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 in Bodmin, Cornwall. It was an important place for training soldiers for over 100 years.
Contents
History of Victoria Barracks
The barracks were built in 1859. They included a main building called a keep, along with stables and a parade ground. A parade ground is a large open area where soldiers practice marching and drills.
Changes to the Barracks
In 1873, the British Army made some big changes. These were called the Cardwell Reforms. The army decided that each county should have a special place to train its soldiers. Victoria Barracks became the main training base, or 'depot,' for two army groups: the 32nd (Cornwall) Regiment of Foot and the 46th (South Devonshire) Regiment of Foot.
Later, in 1881, these two groups joined together because of the Childers Reforms. They formed a new group called the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry. Victoria Barracks became their main training base. At this time, the keep became the gatehouse. A hospital and homes for married soldiers were also added.
Barracks in Wartime
During the Second World War, Victoria Barracks was a busy place. It was used as a training centre for infantry soldiers. Infantry are soldiers who fight on foot.
In 1959, the barracks became the main base for the Somerset and Cornwall Light Infantry. This continued until 1968, when the regiment was disbanded. After that, the barracks were no longer used by the army.
Bodmin Keep: Cornwall's Army Museum
Today, the old keep building is still standing. It is now home to Bodmin Keep, which is also known as Cornwall's Army Museum. The museum first opened in 1925.
What You Can See at the Museum
The museum has many interesting things to see. You can find old guns, machine guns, maps, and army uniforms. There are also paintings that show army life.
One special item is a Bible that belonged to George Washington. It was captured by the 46th Regiment of Foot in 1777. The museum also displays medals that belonged to Harry Patch, who was one of the last surviving soldiers from World War I. You can also see the Victoria Cross medal that was awarded to Herbert Augustine Carter for his bravery.
