St Anthony Battery facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Anthony Battery |
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| St Anthony Head Cornwall England |
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The excavated and restored eastern gun emplacement of St Anthony Battery.
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| Site information | |
| Owner | National Trust |
| Open to the public |
Yes |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1895-97 |
| In use | 1897-1956 |
St Anthony Battery is an old military fort located at St Anthony Head in Cornwall, England. It was built a long time ago, between 1895 and 1897. This battery was very important during both World War I and World War II, helping to protect the coast. After it was no longer needed by the military in 1956, a group called the National Trust took care of it. Now, you can visit this historic site and learn about its past!
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Why Was St Anthony Battery Built?
St Anthony Battery was built to protect the entrance of the River Fal. This river leads to a very important harbor. The battery was finished in 1897.
Early Guns and Upgrades
When it was first built, the battery had two large guns. These were called BL 6-inch Mk VI naval guns. They were powerful weapons used to stop enemy ships. A few years later, in 1903-1904, these guns were replaced. The new ones were even better, called BL 6-inch Mk VII naval guns. These guns stayed at the battery until 1924.
St Anthony Battery During World War II
After 1924, the battery was not actively used for a while. But when World War II started, it became important again! The battery was re-equipped with two 6-inch Mk VII guns. Two smaller guns, called Ordnance QF 3-pounder Vickers, were also placed nearby.
The battery also had another special job. It worked with Half Moon Battery at Pendennis Castle. Together, they acted as an "examination battery." This meant they would check ships trying to enter the harbor. They made sure no enemy ships could sneak in.
What Happened After the Wars?
After World War II, big coastal forts like St Anthony Battery were no longer needed. In 1956, the military stopped using them. The two places where the big guns stood were filled with earth and rubble.
The National Trust Takes Over
In 1959, the National Trust bought the battery site. The National Trust is a charity that protects important historical places and natural areas.
Restoring the Battery
In 2012, an exciting project took place. One of the old gun positions was dug out and fixed up. This was part of a project called "Unlocking our Coastal Heritage." The goal was to make historical sites along the South West Coast Path more interesting for visitors.
Today, St Anthony Battery is open to everyone. You can explore the site and imagine what it was like during the wars. During busy times of the year, the National Trust even offers tours!
