Tufton Street drill hall facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tufton Street drill hall |
|
|---|---|
| Westminster, London | |
Tufton Street drill hall
|
|
 Tufton Street drill hall
Location within London
|
|
| Coordinates | 51°29′51″N 0°07′43″W / 51.49745°N 0.12853°W |
| Type | Drill Hall |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1899 |
| Built for | War Office |
| In use | 1899–1946 |
The Tufton Street drill hall is an old building in Westminster, London. It used to be a place where soldiers trained and gathered. Today, it has a new purpose, serving as a music center for a school.
Contents
A Building with History
This building was finished in 1899. It was first built to be the main office for a group called the 23rd Middlesex Rifle Volunteer Corps. These were like local soldiers who volunteered to serve.
Early Military Use
In 1908, the 23rd Middlesex Rifle Volunteer Corps changed its name. It became the 2nd (City of London) Battalion, London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers). A "battalion" is a large group of soldiers.
World War I Service
When World War I started in August 1914, the soldiers from this battalion were called into action. They gathered at the drill hall. First, they helped guard railways. After that, they traveled to Malta and then to the Western Front. The Western Front was a very important battle area in France and Belgium during the war.
Changes Over Time
In August 1937, the London Regiment was reorganized. Different battalions were moved to other military groups. The Tufton Street drill hall then became the home of the 9th (2nd City of London) Battalion The Royal Fusiliers (City of London Regiment).
After World War II
After World War II, in April 1946, the 9th Battalion was put on hold. This meant the soldiers were no longer active, and the drill hall became empty.
New Purpose for the Hall
The building stayed empty for some time. In the late 1980s, it was changed to be used for businesses. Now, the Tufton Street drill hall is home to the Westminster School Music Centre. It's a place where students learn and practice music.
