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| Following the American Civil War, the British became concerned that the victorious Union would take revenge for their support of the Confederacy. To protect the Royal Naval Dockyard against a possible land attack the British Army’s Royal Engineers began construction of Scaur Hill Fort in the late 1860’s. It was a huge project involving the excavation of a dry moat cutting right across Somerset Island from Ely’s Harbour to the Great Sound. Ramparts were constructed on the northern side of the ditch, creating a killing zone below. The fort was protected by two 64 pound guns mounted on disappearing carriages that recoiled for reloading after they had been fired. One of the guns is still here. The feared American invasion never materialised. They did eventually gain control of Scaur Hill Fort, albeit welcomed, when US forces were stationed here during World War II. These days the fort is the centrepiece of a pleasant park. The ramparts offer spectacular views of Ely’s Harbour and the Great Sound, and the moat has been rejuvenated as a floral garden. |
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