Coalhouse Fort

Coalhouse Fort: A Historical Gem on the Thames

Imagine a time when the lower Thames was guarded by formidable artillery forts, one of which is now known as Coalhouse Fort. Built in the 1860s to protect against seaborne attacks from France, this fort has seen its share of history and evolution.

The Birth of Coalhouse Fort

Wasn’t it a time when tensions were high between Britain and France? In the 1860s, Coalhouse Fort was constructed to safeguard the lower Thames. However, its location on marshy ground posed significant challenges, leading to a lengthy construction process.

The Fort’s Armament

Coalhouse Fort initially served as a front-line fortification with four 24-pounder cannons facing the river. Over time, it was upgraded and expanded between 1847 and 1855 to become a more formidable structure.

The New Design

Imagine the transformation! The fort’s new design included an irregular plan with extended ramparts and enlarged interior. Caponiers and firing positions were added for musketry defense, and a wide water-filled ditch surrounded it, accessible only via a bridge.

A Race Against Time

By the late 1850s, Britain and France were engaged in an arms race. New generation guns had been developed, mounted on fast-moving ironclad warships that posed a threat to naval installations on the Thames. The Royal Commission recommended building a triangle of forts, including Coalhouse Fort.

Construction Challenges

Construction began in July 1861 but faced numerous challenges due to poor ground conditions and shifting foundations. The fort was completed in 1874 with an intended armament of 68-pdr smooth-bore guns, which had become obsolete by the time it was finished.

Adapting to Modern Warfare

As new artillery weapons rapidly developed, Coalhouse Fort’s casemate style became obsolete within a decade. New batteries were built, including six more powerful breech-loading guns in 1891 and smaller quick-firing guns in 1893.

The First World War

During the First World War, Coalhouse Fort took on new roles. Manned by No. 2 Company, Royal Garrison Artillery, it controlled river traffic and operated anti-aircraft guns to defend against Zeppelins and enemy bombers.

The Second World War

By the early 1940s, Coalhouse Fort was re-equipped with 5.5-inch guns in July 1941, replacing the existing 6-inch guns. These had a range of 12,500 yards and were installed in two old 6-inch emplacements.

Enhancements for Defence

The fort’s defences were enhanced with a steel shelter on the roof to protect the guns, which were camouflaged with netting. A brick observation post provided range-finding, and two remotely controlled searchlights illuminated the riverside below.

Post-War Uses

After the war, Coalhouse Fort was used for Combined Operations training after 1946. Its structure was modified to isolate casemates from explosive shells in the 1880s, adding concrete traverses and pillars.

The Modern Era

Today, Coalhouse Fort is a well-preserved mid-Victorian armoured casemate. It has twelve casemates facing south and east, with massive granite slabs and iron gun ports. The fort’s structure was modified to isolate casemates from explosive shells in the 1880s.

Preservation Efforts

From being decommissioned and leased for storage by Bata Shoes, then used as emergency housing for demobilised servicemen, Coalhouse Fort has seen various uses. In 2005, it was featured in the film Batman Begins; listed on Heritage at Risk Register in 2008.

Future Prospects

The future of Coalhouse Fort looks promising with ongoing preservation efforts and recognition as a scheduled monument. Funding from Historic England has been secured, ensuring that this historical gem continues to stand tall for generations to come.

Coalhouse Fort stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of British military engineering. Its journey from a front-line fortification to an emergency battery during World War II, and its current status as a preserved historical site, is a fascinating tale that continues to inspire awe.