Blacknor Fort facts for kids
Blacknor Fort is an old military building from the 1900s. It is a fort found on the Isle of Portland in Dorset, England. You can find it on the western side of Portland, near the village of Weston.
History of Blacknor Fort
Blacknor Fort was built between 1900 and 1902. Its main job was to protect the coast. It watched over Lyme Bay to keep Portland Harbour safe. Other important naval places on the island also needed protection.
The fort was used during both World War I and World War II. It had two large 9.2-inch guns. These guns were ready to defend the area.
Blacknor Fort During World War II
During World War II, something important happened near the fort. On April 27, 1944, American soldiers were training. They were practicing beach landings at Slapton Sands. This training exercise was called Exercise Tiger.
German E-Boats attacked the training ships. The soldiers at Blacknor Fort saw what was happening. However, they were told not to fire their guns. This was to avoid accidentally hitting their own Allied troops. Sadly, many American soldiers and sailors lost their lives during this event.
After the Wars
Blacknor Fort stopped being used by the military in 1956. Today, it is owned by private individuals. The fort has been divided into three separate homes. One of these homes was built on top of an old gun position.
Outside the main fort area, you can still see some parts. There are two smaller gun positions. An observation post also remains on the cliff edge.
