Sunset Retreat Ceremony -- RCMP Depot, Regina SK CAN - Saskatchewan Historical Markers on Waymarking.com

A historical marker at this field gun used in the Sunset Retreat Ceremony at the RCMP Depot in Regina share some interesting history of how this gun was used to signal the end of the day in Regina and other cities with military post stationed within their boundaries.

The sign reads as follows:

"SUNSET RETREAT CEREMONY

This tradition dates back to the 17th century and is referred to as a "military tattoo". The term "tattoo" is derived from a Dutch phrase meaning "turn off the tap" and comes to us from a time when a soldier's life was strictly controlled by his regiment. The daily routine of a military post was signaled by the beat of a drum. At sunset, a lone drummer was sent into the streets of town to beat out a tattoo. It was the signal for tavern owners to close down for the night and for military personnel to return to the post. Once they were back, the flag was lowered in a ceremony marking the end of another day."

Marker type: informational sign Marker placement date: Not listed

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Date Logged Log User Rating   05/05/2023 Benchmark Blasterz visited it