“Necessary Stepping Stones”: The Transfer of Aurora, Patriot, and Patrician to the Royal Canadian Navy after the First World War

Authors

William Schleihauf

Abstract

Canadians seem to have difficulty in understanding the importance of naval forces in the defence of their nation. Twice in the early years Canada took the first steps towards the creation of a useful fleet, but then lost interest. The acquisition of Niobe and Rainbow for training the nascent Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) in 1910 was a good beginning, but even before the First World War broke out in 1914, the government’s priorities changed. A second, more promising start was made immediately after the end of hostilities. In the spring of 1919, hesitant discussions began which led to the commissioning of His Majesty’s Canadian Ships Aurora, Patriot and Patrician in November 1920. But why were these particular three chosen, and were they of any value?

Recommended Citation

Schleihauf, William "“Necessary Stepping Stones”: The Transfer of Aurora, Patriot, and Patrician to the Royal Canadian Navy after the First World War." Canadian Military History 9, 3 (2000)