Jean Vauquelin

Who was Jean Vauquelin?

Jean Vauquelin was a French naval officer.

Vauquelin came to Canada as part of the naval force involved in the Seven Years' War. He arrived in 1759 in commander of the frigate Atalante. Ensuing action involved Louisbourg and the naval battles with the British on the St. Lawrence. In 1760, he and his badly damaged ship were captured, the ship burned and Vauquelin captured by the British. His bravery had impressed his foes, who soon released him for return to France.

He is commemorated by Vauquelin Square, a small square located in Old Montreal.