Duke of York's Headquarters facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Duke of York's Headquarters |
|
|---|---|
| Chelsea, London | |
The Duke of York's Headquarters in December 2009
|
|
 Duke of York's Headquarters
Location within London
|
|
| Coordinates | 51°29′26″N 0°09′32″W / 51.4906°N 0.1589°W |
| Type | Drill Hall |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1801 |
| Built for | War Office |
| Architect | John Sanders |
| In use | 1801–present |
The Duke of York's Headquarters is a famous building in Chelsea, London. It is located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. This building was finished in 1801. Because of its important history and special design, it was made a "listed building" in 1969. This means it is protected and cannot be changed easily.
Contents
History of the Headquarters
The Duke of York's Headquarters was finished in 1801. It was designed by John Sanders. He also designed the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
From School to Military Base
When it first opened, the building was called the Royal Military Asylum. It was a school for children whose fathers were soldiers and had passed away. In 1892, the school's name changed to the Duke of York's Royal Military School.
In 1909, the school moved to a new place in Dover. The building in Chelsea was then taken over by the Territorial Army. In 1911, it was renamed the Duke of York's Barracks.
The Headquarters During World Wars
During the First World War, the building was an important base. It served as the headquarters for the 18th (County of London) Battalion, London Regiment (London Irish Rifles). It was also used by the Middlesex Yeomanry.
In the Second World War, the building continued to be used for important military activities.
Modern Use and Restoration
In 1980, the building was carefully restored and updated. This big project cost about £1.5 million. At that time, it was the main headquarters for the Territorial Army in Greater London. Many different military units and groups used the building. These included parachute field ambulance teams and special air service regiments.
The building also housed offices for military charities. These included the Army Benevolent Fund and the Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen's Families Association.
New Life for the Site
The land where the headquarters stands was sold in the early 2000s. It was bought by Cadogan Estates. They redeveloped the area into a new place called Duke of York Square.
This new development includes a public square, fancy homes, and shops. A big part of the site is now home to the Saatchi Gallery. This famous art gallery moved there in 2008.
Local Schools and the Headquarters
Some local schools use parts of the Duke of York's Headquarters site. Hill House School, a prep school, uses the field for sports and activities. They also have their yearly "field day" there.
Another prep school, Garden House, uses Cavalry House. This is a part of the Duke of York's Headquarters on Turks Row. Cavalry House became a listed building in 1998.
