Victoria Barracks, Bodmin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Victoria Barracks, Bodmin |
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| Bodmin | |
The keep, now a museum
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 Victoria Barracks, Bodmin
Location within Cornwall
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| Coordinates | 50°27′55″N 04°42′54″W / 50.46528°N 4.71500°W |
| Type | Barracks |
| Site information | |
| Operator |  British Army |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1859 |
| Built for | War Office |
| In use | 1859-1968 |
| Garrison information | |
| Occupants | Somerset and Cornwall Light Infantry |
Victoria Barracks was a military base located in Bodmin, a town in Cornwall, England. It served as an important place for soldiers for over a hundred years.
Contents
What Were Victoria Barracks?
Victoria Barracks was a military site where soldiers lived and trained. It was built in 1859 and was used by the British Army until 1968. Today, part of the barracks is a museum.
The Start of the Barracks
The barracks first opened in 1859. It had a main building called a keep, which was like a strong tower. There were also stables for horses and a large area for soldiers to practice, called a parade ground.
Changes Over Time
In 1873, the British Army changed how it recruited soldiers. Each county got its own recruiting area. Victoria Barracks became the main base, or "depot," for two regiments: the 32nd (Cornwall) Regiment of Foot and the 46th (South Devonshire) Regiment of Foot.
Later, in 1881, these two regiments joined together. They formed a new group called the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry. Victoria Barracks continued to be their main base. At this time, the old keep became a gatehouse. New buildings were added, including a hospital and homes for married soldiers and their families.
The Barracks During Wartime
During the Second World War, Victoria Barracks was a busy place. It was used as a training center for infantry soldiers. Infantry are soldiers who fight on foot.
In 1959, the barracks became the depot for the Somerset and Cornwall Light Infantry. This regiment used the barracks until it was disbanded, or officially stopped existing, in 1968.
Bodmin Keep: Cornwall's Army Museum
Even though the barracks closed in 1968, the original keep building is still standing. It is now home to Bodmin Keep, which is also known as Cornwall's Army Museum.
What You Can See at the Museum
The museum first opened its doors in 1925. It has many interesting things for visitors to see. You can find old weapons like small arms and machine guns. There are also maps, military uniforms, and paintings.
One special item on display is a Bible that once belonged to George Washington. This Bible was captured by the 46th Regiment of Foot in 1777 during a war. The museum also shows medals that belonged to Harry Patch, a famous soldier. Another important item is the Victoria Cross medal awarded to Herbert Augustine Carter. The Victoria Cross is the highest military award for bravery in the United Kingdom.
