Barrett Point facts for kids
Barrett Point is a place near Prince Rupert Harbour in Canada. It's at the bottom of Mount Hayes. During World War II, it was a strong fort built to protect the coast. You can find its exact spot using these coordinates: 54°14′28″N 130°20′02″W / 54.24111°N 130.33389°W.
Contents
History of Barrett Point
Why Barrett Point Was Important
The city of Prince Rupert was very important during World War II. It was the closest train stop to Alaska. This made it a key location for defending both Alaska and the west coast of Canada. Barrett Point was the most important part of Prince Rupert's defenses during the war.
In 1938, a military officer named Major Treatt looked at Canada's west coast. He decided where to build forts to protect the coast. Barrett Point became the main fort. Other gun batteries were also built nearby at Fredrick Point, Casey Point, Fairview Point, and Dundas Point.
Guns and Equipment at the Fort
The fort at Barrett Point had three main gun positions. At first, they had large 6-inch anti-aircraft guns. These were later replaced with even stronger 6-inch guns. The fort also had a smaller, fast-firing 6-pounder gun. To protect against planes, there were two 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns.
All these guns were controlled from a special "director station." This station was located behind and above the middle gun. It helped aim the guns correctly. Ammunition for the guns was kept safe underground in a "magazine." An electric lift, called a "hoist," brought the ammunition up to each gun.
Behind the main guns, hidden by the hill, was a strong building for generators. Other support buildings were also there. Along the shoreline in front of the fort, two large searchlight towers stood. These lights would shine on ships or planes. Their positions helped the director station aim the guns. An observation post was also set up high above the fort on top of Mount Hayes.
Who Manned the Fort?
Soldiers from the Northern British Columbia heavy battery of the Royal Canadian Artillery operated the guns. Later, this group was called the 102nd Coast Battery of the 17th North British Columbia Coast Regiment.
It's not clear exactly when the fort stopped operating. As the war went on, the danger of attack lessened. Many soldiers from the fort were sent to fight elsewhere. It seems the guns were removed sometime between September 1945 and the end of 1946. The last coastal defenses on Canada's West Coast, at Fort Rodd Hill, closed in 1958.
Barrett Point Today
Today, many of the fort's old structures are covered by plants. However, you can still see them if you walk around. If you visit, please be careful! There are open areas and old bunkers that are not marked. It's best not to go inside the bunkers unless you have special safety gear and someone experienced with you.
Images for kids
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One of the gun positions as it looks today
