Sunday, February 9, 2014

World War One site secrets revealed

Scotland's World War One site secrets revealed in audit

St Kilda Gun emplacement A St Kilda gun emplacement is one site in the audit

Previously unknown details about sites and structures established for the defence of Scotland in World War One have been revealed after an audit.

It was commissioned by Historic Scotland and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS).

There were anti-invasion defences in 39 places, with the majority located around Edinburgh and East Lothian.

All of the records are available to view online.

The audit has allowed the records of 900 buildings and places to be created or updated.

'Invaluable' audit

Among the records are details of 239 hospitals - including village halls - 64 air stations, 39 prisoner of war camps, 20 firing ranges, 15 barrack and military accommodation sites, and 11 naval dockyards.

The audit's author, Dr Gordon Barclay, said: "The audit has more than tripled the number of places known to be associated with Scotland's contribution, both military and civilian."

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: "Our World War One built heritage is a vital part of our historic environment and is key to educating us about Scotland's role in the conflict.

"This audit will prove invaluable to our understanding of how every community played its part."


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