Watteville Regiment was formed in 1801 for the British Army and maintained a core of Swiss soldiers as it took on a more multi-national flavour.

It began service in Egypt (1801) then in the Mediterranean where it participated in the celebrated victory at Maida (1806).

It was part of the garrison besieged in Cadiz. Finally the regiment was sent to defend Canada against the United States and saw action at Oswego and before being sent to the Niagara front.

At Fort Erie, the action was marked by controversy. Many men chose to be discharged in Canada rather than return to Europe.