Cameron Blockhouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cameron Blockhouse |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| General information | |
| Type | Blockhouse, fort |
| Town or city | Wanganui |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Coordinates | 39°58′24″S 175°07′25″E / 39.97341°S 175.12362°E |
| Completed | c. 1868 |
| Renovated | 1979, 1988-90 |
| Technical details | |
| Structural system | Timber framed, clay infill |
The Cameron Blockhouse is a strong timber building in Whanganui, New Zealand. It was built during the New Zealand Wars in the mid-1800s. This blockhouse is special because it's one of the few remaining private forts from that time.
What is a Blockhouse?
A blockhouse is like a small, strong fort. It is usually made from thick timber or stone. These buildings were designed to protect people during times of conflict. They often had small openings for defenders to watch and shoot from.
Why Was It Built?
The Cameron Blockhouse was built by a man named John Cameron. He bought the land, called Marangai, in 1841. Around 1868, he decided to build this blockhouse.
John Cameron wanted to protect his family. He was worried about possible conflicts with Māori groups led by Riwha Titokowaru. Titokowaru had been successful in battles in south Taranaki and was moving towards Wanganui. Other events, like those in Poverty Bay, also made settlers feel worried.
How Was It Built?
The Cameron Blockhouse was designed to be very strong.
- The floor was made of packed earth.
- The walls were double-layered using totara wood.
- The space between the two layers of wood was filled with clay. This clay helped stop bullets and protected the building from fire.
- The roof was made of corrugated iron.
This design made the blockhouse a very safe place for the Cameron family during a time of uncertainty.
