Battles & Campaigns · 1918
Battle of Valenciennes
Valenciennes, Nord, France
What happened
By late October 1918, Canadian troops had surrounded Valenciennes, which was protected by a flooded canal. They first took Mont Houy, a hill overlooking the city. On 1 November they attacked and pushed into the city, clearing the last German defenders by 2 November.
Why it matters
Valenciennes had been held by Germany since 1914. It was the last major French city under German control.
What came next
British attacks to the south began on 3 November, and the war ended eight days later.
Did you know?
Sergeant Hugh Cairns, who led the capture of guns and over 100 soldiers here, is remembered with a plaque in Valenciennes.
Timeline
- Aug 1914German troops occupy Valenciennes.
- 1 Nov 1918Canadians attack Mont Houy and enter the city.
- 2 Nov 1918The city is cleared.
- 11 Nov 1918Armistice.