Frances Brooke’s The History of Emily Montague is published
1769
Written while Frances Brooke and her husband — a British military chaplain — resided in Canada, Emily Montague has been described as the first Canadian novel. Set in Québec City shortly after the British conquest, the novel contains lively descriptions of relations between English, French and Indigenous communities. It is also considered the first book about Canada by a female writer.
Each day for 150 days leading up to the opening of the Canadian History Hall, we’re presenting one moment among the many that have shaped our country. Discover more of Canada’s significant historical events in the new Canadian History Hall, opening July 1, 2017.