Rights Managed > Historic England > Landscapes > Coastal Landscapes
Fog Battery, Lundy Island DP196568
Filename: DP196568.jpg
Size: 3482 x 5238 (13.1MB)
Date: 20th June 2017
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive.James O
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Urgency (1-8) 5=normal: 5
Source: Historic England Images
Job Title: Staff Photographer
© Historic England Archive
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Fog Battery, Lundy Island DP196568
Fog Battery, Acklands Moor, Lundy Island, Devon. The fog signal station, constructed by Trinity House in 1863 when the limitations of the Old Lighthouse (constructed 1819-20), when thick fog covered the island, were recognised. It was constructed of dressed, roughly-coursed granite, with 2ft high walls and a corrugated iron roof bound with iron hoops. In the event of accidental explosion, this construction would allow the force to be taken by the roof rather than the walls. The idea of the battery was to warn shipping off the rocks by means of ten-minute interval firings with an eighteen pound canon. View from south east
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 14727825
© Historic England Archive
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the historic Fog Battery on Lundy Island, Devon. Constructed in 1863 by Trinity House, this fog signal station was a crucial addition to the island's maritime safety measures. The need for such a structure arose when it became evident that the Old Lighthouse, built between 1819 and 1820, was insufficient during thick fog conditions. Made of meticulously dressed granite blocks arranged in rough courses, the battery featured two-foot-high walls and a roof made of corrugated iron bound with sturdy iron hoops. This design aimed to protect against accidental explosions by ensuring that any force would be absorbed by the roof rather than damaging the walls. The primary purpose of this battery was to warn passing ships about treacherous rocks nearby. Every ten minutes, an eighteen-pound cannon would fire off as part of its signaling routine. Standing proudly amidst its rugged coastal surroundings, this Victorian-era structure served as a vital beacon for mariners navigating these perilous waters. Photographer James O. Davies skillfully captured this scene from the southeast perspective, showcasing both the architectural details of the Fog Battery and its stunning natural backdrop. Through his lens, we are transported back in time to witness an important chapter in maritime history while appreciating Lundy Island's enduring beauty.
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