Drill Hall Road Army Reserve Centre, Newport, Isle of Wight facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Drill Hall Road Army Reserve Centre |
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| Newport, Isle of Wight | |
Drill Hall Road Army Reserve Centre
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 Drill Hall Road Army Reserve Centre
Location in Isle of Wight
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| Coordinates | 50°41′56″N 1°17′59″W / 50.69899°N 1.29976°W |
| Type | Drill hall |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1860 |
| Built for | War Office |
| In use | 1860–Present |
The Drill Hall Road Army Reserve Centre is a special military building in Newport, on the Isle of Wight. It has been used by soldiers and cadets for a very long time.
Contents
What is a Drill Hall?
A drill hall is a building where soldiers, especially those in the reserves, practice their drills and training. It's like a special gym and classroom combined for military training. This particular drill hall has been an important place for military training for over 160 years!
History of the Drill Hall
The Drill Hall was built in 1860. It was first made for a group called the Isle of Wight Rifle Volunteers. These were local people who trained to help defend their country if needed.
Early Years and Changes
Over the years, the group using the hall changed its name several times. In 1885, they became part of The Hampshire Regiment. Later, in 1908, they were known as the 8th Battalion, The Hampshire Regiment.
Serving in World War I
When World War I started in August 1914, the soldiers from this battalion gathered at the drill hall. From there, they were sent to India to help with the war effort. This shows how important the drill hall was for preparing soldiers for duty.
Through World War II and Beyond
Before World War II, in 1938, the unit changed again. They became part of the Royal Artillery, which handles large guns. They were called the Princess Beatrice's (Isle of Wight Rifles) Heavy Regiment. They continued to change names and roles, becoming a Coast Regiment in 1940 and 1947. This meant they helped protect the coast.
Modern Day Use
Since the 1950s, the number of soldiers based at the hall has changed. Today, the Drill Hall Road Army Reserve Centre is still very active. It is used by the Army Reserve, which are part-time soldiers who train in their spare time. It is also a busy centre for the Army Cadet Force. This is a youth organization where young people can learn military skills and develop leadership.
