In 1840, a charter was issued by Queen Victoria to create a Unit in Montreal however, it is believed that other Units may have existed well before that time; perhaps as early as the Conquest of New France in the 1700's. The Association derives its name from the remnants of British and French colonial regiments which were left in Canada when their regiments returned to Britain or France following their tours of overseas duty, protecting their respective colonies. These men gathered to exchange information on service benefits that might be available and to fraternize in a social environment. The Association was known as 'THE ARMY VETERANS IN CANADA'. Following the War of 1812, sailors from the British Navy who patrolled the Great Lakes and the eastern seaboard who remained in Canada joined the Army Veterans club and the Association's title then changed to 'THE ARMY AND NAVY VETERANS IN CANADA' more... See more text