WW2 Granton Harbour Defence Hut
by Yvonne Johnstone
Title
WW2 Granton Harbour Defence Hut
Artist
Yvonne Johnstone
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
Derelict WW2 Granton Harbour Defence Hut (now a protected listed building). This is one of two such structures on the West (harbour side) of the East Breakwater. Known as Pillboxes, they are made of concrete and metal, are flat-roofed and supported on stilts over the sloping embankment wall.
The harbour at Granton was a naval base from 14 August 1914 to 15 July 1919. The base initially held 29 trawlers and three yachts, employed in patrol work and minesweeping, and grew through the war to 300 ships, serviced by 400 officers, 8000 men and 300 Wren officers and ratings. From 1915 Granton became a base for the fitting out and operation of "Q" Ships, merchantmen and trawlers fitted with hidden weapons, to lure in and then attack German submarines. From 1916 onwards more German mines were placed on the east coast and the role of the Granton minesweepers became more important. The Granton boats were also responsible for the maintenance and operation of the permanent anti-submarine booms and for temporary, mobile nets that were deployed to protect the Grand Fleet when training in the lower part of the estuary. After the Armistice the base was engaged in mine clearance.
During World War II, the harbour again was used for naval purposes, and perhaps as a result was the target of an air raid in 1940 when houses nearby were hit.
Uploaded
April 23rd, 2019
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