Defences: Partridge Island: Heritage Resources Saint John

Page 10

In Times of War

During World War One (1914-1918), Partridge Island defended Saint John's port facilities. The island was equipped with six 4.7 inch field guns and a searchlight. Hospitals were used as barracks.

After World War One, Admiral Jellicoe recommended that a 6-inch gun battery be installed for the next war. This did not happen until World War Two had started. Two 6 inch naval guns and two 18 pounder field guns were installed for counter-bombardment, close defence, and support to the naval examination service. This is gun #1 "Item #22b on Map"

Some of Partridge Island's natural beauty was destroyed during World War Two. Trees were cleared to prevent the enemy from hiding amongst them. Several underground magazines, two observation posts, and gun and searchlight emplacements were built. These are three of the underground rooms that are now sealed off.

This observation post was designed to appear like a summer cottage. "Item #20 on Map"

The defences were closed in 1947. Once the military left, the buildings were vandalized. In 1955, most military and quarantine buildings were demolished by the federal government to avoid further vandalism.

5 more