I had the opportunity to visit Brock's Tomb at Queenston. There was a long line waiting to climb up to the top of the monument. I walked to the entrance ahead of the line and a guide in colonial garb looked at me. I said, "I don't want to go up. I just want to see MacDonnell's name." He replied, "Oh, you're one in ten thousand"
One of the ten thousand here... Major General Sir Isaac Brock KOB will always be my hero, but I'll never forget the story of his loyal friend leaping on him shouting 'REVENGE THE GENERAL' while trying to shield him from further injury. We won the battle, but lost the very best Major General we'll ever have. RIP BROCK&MacDONELL! Heroes are few in number here in Canada unless you LOOK for them.
God Bless Canada and all who served their Sovereign Loyally. We can never repay our debt to those loyal heroes who served so nobly. May you rest in peace with hallowed Honour and I pray that all those who follow in your footsteps acknowledge your heroic sacrifice for your King and Country. God bless you and all those who fell in duty and Honour to the Crown and their country.
This lead me down a historical rabbit hole, and I'm glad for it. The bravery showed by MacDonald and his men is humbling. As a member of the adversary nation in this story, I have unbridled respect for the men who fought with valor and honor against us. One more knows the name.
Remember waking up to the news the morning of Stan's death. He was due to play at the local folk festival that year, and I'd saved up to go there. This was always the song I though really memoralized Stan. An untimely death - and so many songs unsung.
Shortly after I heard about his death, I was walking around and put this very tape in my walkman, and this was the song that played. Untimely indeed--I've read that Stan had planned to release an album in French, and an album inspired by indigenous themes and music.
LDVervain Fuck off. When our Prime Minister says "Canada has no culture", it's a clear sign our culture is in danger. The Anglophone population, the true natives of this country. are rapidly dwindling and being replaced by the Chinese, Arabs, and Africans. Once they're gone this becomes a country of no one, culture is directly related to ethnicity and filling a Eurocentric country with non-Europeans is a surefire way to kill it.
***** I would easily say that he was THE greatest. For so many of his gifts of music, history and story telling.....to say nothing of his exquisite performance abilities and heavenly voice.
Greatest songwriter ever. A national treasure. He died a hero, way before his time. And as Stan said about himself: "Not one in ten thousand knows my name."
I love this song and recently went to the Brock monument. It was very moving to stand there on the heights. It is hard to believe that Stan was only 33. I recall a quote from his biography. It is from Silver Donald Cameron " What he did with the first thirty three years of his life was just bloody marvelous. What he might have done with the next thirty three is too wrenching to think about." enough said...
I always find myself singing these timeless tunes, only to stop afterwards and remember that he has passed. It is hard to believe so due to how touching and lively his music is. As sad as it may be, he was an amazingly unique musician who sang about the unmentioned monuments in life who passed in an incredibly harsh and terrible way.
The man sounds like a fine soldier. It would be a shame for his name to be forgotten by his countrymen. Salute. U.S. Marine sergeant Vietnam veteran. Semper Fi
You do know that it was your soldiers he was fighting against. 80 Canadian militia vs. 400 American regular army. And the militia nearly routed the Americans. Until he died and the militia collapsed. The Americans were driven off by Canadian reinforcements. But McDonnell nearly won the battle with just 80 militia.
@@joshuaplotkin8826 Of course I know that, Joshua. Is that some reason I should not respect the man's courage, ability and his value to his own country?
+LD King he was going to beat you. 80 men against 400 and he was going to beat you. the turning point of the battle came when a lucky musket shot got him in the back. your soldiers killed one man and the other 79 were unable to finish what they had started. I don't get that. still, 80 against 400 and until he died he was going to win the battle.
***** ~ Kind of surreal isn't it? One reason I had to salute him. He did his job in spades. He rallied those men and they fought like crazy. When he died they completely fell apart. He may have been on the 'other' side but I admire him for his bravery and his sacrifice. And before anyone starts in, my family has a long history of military service. That being said, I appreciate all the service men and women who served with honor and I thank them for their service and sacrifice, regardless of which side.
but why is it they can be winning at one moment and then totally collapse once their leader dies? Nelson's men did not do that at Trafalgar, Wolfe's men did not do that at the Plains of Abraham, and Jackson's men did not do that at Chancellorsville. Even after the leader died the soldiers (or sailors in Nelson's case) still won the battle.
***** ~ I don't know, different soldiers, different leaders, different battles. My take on it is that there just was not anyone left with the ability to believe they could still win or had the capability to stand up and lead.
Summer of 2010 on family trip from Michigan to visit in-laws in New Hampshire we made sure to stop off at the monument. Odd (as a yank) to visit a war memorial were we were the enemy. This is one of my favorite Of Stan's songs.
But, that is who a hero really is; isn't it. We lost so much of our culture and pathways to history that early cold February 1965 day. I remember and I forget nothing. I remember listening to Stan Roger's on CBC-TV in the early eighties. What an incredible song writer and singer. So good of you to take the time to post this music to "you tube". Many thanks. An example to our nations indifference to history. I was in Queenston Heights October 13, 2012 covering the 200th aniversary of the "Battle of Queenston Heights" for the BBC. Do you know how many people showed up at the actual battlefield where MacDonnell and Brock fell at 7:00AM? My brother and I stood there alone and the British flag at that spot was not lowered. No one, but no one has one of the largest monuments in the world erected for them for nothing. Stan Rogers is a Canadian Hero too. But instead of a monument his music lives on to teach us and touch us.
The entire battle was reenacted that day, I was there. The mustre sounded at Fort George and we marched from there to the heights. It was a powerful day.
@@jake8855 We lost another connection to our British past with the retirement of the Canadian Ensign flag. Our veterans were not happy; I can tell you.
@@tommyatkinschannel2595 I saw you guys march into the town of Queenston at 10:30AM. I was paying reference to the initial battle that took place where General Iaac Brock fell at the foot of the heights. My brother and myself were there at 7:15AM at the exact spot at the cairn. Nothing... The battle that was reenacted that day was not the one where Brock was killed and MacDonnelll fatally wounded.
I was searching for something completely different, like I was gonna listen to some industrial techno or whatever. And then I accidentally clicked this and I was like... Darn now I have to listen to this again. Cause there is no way one can shut this one out and change song once one starts to listen to it. True for most of this mans production. Gorgeous.
@@Rikki0 Stan Roger's lyrics are full of Canadiana, but the music itself so well crafted that it speaks a universal language. So happy to hear people down south get to enjoy it too
Background and lyrics: On The Heights in which General Brock gets the glory for Queenston Heights while Macdonnell - his aide de camp who averted a disaster after Brock was killed - gets none. “So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame And have not one in ten thousand know your name ...” says Stan Rogers, of Macdonnell, who was also killed that day fighting the Americans. Too thin the line that charged the Heights And scrambled in the clay. Too thin the Eastern Township Scot Who showed them all the way, And perhaps had you not fallen, You might be what Brock became But not one in ten thousand knows your name. To say the name, MacDonnell, It would bring no bugle call But the Redcoats stayed beside you When they saw the General fall. Twas MacDonnell raised the banner then And set the Heights aflame, But not one in ten thousand knows your name. You brought the field all standing with your courage and your luck But unknown to most, you’re lying there beside old General Brock. So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame And have not one in ten thousand know your name. At Queenston now, the General on his tower stands alone And there’s lichen on ‘MacDonnell’ carved upon that weathered stone In a corner of the monument to glory you could claim, But not one in ten thousand knows your name. You brought the field all standing with your courage and your luck But unknown to most, you’re lying there beside old General Brock. So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame And have not one in ten thousand know your name.
@@singtweetypie Thank you, I am as my Mother was born a MacDonnell in Glengarry County and gave me the Middle name of 'Alexander'. I have met my MacDonnell relatives in Glengarry and they said it without hesitation. I later became a Drum Major for a Pipe Band.
@@susanhampson446 Love the name 'Alexander'..How wonderful that you have this brave man in your family tree...along with an absolutely beautiful song that tells the story of his courage. The Scots have a proud history in Canada of being fierce soldiers - and so many of our best during WW1 and WW11 were of Scottish heritage. John Macdonnell certainly was a wonderful example of the kind of courage they have. Another young Scottish man that I admire is WW1 Victoria Cross winner, piper James Clelland Richardson. His story is inspiring as well. ( I did Highland Dancing for years...so listened to many a pipe band at the Highland Dance competitions.)
All peoples have heros.I"m from Buffalo with history of native peoples,English.French,German,Irish, Italian,Africans,Spanish,ect.The history from that area of the two nations is emence and facinating.
John MacDonell of Greenfield was the son of Alexander MacDonell 2nd of Greenfield, brother-in-law of Sir Hugh MacDonell of Aberchalder, my 3rd Great Grandfather. Alexander married Hugh's sister, Janet MacDonell of Aberchalder, daughter of Alexander MacDonell of Aberchalder and Mary MacDonald of Killichonat. this song gives me goose-bump
I have learned more aboot (sorry, couldn't resist) Canada's people and history from Stan Rogers and Stompin' Tom than from all the books and classes I took in school. Stan and old Tom were great singers and writers, and great Canadians.
@@EEYore-py1bf not entirely true, small towns in Alberta I've noticed have a strong Canadian accent, aswell as Newfoundland, alot of people there say aboot too.
@@dnrspdr03canadian95 Well, the populations of all the small towns of Alberta and the population of Newfoundland combined aren't a very large portion of Canada, so I'd say my original statement still stands.
I know right, how dare us Canadians celebrate a man who saved us from being conquered by the Americans. How dare we celebrate a man who devoted his life to our land. Must be racism.
@@EEYore-py1bf This non-white celebrates all the Canadian heroes. I am not anti-American. I just don't want to be an American. I also celebrate the indigenous comrades in arm of the British regulars and the Canadian militia during the War of 1812. Teach Canadian history in schools, and more Canadians will know our history better.
It's been a few years now but I've climbed the tower a few times but until I heard the song had never noticed the name... Made a trip to the monument the next time I was down that way and finally found the plaque... If memory serves it was stuck on the wall inside out of the way almost as an afterthought. I remember thinking, no wonder nobody knows the guy's name...
I've seen the picture and to think of what arcane details we Rogers fans seek out. I never saw it when I was there in Queenston. That battle and all of that history. How many people are aware of it. I just had a conversation with a former Canadian and we both live near Plattsburgh NY and it was his opinion that if the Brittish fleet had continued south after the battle of Plattsburgh, we (Americans) would have ended up subject of the British empire.
Roger Hale Sheaffe was a coward and favoured appeasing the U.S. instead of truly opposing it. Major General Sir Isaac Brock was our true Hero of Upper Canada in those days. And now in 2017 not one in ten thousand knows HIS name, and not that of the secondary hero, John MacDonell.
I second that. After reading a few books about the war, it truly amazes me that the possible invasion down the Hudson Valley wasn’t pressed. The US had nothing there. Nothing.
@@Winaska Maybe somebody remembered what happened to Burgoyne in 1777 (or Abercrombie in 1758). It looks a lot easier on a map than it does on the actual ground. The logistics are a nightmare, and the further the invader's supply line extend, the shorter the defender's supply lines grow.
My 5th great grandfather was Commodore Issac Mayo, he told President Lincoln he wouldn't fight against the USS Constitution. He hinted to him that there was going to be a civil war. He died on May 16th 1861 he was the first casualty of the Civil War. After being a Mexican War hero.
(NOTE: Mary MacDonnell of Glengarry County of Cornwall Upper Canada is a Great Granddaughter of John Alexander MacDonnell of Glengarry and gave me the Middle Name 'Alexander' in memory. When we traveled to Glengarry County our Mother's relatives remarked that me Bruce Alexander was definitely a MacDonnell. Interestingly, Brother Randolph Graham was shorter and had a smaller hand and fingers typical of the Graham Uncles. Further Interestingly Eric Graham and Ewen MacDonnell met in the Quebec Mines where Eric Graham was introduced by Ewen MacDonnell to his sister Mary MacDonnell of Glengarry County. ... Story Line and Song/Lyrics: "And YET 1 in 10,000 Knows His Name" On The Heights in which General Brock gets the glory for Queenston Heights while Macdonnell - his aide de camp who averted a disaster after Brock was killed - gets none: “So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame And have not one in ten thousand know your name ... says Stan Rogers, of Macdonnell, who was also killed that day fighting the Americans. "Too thin the line that charged the Heights And scrambled in the clay. Too thin the Eastern Township Scot Who showed them all the way, And perhaps had you not fallen, You might be what Brock became But not one in ten thousand knows your name. To say the name, MacDonnell, It would bring no bugle call But the Redcoats stayed beside you When they saw the General fall. Twas MacDonnell raised the banner then And set the Heights aflame, But not one in ten thousand knows your name. You brought the field all standing with your courage and your luck But unknown to most, you’re lying there beside old General Brock. So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame And have not one in ten thousand know your name. At Queenston now, the General on his tower stands alone And there’s lichen on ‘MacDonnell’ carved upon that weathered stone In a corner of the monument to glory you could claim, But not one in ten thousand knows your name. You brought the field all standing with your courage and your luck But unknown to most, you’re lying there beside old General Brock. So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame And have not one in ten thousand know your name."
I am a real Mcdonell from N. Uist , Hebrides on my mom's side.... I love Stan but I am forever no Anglo Saxon generals manservant aid du camp... pissonem! Just expressing from Vancouver B.C. Canada! Go Stan!!
Damn it, this war gave both our nations a reason to join against the worst enemies the world has ever known. Who cares who won or lost. We should be celebrating the fact that united we stand, divided we fall.
I take it from your comment you are from the US, it says a lot about your national philosophy I think. For me an Australian, a hero is a hero no matter what side of a battle he is on.
@LordRobertofDudeness It was more a comment about the RUclips community (and the internet in general, really). You have a video that celebrates one nation, and you get every traditional enemy or rival of that nation start posted derogatory comments all over the place, dragging the entire comment section into a cesspool of insult and counter-insult. It's rather nice seeing exceptions to that common trend.
I am answerimg here because on a video you asked what color archaeopteryx was but it did not let me respond. Archaeopteryx possessed a dark-colored fuzz and black wings that shined blue.
@@topshotta4258 speak for yourself. Canada should be French but instead we French Canadians were forced from our homes by invading British. My family fought on the American side of this war.
The Battle of Queenston Heights was won largely because the small force that opposed the initial invasion were able to delay the Americans long enough for reinforcements to arrive. That force included a large number of Six Nations warriors. I cut and pasted what follows: "the story began early in the morning of October 13. A large group of 6 Nations or Iroquois and a few other warriors were encamped near Fort George. When the battle began, they ran to Queenston and arrived just after Brock had been killed. No resistance was then being offered the enemy who were crossing the Niagara. The Warriors attacked the Americans and thus prevented them from digging into a fortified position on the Heights. When Sheaffe arrived later in the afternoon, his successful counter-attack (in which the warriors participated), was made easier by the fact that the Americans had not had time to fortify their position because of their skirmishes with the warriors." As glorious as it was (just look at the artwork), Brock's assault on the heights was pretty stupid because he was engaging the Americans who held the high ground. If not one in ten thousand know Macdonnell, even fewer know John Norton who was an adopted Mohawk and leader of the native forces in the battle. Rather than face the enemy from below the heights, he took his warriors along a road that led them to a position behind the Americans. When British reinforcements arrived, the native forces had the Americans pinned down from the protection of the woods.
I would point out further that despite vastly superior numbers, the Americans never did get them across the river. Another cut and paste here: "A second aspect of the battle was psychological. At a crucial stage in the battle, nearly 2,000 New York Militia refused to cross the river to help their comrades at Queenston. Some sources indicate that a fear of the Indian Warrior was largely responsible for this. Several notable warriors were present at Queenston such as John Brant and John Bearfoot, however, the most important was their war chief John Norton." For those who would minimize the psychological impact of the native forces, I need only point out that in the early stages of the war, Brock had captured Fort Detroit not by force of arms but rather by making the Americans aware of the presence of Native warriors in his forces. The support of Six Nations warriors made it possible for the successful defense of Upper Canada. Pierre Berton has a two volume history of the war that should be required reading in Canada. His conclusion was that it was a war fought without a winner. The only loser in the conflict turned out to be the natives who were so integral to the British defense. That is truly sad to realize
Much of the American force was militia, local residents who had been called up to defend their state. They refused to cross the Niagara River to take the fight into Canada. As you suggest, many feared the native defenders, but they said they'd signed up to defend, not to invade.
It wasnt just us who stopped the Yankee hordes! 12 Mohawk leaders did at this place, with other warriors. And nobody knows. Not one Honor song for theyre sacrifice for Canada. Such disrespect. I'm suprised they helped us in the two World Wars. Even after that, they were still insulted and treated like dirt.
amazing how the tide of a battle can change by killing one man. Macdonnell was about to win when he died. his death caused the collapse of the British (Canadian militia actually) troops. 80 men against 400 and he had them on the run. then he died and everything went to hell. the fate of one man can determine the fate of nations. like how Antony's fleet was wiped out after he went after Cleopatra. How the legions of Varrus were slaughtered after the General took his own life. IF there are any veterans on this page, please tell me why hundreds or even thousands of men suddenly lose the ability to win when one man dies.
Except the British won the Battle of Queenston Heights. Yes, Brock's initial assault failed when he and all but one of his immediate subordinates, including Macdonnell, were killed or rendered hors de combat. However, that didn't mean his men lost 'the ability to win', given that they *did* win later in the day.
The Canadian militia that followed Macdonnell were repulsed. A fresh company of regulars showed up later in the day and won. The men who followed MacDonnel did not retake the heights. they were going to then he died and their assault failed.
"Everything went to hell." Or they recalled until reinforcements arrived and they ended up winning. It is sad and interesting though how one lucky bullet can change the whole battle. He could have been known as the man who lead 80 mean up a hill and beat 400.
80 irregulars against 400 infantry. in the end an actual infantry regiment won the battle, but MacDonnell's militia were routed after he died. Victory in their grasp then he died and they collapsed.
It was General Sheaffe who won the battle of Queenston hieghts. MacDonnell followed Brock in a useless charge that got them both killed. So,let's remember the man who won the battle.
MacDonnell - the forgotten hero of Queenston Heights. Brock was a fool who rushed into battle and got killed for it MacDonnell held things together and saved the day for Canada.
SteveZodiac2001 Brock transfered Captain William's 2 Grenadier companies from the Heights which were Captain Dennis's right flank and the high land. Brock ordered Captain William's to shore up a misconstrued landing of 2 batteaux's of American 13th Regiment, approximately 60 men who landed at Hamilton's Cove by error as they lost the eddie. Brock through it was the start of a landing to attack the left flank to cut off Fort George but it was just a mistake. After the heights fell and the Redan Battery was overrun by Captain Wool and his men, Brock led the charge with those men at hand above the docks when he realized he blew it. Brock assembled these men from Captain Chisholm's and Captain Applegarth's 2nd York flank companies along with Captain Hatt's flank company from the 5th Lincoln, supplemented with a mixture of 8th and 49th Infantry that were handy. Major General Brock should have been court marshaled for such a military blunder but instead he is held in honour. The jacket on display at the War Museum is not the one he was wearing when he fell, but that's another story. Lieutenant Colonel McDonnell made it to the battery forcing the Yanks to spike the 18 Pound canon and the other artillery pieces present. He was shot in the back and died a painful death at Durham's house near Voortman's Point to the south later that day. terrydwhelan@gmail.com
Major General Sir Isaac Brock understood the importance of the heights, and died defending the Dominion of Canada against its invaders, despite the cost. Never direct men to go where you aren't prepared to go yourself. I'm sure MacDonell was thinking this when he took command.
"Not one in ten-thousand knows your name"
It's sad to think that can also be said about Stan.
GrrrIamMad I’ve been lucky enough to sing with Garnet Rogers but sadly never heard Stan sing. Only good die young.
To a degree, the song was deliberately autobiographical.
If you give my link a few minutes of your time, you may disagree - or smile, at the very least:
ruclips.net/video/cw9O2xdAmGc/видео.html
Your comment brings tears to my eyes
Agreed bud
I had the opportunity to visit Brock's Tomb at Queenston. There was a long line waiting to climb up to the top of the monument. I walked to the entrance ahead of the line and a guide in colonial garb looked at me. I said, "I don't want to go up. I just want to see MacDonnell's name." He replied, "Oh, you're one in ten thousand"
I ll do that .
A great song by a great Canadian about a great Canadian.
MacDonell was born on the shore of Loch Oich near Invergarry in district of Lochaber roughly 25/30 miles north of Fort William, Scotland
@@connalmacbride8754 LOL-
One of the ten thousand here... Major General Sir Isaac Brock KOB will always be my hero, but I'll never forget the story of his loyal friend leaping on him shouting 'REVENGE THE GENERAL' while trying to shield him from further injury. We won the battle, but lost the very best Major General we'll ever have. RIP BROCK&MacDONELL! Heroes are few in number here in Canada unless you LOOK for them.
God Bless Canada and all who served their Sovereign Loyally. We can never repay our debt to those loyal heroes who served so nobly. May you rest in peace with hallowed Honour and I pray that all those who follow in your footsteps acknowledge your heroic sacrifice for your King and Country. God bless you and all those who fell in duty and Honour to the Crown and their country.
I'm an American and I believe I've learned more about Canada's history through Stan Roger's music than anywhere else. Great Song!
Me too, and I’m Canadian!!
God help you.
This lead me down a historical rabbit hole, and I'm glad for it. The bravery showed by MacDonald and his men is humbling. As a member of the adversary nation in this story, I have unbridled respect for the men who fought with valor and honor against us. One more knows the name.
Remember waking up to the news the morning of Stan's death. He was due to play at the local folk festival that year, and I'd saved up to go there. This was always the song I though really memoralized Stan. An untimely death - and so many songs unsung.
Same here--------Woke uo to this horrifying news. Ilived in Vancouver and he was coming to perform there in a few weeks
Shortly after I heard about his death, I was walking around and put this very tape in my walkman, and this was the song that played. Untimely indeed--I've read that Stan had planned to release an album in French, and an album inspired by indigenous themes and music.
Anyone who says Cananda has no culture hasn't listend to Stan Rogers
Our culture is in danger though, we must do all we can to save it.
Our culture is not in Peril
Cecil you're an idiot!! You damage the I.Q. of the country.
LDVervain
Fuck off. When our Prime Minister says "Canada has no culture", it's a clear sign our culture is in danger. The Anglophone population, the true natives of this country. are rapidly dwindling and being replaced by the Chinese, Arabs, and Africans. Once they're gone this becomes a country of no one, culture is directly related to ethnicity and filling a Eurocentric country with non-Europeans is a surefire way to kill it.
Sadly most Canadians have lost there culture to United States
Missing Upper Canada in the Arctic. Thank you Lt.Col John Macdonnell and the proud few who saved our nation.
He is in the pantheon of the greatest folksingers EVER!
***** The very very best
***** I would easily say that he was THE greatest. For so many of his gifts of music, history and story telling.....to say nothing of his exquisite performance abilities and heavenly voice.
Greatest songwriter ever. A national treasure. He died a hero, way before his time. And as Stan said about himself: "Not one in ten thousand knows my name."
But lots of us do...and have made sure our children know too...
Imagine all of the fabulous music Stan would have written had he not died so young.
Nice to meet a fellow Stan Rogers fan. I'll continue to spread his music here in Oz.
I love this song and recently went to the Brock monument. It was very moving to stand there on the heights. It is hard to believe that Stan was only 33. I recall a quote from his biography. It is from Silver Donald Cameron " What he did with the first thirty three years of his life was just bloody marvelous. What he might have done with the next thirty three is too wrenching to think about." enough said...
Canada needs its heroes and they are the truckers. Stan would be with them
@@michaelemmer1727 keep his name out of it
@@NK73080 Thank You!
I always find myself singing these timeless tunes, only to stop afterwards and remember that he has passed. It is hard to believe so due to how touching and lively his music is. As sad as it may be, he was an amazingly unique musician who sang about the unmentioned monuments in life who passed in an incredibly harsh and terrible way.
Me too. I’m having a fire, smoking a Doobie, in the middle of nowhere, and rejoicing that Stan Rogers is being played right now!
The man sounds like a fine soldier. It would be a shame for his name to be forgotten by his countrymen. Salute.
U.S. Marine sergeant Vietnam veteran.
Semper Fi
You do know that it was your soldiers he was fighting against. 80 Canadian militia vs. 400 American regular army. And the militia nearly routed the Americans. Until he died and the militia collapsed. The Americans were driven off by Canadian reinforcements. But McDonnell nearly won the battle with just 80 militia.
@@joshuaplotkin8826 Of course I know that, Joshua. Is that some reason I should not respect the man's courage, ability and his value to his own country?
I'm American and I salute you Lt. Col MacDonnell and thanks to Stan Rogers
tons of folks know your name.
+LD King he was going to beat you. 80 men against 400 and he was going to beat you. the turning point of the battle came when a lucky musket shot got him in the back. your soldiers killed one man and the other 79 were unable to finish what they had started. I don't get that. still, 80 against 400 and until he died he was going to win the battle.
***** ~ Kind of surreal isn't it? One reason I had to salute him. He did his job in spades. He rallied those men and they fought like crazy. When he died they completely fell apart. He may have been on the 'other' side but I admire him for his bravery and his sacrifice. And before anyone starts in, my family has a long history of military service.
That being said, I appreciate all the service men and women who served with honor and I thank them for their service and sacrifice, regardless of which side.
but why is it they can be winning at one moment and then totally collapse once their leader dies? Nelson's men did not do that at Trafalgar, Wolfe's men did not do that at the Plains of Abraham, and Jackson's men did not do that at Chancellorsville. Even after the leader died the soldiers (or sailors in Nelson's case) still won the battle.
***** ~ I don't know, different soldiers, different leaders, different battles. My take on it is that there just was not anyone left with the ability to believe they could still win or had the capability to stand up and lead.
you could be right. I guess we will never know. gives you something to think about though.
I maybe be a Buckeye but I know good music of our great lakes and our Northern Brothers
Same buddy!
God Bless you Brothers 🇺🇸 🇨🇦
Summer of 2010 on family trip from Michigan to visit in-laws in New Hampshire we made sure to stop off at the monument. Odd (as a yank) to visit a war memorial were we were the enemy. This is one of my favorite Of Stan's songs.
This is an amazing singer. Damn sham I didn't get to see him live. But am an thankful his brother and son continue his musical legend. :)
Thanks for posting this gem. We owe much to MacDonell and also to the wonderful Stan Rogers.
But, that is who a hero really is; isn't it. We lost so much of our culture and pathways to history that early cold February 1965 day. I remember and I forget nothing. I remember listening to Stan Roger's on CBC-TV in the early eighties. What an incredible song writer and singer. So good of you to take the time to post this music to "you tube". Many thanks. An example to our nations indifference to history. I was in Queenston Heights October 13, 2012 covering the 200th aniversary of the "Battle of Queenston Heights" for the BBC. Do you know how many people showed up at the actual battlefield where MacDonnell and Brock fell at 7:00AM? My brother and I stood there alone and the British flag at that spot was not lowered. No one, but no one has one of the largest monuments in the world erected for them for nothing. Stan Rogers is a Canadian Hero too. But instead of a monument his music lives on to teach us and touch us.
What happened in February 1965?
The entire battle was reenacted that day, I was there. The mustre sounded at Fort George and we marched from there to the heights. It was a powerful day.
@@jake8855 We lost another connection to our British past with the retirement of the Canadian Ensign flag. Our veterans were not happy; I can tell you.
@@tommyatkinschannel2595 I saw you guys march into the town of Queenston at 10:30AM. I was paying reference to the initial battle that took place where General Iaac Brock fell at the foot of the heights. My brother and myself were there at 7:15AM at the exact spot at the cairn. Nothing... The battle that was reenacted that day was not the one where Brock was killed and MacDonnelll fatally wounded.
This song -- like remembering Stan Rogers -- always makes me mist up a bit.......
I wish I could find songs as well written and sung as this and Northwest Passage, in the States.
I was searching for something completely different, like I was gonna listen to some industrial techno or whatever. And then I accidentally clicked this and I was like... Darn now I have to listen to this again. Cause there is no way one can shut this one out and change song once one starts to listen to it. True for most of this mans production. Gorgeous.
I'm a Texan and I'm spreading the word about him as fast as I can. I have many friends here now who know of him. Still working on it.
Thank you for spreading word of our wonderful music in a land so far from his own
@@waylonrm3486 You are quite welcome, neighbor. Thank you for giving the world Stan. It's a better place for it.
@@Rikki0 Stan Roger's lyrics are full of Canadiana, but the music itself so well crafted that it speaks a universal language. So happy to hear people down south get to enjoy it too
Background and lyrics: On The Heights in which General Brock gets the glory for Queenston Heights while Macdonnell - his aide de camp who averted a disaster after Brock was killed - gets none.
“So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame
And have not one in ten thousand know your name ...”
says Stan Rogers, of Macdonnell, who was also killed that day fighting the Americans.
Too thin the line that charged the Heights
And scrambled in the clay.
Too thin the Eastern Township Scot
Who showed them all the way,
And perhaps had you not fallen,
You might be what Brock became
But not one in ten thousand knows your name.
To say the name, MacDonnell,
It would bring no bugle call
But the Redcoats stayed beside you
When they saw the General fall.
Twas MacDonnell raised the banner then
And set the Heights aflame,
But not one in ten thousand knows your name.
You brought the field all standing with your courage and your luck
But unknown to most, you’re lying there beside old General Brock.
So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame
And have not one in ten thousand know your name.
At Queenston now, the General on his tower stands alone
And there’s lichen on ‘MacDonnell’ carved upon that weathered stone
In a corner of the monument to glory you could claim,
But not one in ten thousand knows your name.
You brought the field all standing with your courage and your luck
But unknown to most, you’re lying there beside old General Brock.
So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame
And have not one in ten thousand know your name.
Thank you for the words to this Song Macdonnell from Upper Canada Glengarry
My Mother was a Macdonnell from Glengarry.
@@susanhampson446 Maybe somewhere in the family tree you will find you are related to this man...
@@singtweetypie Thank you, I am as my Mother was born a MacDonnell in Glengarry County and gave me the Middle name of 'Alexander'. I have met my MacDonnell relatives in Glengarry and they said it without hesitation. I later became a Drum Major for a Pipe Band.
@@susanhampson446 Love the name 'Alexander'..How wonderful that you have this brave man in your family tree...along with an absolutely beautiful song that tells the story of his courage. The Scots have a proud history in Canada of being fierce soldiers - and so many of our best during WW1 and WW11 were of Scottish heritage. John Macdonnell certainly was a wonderful example of the kind of courage they have. Another young Scottish man that I admire is WW1 Victoria Cross winner, piper James Clelland Richardson. His story is inspiring as well. ( I did Highland Dancing for years...so listened to many a pipe band at the Highland Dance competitions.)
Gorgeous song and voice
we need more musicians like this today
I just recommended him to someone earlier today, This song will definitely be among the tracks i pass on to him.
This is the story of all real heroes
Thanks to Stan you know his name.
To the next 33 years. May we all contribute. And Stan. Good job, son.
I believe that next to Gordon Lightfoot,Stan Rogers was a great influence on Canadian folk,country music.
stevetrucker64 and stomping tom corners as well.
first time i heard this one,excellent 100-100
what a song my teacher told me this song and it is so good :) Also it is sad if you think about it ;(
It's the rank-and file with the line officers who are the real heroes in any war.
you defined my highand reason for being... thank you Stan! btw your. kid Nathans 'a pullin the wheight!!!!!!
All peoples have heros.I"m from Buffalo with history of native peoples,English.French,German,Irish, Italian,Africans,Spanish,ect.The history from that area of the two nations is emence and facinating.
Edward Rice there's no way we could turn on each other
Greetings from Canada
I live in Niagara and i never knew about MacDonnell. I know that Sir Isaac Brock^s horse was named Sophie...
Stephen Connacher ❤️
Hm.... What a classic. Canada rocks, by the way.
I love this song.
John MacDonell of Greenfield was the son of Alexander MacDonell 2nd of Greenfield, brother-in-law of Sir Hugh MacDonell of Aberchalder, my 3rd Great Grandfather.
Alexander married Hugh's sister, Janet MacDonell of Aberchalder, daughter of Alexander MacDonell of Aberchalder and Mary MacDonald of Killichonat.
this song gives me goose-bump
Great song
I have learned more aboot (sorry, couldn't resist) Canada's people and history from Stan Rogers and Stompin' Tom than from all the books and classes I took in school.
Stan and old Tom were great singers and writers, and great Canadians.
Very few people pronounce it "aboot", it's more of an "aboat".
You forgot Billy Green, the Scout, sung by George Fox, Stan Rogers
@@EEYore-py1bf not entirely true, small towns in Alberta I've noticed have a strong Canadian accent, aswell as Newfoundland, alot of people there say aboot too.
@@dnrspdr03canadian95 Well, the populations of all the small towns of Alberta and the population of Newfoundland combined aren't a very large portion of Canada, so I'd say my original statement still stands.
Stan Rogers is the man!
I went to Niagara Falls and then to the Brock Monument at Queenston Heights November 2014
Jeez, I was in Quenston on Tuesday, July 12, 1977, to visit Fort George. Didn't know about the monument.
Every Euro-Canadian should before the immigrant population tear it down in the coming decades it's a symbol of perceived colonial racism.
I know right, how dare us Canadians celebrate a man who saved us from being conquered by the Americans. How dare we celebrate a man who devoted his life to our land. Must be racism.
@@EEYore-py1bf This non-white celebrates all the Canadian heroes. I am not anti-American. I just don't want to be an American. I also celebrate the indigenous comrades in arm of the British regulars and the Canadian militia during the War of 1812. Teach Canadian history in schools, and more Canadians will know our history better.
you defined my highland reason for being... thank you Stan! btw your. kid Nathans 'a pullin the wheight!!!!!!
It's been a few years now but I've climbed the tower a few times but until I heard the song had never noticed the name... Made a trip to the monument the next time I was down that way and finally found the plaque... If memory serves it was stuck on the wall inside out of the way almost as an afterthought. I remember thinking, no wonder nobody knows the guy's name...
I've seen the picture and to think of what arcane details we Rogers fans seek out. I never saw it when I was there in Queenston. That battle and all of that history. How many people are aware of it. I just had a conversation with a former Canadian and we both live near Plattsburgh NY and it was his opinion that if the Brittish fleet had continued south after the battle of Plattsburgh, we (Americans) would have ended up subject of the British empire.
Roger Hale Sheaffe was a coward and favoured appeasing the U.S. instead of truly opposing it. Major General Sir Isaac Brock was our true Hero of Upper Canada in those days. And now in 2017 not one in ten thousand knows HIS name, and not that of the secondary hero, John MacDonell.
I second that. After reading a few books about the war, it truly amazes me that the possible invasion down the Hudson Valley wasn’t pressed. The US had nothing there. Nothing.
@@Winaska Maybe somebody remembered what happened to Burgoyne in 1777 (or Abercrombie in 1758). It looks a lot easier on a map than it does on the actual ground. The logistics are a nightmare, and the further the invader's supply line extend, the shorter the defender's supply lines grow.
But the British fleet was decisively defeated at Plattsburgh/the False Nile.
My 5th great grandfather was Commodore Issac Mayo, he told President Lincoln he wouldn't fight against the USS Constitution. He hinted to him that there was going to be a civil war. He died on May 16th 1861 he was the first casualty of the Civil War. After being a Mexican War hero.
Thats true. It's a stone off in a corner of the monument. Just like the song says.
I know your name, champ. Only because The Hero Of Upper Canada, Major General Sir Isaac Brock, Knight of the Bath was your commanding officer.
was just at that monument. couldnt find any names but the inside was closed. looked for him, but no macdonnell.
I'm fairly sure it's Lieutenant Colonel John Macdonnell, aide-de-camp to General Sir Isaac Brock in the War of 1812 (or so wikipedia tells us).
I am a Mcdonell and we all fight to the end!
Im 1 in 10,000 and I know his name.
Stan stood for Canada’s best
I'm related to the fellow in this song!
Go fuck yourself
One of my 7th Great Grandfathers was a Sgt Major when he ambushed the Canadians at Raisin River.
(NOTE: Mary MacDonnell of Glengarry County of Cornwall Upper Canada is a Great Granddaughter of John Alexander MacDonnell of Glengarry and gave me the Middle Name 'Alexander' in memory.
When we traveled to Glengarry County our Mother's relatives remarked that me Bruce Alexander was definitely a MacDonnell.
Interestingly, Brother Randolph Graham was shorter and had a smaller hand and fingers typical of the Graham Uncles.
Further Interestingly Eric Graham and Ewen MacDonnell met in the Quebec Mines where Eric Graham was introduced by Ewen MacDonnell to his sister Mary MacDonnell of Glengarry County.
...
Story Line and Song/Lyrics: "And YET 1 in 10,000 Knows His Name"
On The Heights in which General Brock gets the glory for Queenston Heights while Macdonnell - his aide de camp who averted a disaster after Brock was killed - gets none:
“So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame
And have not one in ten thousand know your name ...
says Stan Rogers, of Macdonnell, who was also killed that day fighting the Americans.
"Too thin the line that charged the Heights
And scrambled in the clay.
Too thin the Eastern Township Scot
Who showed them all the way,
And perhaps had you not fallen,
You might be what Brock became
But not one in ten thousand knows your name.
To say the name, MacDonnell,
It would bring no bugle call
But the Redcoats stayed beside you
When they saw the General fall.
Twas MacDonnell raised the banner then
And set the Heights aflame,
But not one in ten thousand knows your name.
You brought the field all standing with your courage and your luck
But unknown to most, you’re lying there beside old General Brock.
So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame
And have not one in ten thousand know your name.
At Queenston now, the General on his tower stands alone
And there’s lichen on ‘MacDonnell’ carved upon that weathered stone
In a corner of the monument to glory you could claim,
But not one in ten thousand knows your name.
You brought the field all standing with your courage and your luck
But unknown to most, you’re lying there beside old General Brock.
So you know what it is to scale the Heights and fall just short of fame
And have not one in ten thousand know your name."
I am a real Mcdonell from N. Uist , Hebrides on my mom's side.... I love Stan but I am forever no Anglo Saxon generals manservant aid du camp... pissonem! Just expressing from Vancouver B.C. Canada! Go Stan!!
Damn it, this war gave both our nations a reason to join against the worst enemies the world has ever known. Who cares who won or lost. We should be celebrating the fact that united we stand, divided we fall.
?????????
Umm America and Canada were fighting each other in the war of 1812. It started because America invaded Canada.
I have all Stan and Garnetts stuff!!
Tecumseh is more deserving.
I found a picture of the plaque online - google macdonnell brock monument and look in images... the distracted wanderer posted it...
I think from a Canadian/British perspective the guy was a hero...
I take it from your comment you are from the US, it says a lot about your national philosophy I think. For me an Australian, a hero is a hero no matter what side of a battle he is on.
He is. He prevented canada from being conquered by america.
@LordRobertofDudeness
It was more a comment about the RUclips community (and the internet in general, really). You have a video that celebrates one nation, and you get every traditional enemy or rival of that nation start posted derogatory comments all over the place, dragging the entire comment section into a cesspool of insult and counter-insult. It's rather nice seeing exceptions to that common trend.
I am answerimg here because on a video you asked what color archaeopteryx was but it did not let me respond. Archaeopteryx possessed a dark-colored fuzz and black wings that shined blue.
Awesome. Especially since it was written about a "bad" guy. : )
Christopher Lp he wasn't a bad guy, he was a hero in Canadians eyes
Take the blinkers off Christopher, the US invaded his country and he was a bad guy????
@@topshotta4258 speak for yourself. Canada should be French but instead we French Canadians were forced from our homes by invading British. My family fought on the American side of this war.
It was very much the native allies on the British side who prevented the American invasion
+ lowryfern. Can you elaborate?
The Battle of Queenston Heights was won largely because the small force that opposed the initial invasion were able to delay the Americans long enough for reinforcements to arrive. That force included a large number of Six Nations warriors. I cut and pasted what follows:
"the story began early in the morning of October 13. A large group of 6 Nations or Iroquois and a few other warriors were encamped near Fort George. When the battle began, they ran to Queenston and arrived just after Brock had been killed. No resistance was then being offered the enemy who were crossing the Niagara. The Warriors attacked the Americans and thus prevented them from digging into a fortified position on the Heights. When Sheaffe arrived later in the afternoon, his successful counter-attack (in which the warriors participated), was made easier by the fact that the Americans had not had time to fortify their position because of their skirmishes with the warriors."
As glorious as it was (just look at the artwork), Brock's assault on the heights was pretty stupid because he was engaging the Americans who held the high ground.
If not one in ten thousand know Macdonnell, even fewer know John Norton who was an adopted Mohawk and leader of the native forces in the battle. Rather than face the enemy from below the heights, he took his warriors along a road that led them to a position behind the Americans. When British reinforcements arrived, the native forces had the Americans pinned down from the protection of the woods.
I would point out further that despite vastly superior numbers, the Americans never did get them across the river. Another cut and paste here:
"A second aspect of the battle was psychological. At a crucial stage in the battle, nearly 2,000 New York Militia refused to cross the river to help their comrades at Queenston. Some sources indicate that a fear of the Indian Warrior was largely responsible for this. Several notable warriors were present at Queenston such as John Brant and John Bearfoot, however, the most important was their war chief John Norton."
For those who would minimize the psychological impact of the native forces, I need only point out that in the early stages of the war, Brock had captured Fort Detroit not by force of arms but rather by making the Americans aware of the presence of Native warriors in his forces.
The support of Six Nations warriors made it possible for the successful defense of Upper Canada. Pierre Berton has a two volume history of the war that should be required reading in Canada. His conclusion was that it was a war fought without a winner. The only loser in the conflict turned out to be the natives who were so integral to the British defense. That is truly sad to realize
Much of the American force was militia, local residents who had been called up to defend their state. They refused to cross the Niagara River to take the fight into Canada. As you suggest, many feared the native defenders, but they said they'd signed up to defend, not to invade.
Don't give all the credit to the natives, they did indeed play a large role in defending Canada, but don't say it like it was just them.
and a McDonnell who are we?
It wasnt just us who stopped the Yankee hordes! 12 Mohawk leaders did at this place, with other warriors. And nobody knows. Not one Honor song for theyre sacrifice for Canada. Such disrespect. I'm suprised they helped us in the two World Wars. Even after that, they were still insulted and treated like dirt.
John Norton was there. My Great Great Grandfather bought his farm from him, in the Caledonia area
You say nobody knows, but it is taught in the Canadian education system, so that is false.
acerb45666555 your a Brit arnt you?
I was never taught about Brock or MacDonell in the Canadian education system. I'm glad I found out on my own.
amazing how the tide of a battle can change by killing one man. Macdonnell was about to win when he died. his death caused the collapse of the British (Canadian militia actually) troops. 80 men against 400 and he had them on the run. then he died and everything went to hell. the fate of one man can determine the fate of nations. like how Antony's fleet was wiped out after he went after Cleopatra. How the legions of Varrus were slaughtered after the General took his own life. IF there are any veterans on this page, please tell me why hundreds or even thousands of men suddenly lose the ability to win when one man dies.
Except the British won the Battle of Queenston Heights. Yes, Brock's initial assault failed when he and all but one of his immediate subordinates, including Macdonnell, were killed or rendered hors de combat. However, that didn't mean his men lost 'the ability to win', given that they *did* win later in the day.
The Canadian militia that followed Macdonnell were repulsed. A fresh company of regulars showed up later in the day and won. The men who followed MacDonnel did not retake the heights. they were going to then he died and their assault failed.
"Everything went to hell."
Or they recalled until reinforcements arrived and they ended up winning. It is sad and interesting though how one lucky bullet can change the whole battle. He could have been known as the man who lead 80 mean up a hill and beat 400.
80 irregulars against 400 infantry. in the end an actual infantry regiment won the battle, but MacDonnell's militia were routed after he died. Victory in their grasp then he died and they collapsed.
they get demorilised because they loose someone who they could trust abd follow
The exceptions don't usually partake in that.. shit
Cant say why i am here. But iam. German.
It was General Sheaffe who won the battle of Queenston hieghts. MacDonnell followed Brock in a useless charge that got them both killed. So,let's remember the man who won the battle.
Stan Rogers a Canadian Nationalist surprised he never wrote about the burning of Washington DC
Three Dead Trolls in a Baggie took care of that though....
I'd never heard that song. It's hilarious. Thanks
PALMEIRAS NÃO TEM MUNDIAL
MacDonnell - the forgotten hero of Queenston Heights.
Brock was a fool who rushed into battle and got killed for it
MacDonnell held things together and saved the day for Canada.
SteveZodiac2001 Brock transfered Captain William's 2 Grenadier companies from the Heights which were Captain Dennis's right flank and the high land. Brock ordered Captain William's to shore up a misconstrued landing of 2 batteaux's of American 13th Regiment, approximately 60 men who landed at Hamilton's Cove by error as they lost the eddie.
Brock through it was the start of a landing to attack the left flank to cut off Fort George but it was just a mistake.
After the heights fell and the Redan Battery was overrun by Captain Wool and his men, Brock led the charge with those men at hand above the docks when he realized he blew it. Brock assembled these men from Captain Chisholm's and Captain Applegarth's 2nd York flank companies along with Captain Hatt's flank company from the 5th Lincoln, supplemented with a mixture of 8th and 49th Infantry that were handy.
Major General Brock should have been court marshaled for such a military blunder but instead he is held in honour.
The jacket on display at the War Museum is not the one he was wearing when he fell, but that's another story.
Lieutenant Colonel McDonnell made it to the battery forcing the Yanks to spike the 18 Pound canon and the other artillery pieces present. He was shot in the back and died a painful death at Durham's house near Voortman's Point to the south later that day.
terrydwhelan@gmail.com
Major General Sir Isaac Brock understood the importance of the heights, and died defending the Dominion of Canada against its invaders, despite the cost. Never direct men to go where you aren't prepared to go yourself. I'm sure MacDonell was thinking this when he took command.
Wow, I'm surprised the comments haven't been flooded with misplaced nationalism.