Life in the Royal Arsenal - Roy Masters 1993 (audio history)
500 years of the Royal Arsenal - by Ian Bull
300
Roman Cremation Pottery found on the South West sector of Dial Square and on the site of the power station. The findings are in the Greenwich Heritage centre and British Museum.
1488
in 1911 during the construction of the Power station the remains of a ship was found. Strong indications suggest it was the Sovereign of the Seas.
1512 - 1671
The early origins of the Royal Arsenal lie with the creation of a dockyard in Woolwich by Henry VIII. The yard, located just to the east of the present ferry terminal was originally built for the construction of 'The Great Harry'. Land further east of the yard, known as 'The Warren' was used for testing guns and a gun wharf constructed in 1546.
1515
Henry VIII ordered the building of the Henry Grace a Dieu in 1515 . A store house and gun yard were already inbeing. Guns captured by Sir Francis Drake were stored there, Ropes were also manufactured. Recent investigations by the Woolwich Heritage centre indicate that the original site for the dock yard was a lot closer to the Arsenal it was in fact on the site of the Woolwich power station (pulled down in the 1980s)
1538
A series of land exchanges between Sir Martin Bowes and Sir Edward Boughton ended up with Bowes owning the lands around Tower place on which now stands the Brass foundry and the remains of the Royal Laboratory. Bowes enclosed six acres of grounds around Tower Place .On this area he had ponds dug and stocked with fish as well as establishing a rabbit Warren (Suggest this is where the name of the site came from Royal Warren and still recognised with the Warren Gate)
1556
Sir Martin Bowes died in 1566, he left the the Tower area developed with a wharf, a Brew house and several cottages. His son Sir Thomas inherited the property and lands
1559
July 1559 Queen Elizabeth 1 visited Woolwich to launch her ship the Elizabeth Jonas
1568
Sir Thomas Bowes sold Tower Place to John Peers.
1573
A Ropeyard was built close to the Tower Place. The building was 600ft long and it was built by Thomas Allen the Queens Purveyor. Production lasted for about 20 years . Production resumed in 1610 under government control
1586
First record of Ordnance storage began in 1586, at that time a purpose built storage facility and other made good buildings were made good. (It is very probable that Ordnance was stored before this time).
1588
A temporary battery was set up behind the Gun Wharf as part of the defences against the Spanish.
1642
A record of 1642 shows that 75 pieces of Ordnance were stored on Gun Wharf. The Wharf extended to Bell Watergate (Bell Water gate still in place next to the Woolwich swimming baths 2009)
August 1642 a Captain Willoughby came to woolwich with a force of Parliamentarian Volunteers to sieze guns stored in the Dockyard. This was to prevent them being shipped to Newcastle for use in King Charles cause. Sir William Barne (the occupier of Tower place) opposed this. As a result the tower and surounding buildings were searched and revealed a trunk of silver plate worth £1000 and robes and Catholic books. Every thing was seized and Barnes arrested and taken to the Tower of London
August 1642 a Captain Willoughby came to woolwich with a force of Parliamentarian Volunteers to sieze guns stored in the Dockyard. This was to prevent them being shipped to Newcastle for use in King Charles cause. Sir William Barne (the occupier of Tower place) opposed this. As a result the tower and surounding buildings were searched and revealed a trunk of silver plate worth £1000 and robes and Catholic books. Every thing was seized and Barnes arrested and taken to the Tower of London
1651
Proof butts were set up for ordnance trials of material manufactured for the Crown
Three Proof Butts were set up for the trial of ordnance manufactured by
contractors to the Crown.
contractors to the Crown.
1666
1666 it was recorded that Tower Place included a rope walk and manufactury
1667
Prince Rupert was ordered by his cousin, Charles II, to raise batteries
at Woolwich as protection against the Dutch. As a result 60 guns
were mounted on the riverside on the site of the present West Wharf.
at Woolwich as protection against the Dutch. As a result 60 guns
were mounted on the riverside on the site of the present West Wharf.
1668
In 1668 Guns, carriages and stores were transferred from Deptford to Woolwich along with the instruction that all new equipment will be held at Woolwich
1670
The first Storekeeper was appointed.
1671
Tower Place, which was a Tudor mansion of considerable size, was
purchased by the Crown for £2,950 on the site of the present Academy building.
purchased by the Crown for £2,950 on the site of the present Academy building.
1676
Gun Wharf at the site of Building 45 was purchased by the crown
1682
Tower Place was altered to accommodate the Storekeeper, Master Gunner of England and the Lieutenant General of Ordnance
1683
Gun Carriage shop built in Carnage square
1694
The Principal Officers of the Ordnance gave an estimate to the Treasury for a new Laboratory to be erected (now Building A.l5) which was completed in 1696. The Laboratory consisted of two ranges of buildings with a courtyard between, the remains of which can be seen in the existing building where the original centre section can be traced and at the centre's of the East and West sides the original doorways survive with stone surrounds; also the Royal Cypher of William III can be seen. In the pediment above the present roof. The courtyard was roofed over in 1854.
1695
In 1695 it was decided by the Board of Ordnance to move the "Barn" at Greenwich (manufacture of powder and filling of shells) away from the populated area of Greenwich to the more remote Royal Warren were it was called the Royal Laboratory
1696
The Laboratory was completed in 1696. It consisted of two ranges of buildings with a courtyard between. One building still carries the Royal Cipher of William III. The buildings were roofed over in 1854. Building A15
1700
By 1700 it was recognised that the Warren had the largest gun repository in the country
1702
The area of the Warren was 42 acres
1716
The Royal Artillery was formed
In May of this year captured guns were being recast at Mr Bagley’s Foundry at Windmill, Upper Moorfields, in the present City Road, London, with a number of distinguished people present, when, due to dampness there was an explosion which killed 17 people, including Mr Bagley and his son, and many others were injured.
In June, 1716, the Board of Ordnance ordered:
‘That a proposal and estimate be made for building a Royal Brass Foundry at His Majesty’s Tower Place at Woolwich and that no time be lost therein......`
It would seem that there was no delay as we learn that in April, 1717, Mr Green, a Stonecutter, presented a Draught of the Kings Armes which he offered to perform, and in July of that year, after a visit of the Duke of Marlborough, Master—General of Ordnance, Mr Green was
employed to cut the Duke’s Arms upon the keystone. Although prior to 1719 alterations to the fabric had been carried Out, the main elevation is now more or less as drawn by Sandby in 1779.
The building is in the Vanbrugh manner and it is generally conceded that it was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh.
Over the inner archway can be seen the names of the Master Founders, Andrew Schalch was the first Master and remained in this post from his appointment in 1716 until 1770, when he was succeeded by John and Peter Verbruggen.
The Royal Regiment of Artillery formed.
Corps of Royal Engineers formed - The Corps of Engineers was established as a separate corps by Royal Warrant of 26 May 1716. Previously both the Royal Regiment of Artillery and the The Corps of Engineers had been branches of the Ordnance Board. (Info re Corps of Royal Engineers supplied by David Walker, ex-sapper.)
Captured guns were being re cast at Mr Bagleys Foundry at Windmill Upper Moorfield on the site of the present city road, with a number of distinguished present when the process exploded due to excessive dampness. Seventeen people were killed. The board of Ordnance ordered the facilitites be made ready at Woolwich to undertake future casting of guns. The Royal Brass Foundry was functioning by 1717. The building was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh.
In May of this year captured guns were being recast at Mr Bagley’s Foundry at Windmill, Upper Moorfields, in the present City Road, London, with a number of distinguished people present, when, due to dampness there was an explosion which killed 17 people, including Mr Bagley and his son, and many others were injured.
In June, 1716, the Board of Ordnance ordered:
‘That a proposal and estimate be made for building a Royal Brass Foundry at His Majesty’s Tower Place at Woolwich and that no time be lost therein......`
It would seem that there was no delay as we learn that in April, 1717, Mr Green, a Stonecutter, presented a Draught of the Kings Armes which he offered to perform, and in July of that year, after a visit of the Duke of Marlborough, Master—General of Ordnance, Mr Green was
employed to cut the Duke’s Arms upon the keystone. Although prior to 1719 alterations to the fabric had been carried Out, the main elevation is now more or less as drawn by Sandby in 1779.
The building is in the Vanbrugh manner and it is generally conceded that it was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh.
Over the inner archway can be seen the names of the Master Founders, Andrew Schalch was the first Master and remained in this post from his appointment in 1716 until 1770, when he was succeeded by John and Peter Verbruggen.
The Royal Regiment of Artillery formed.
Corps of Royal Engineers formed - The Corps of Engineers was established as a separate corps by Royal Warrant of 26 May 1716. Previously both the Royal Regiment of Artillery and the The Corps of Engineers had been branches of the Ordnance Board. (Info re Corps of Royal Engineers supplied by David Walker, ex-sapper.)
Captured guns were being re cast at Mr Bagleys Foundry at Windmill Upper Moorfield on the site of the present city road, with a number of distinguished present when the process exploded due to excessive dampness. Seventeen people were killed. The board of Ordnance ordered the facilitites be made ready at Woolwich to undertake future casting of guns. The Royal Brass Foundry was functioning by 1717. The building was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh.
1717
The Royal Foundry (Building A.4) was completed.
The ‘Great Pile’ comprising the buildings surrounding Artificers Court and Basin Court were erected. The buildings consisted of Storehouses and Workshops; the range of buildings enclosing the south of Artificers Court are those which can be seen today almost unchanged except that in 1764 a sundial was erected over the Main Entrance. The building which survives was used as a turning, engraving and Smiths shop and the guns cast in the adjacent Foundry would have been machined here. The design of this building is also attributed to Sir John Vanbrugh and is now known as Dial Square A.57. ( Demolished apart from the front range ).
The ‘Great Pile’ comprising the buildings surrounding Artificers Court and Basin Court were erected. The buildings consisted of Storehouses and Workshops; the range of buildings enclosing the south of Artificers Court are those which can be seen today almost unchanged except that in 1764 a sundial was erected over the Main Entrance. The building which survives was used as a turning, engraving and Smiths shop and the guns cast in the adjacent Foundry would have been machined here. The design of this building is also attributed to Sir John Vanbrugh and is now known as Dial Square A.57. ( Demolished apart from the front range ).
1717
Andrew Schalch appointed Master Founder
New Wheelers shop built
The Great Pile comprising buildings surrounding Articifers Court and Basin Court was erected. The building consisted of Storehouses and work shops. The south end of these buildings are still serving as "Dial Square" building A 57. The function of these buildings was machining of the cast barrels from the Brass foundry adjacent. At one time this collection of machine shops was considered the largest in Europe.
New Wheelers shop built
The Great Pile comprising buildings surrounding Articifers Court and Basin Court was erected. The building consisted of Storehouses and work shops. The south end of these buildings are still serving as "Dial Square" building A 57. The function of these buildings was machining of the cast barrels from the Brass foundry adjacent. At one time this collection of machine shops was considered the largest in Europe.
1718
May. Andrew Schalch appointed Master Founder, salary £219 per annum.
1719
Tower Place was demolished in 1719 and replaced with the Royal Military Academy as it still stands. The design is attributed to Sir John Vanbrugh. The building was used as the board room for the Ordnance board. It also functioned as a centre of devine service and also for theatricals by the cadets of the RMA
The RMA was inaugurated in 1741 building A24
Tower Place was demolished in stages and the present building, again attributed to Sir John Vanbrugh, was erected on the same site generally following the plan of the original building — the Tower was demolished in 1786.
The room to the north was the first to be built and was used as a Board Room for the Principal Officers of the Ordnance and was at times also used for Divine Service and theatricals by the Cadets of the Royal Military Academy.
The room to the south was erected in 1721 and,,on the formation of the Royal Military Academy in 1741 was used as the Academy.
The adjoining building (A.23) was erected in 1741 as quarters for the First and Second Masters of the Academy.
Numbers 1 to 4 Dial Square were erected for Officers Quarters, the remainder of the block being used as Barracks for the men. General Borgard ‘Father of the Royal Regiment of Artillery’ at one
time lived in Number 4.
Numbers 5 and 6 were erected as Officers Quarters in about 1794.
Numbers 7 to 10 were erected in 1739, 7 and 10 being Officers Quarters and the remainder of the block being used as barracks for the men.
The RMA was inaugurated in 1741 building A24
Tower Place was demolished in stages and the present building, again attributed to Sir John Vanbrugh, was erected on the same site generally following the plan of the original building — the Tower was demolished in 1786.
The room to the north was the first to be built and was used as a Board Room for the Principal Officers of the Ordnance and was at times also used for Divine Service and theatricals by the Cadets of the Royal Military Academy.
The room to the south was erected in 1721 and,,on the formation of the Royal Military Academy in 1741 was used as the Academy.
The adjoining building (A.23) was erected in 1741 as quarters for the First and Second Masters of the Academy.
Numbers 1 to 4 Dial Square were erected for Officers Quarters, the remainder of the block being used as Barracks for the men. General Borgard ‘Father of the Royal Regiment of Artillery’ at one
time lived in Number 4.
Numbers 5 and 6 were erected as Officers Quarters in about 1794.
Numbers 7 to 10 were erected in 1739, 7 and 10 being Officers Quarters and the remainder of the block being used as barracks for the men.
1728
The Old Carriage Store (Building C.2) was first used, to which additions were made in 1778 and 1802 onward.
1741
The Royal Military Academy was formed at Tower Place. (Note: This subsequently moved to Woolwich Common in 1806).
1742
24Pdr barrels were being proofed when one exploded sending a 400lb section 300yds. The section hit the chimney and crashed through the floor of a building.
1744
The Company of Gentlemen Cadets was formed.
1747
1747 Paul Sandby aged 16 (some times called the Father of British Water colour) applied at the Board of Ordnance for the position of draughtman. By 1768 he was appointed to the position of Chief Drawing Master at the Royal Military Academy. The drawings that he took for his interview at age 16 are held in the British Museum
1751
July. Estimate of £529 for building Cadet’s Barracks.
1752
Cadet’ s Barracks built in `H` Avenue for the Cadets at the Royal Military Academy, along south side of site ( demolished, late 1970s).
1757
New bronze sundial added to the entrance to Dial Square.
By Royal Warrant of 14 May 1757 officers of the Corps of Engineers were given military ranks and commissions in the Army. (Info re Corps of Royal Engineers supplied by David Walker, ex-sapper.)
By Royal Warrant of 14 May 1757 officers of the Corps of Engineers were given military ranks and commissions in the Army. (Info re Corps of Royal Engineers supplied by David Walker, ex-sapper.)
1758
April. Another 11 acres leased from Mr John Maryon.
Barracks were erected for the RMA in H avenue to the east of the Main Gate
Barracks were erected for the RMA in H avenue to the east of the Main Gate
1760
April - The 11 acres leased in 1758, and a further 20 acres - were brought from Mr John Maryon, increasing the Warren’s area from 31 acres to 62.
1770
Feb/March. Andrew Schalch, Master-Foundry since 1716, replaced by Jan Verbruggen, formerly head founder of the United Provinces, together with his brother Peter.
The Verbruggens insisted upon improvements, esp. to the Foundry, most notably a new gun-boring machine (driven by four horses ), which was in operation until 1842. The new machine was set up in the SE corner of Dial Square ( est. for new Bld, £276. ).
9 March 1770 Two cannons exploded at proof on the same day
The Verbruggens insisted upon improvements, esp. to the Foundry, most notably a new gun-boring machine (driven by four horses ), which was in operation until 1842. The new machine was set up in the SE corner of Dial Square ( est. for new Bld, £276. ).
9 March 1770 Two cannons exploded at proof on the same day
1771-4
Extension of Brass Foundry building, to accommodate a third furnace.
1772
King George visited the Warren where he viewed the Royal Laboratory. He was also shown a display of cannon and mortar fire.
House erected for John Verbrugen Master Founder. Bid no A85
House erected for John Verbrugen Master Founder. Bid no A85
1772-3
Verbruggen’ s House ( Building A.85 ) built, for Jan and Peter Verbruggen, at a cost of £1200. Completed in August 1773. Later used to house the Ordnance Committee and Ordnance Board. Built by James Morris.
1776
Act of Parliament passed, to allow the use of prisoners to carry out hard labour in government premises, including the Arsenal. Three convict-hulks were shortly moored off the Arsenal, capable of housing 600 men, and were kept there until 1856. The convicts carried out much of the heavy labour in the Arsenal.
From 1776 convict hulks were moored at the Warren and Dockyard. The Hulks were old naval ships (Justina, Censor, Reception, and the Ganymead). Prior to 1776 the convicts would have been sent to American colonies. All convicts were sentenced to hard labour. The sea walls, Proof butts, drainage schemes, the Arsenal wall and numerous other civil works were undertaken. As late as 1962 there were reports of convict remains being found beside the sea defences. Some convicts were buried complete with shackles still attached to their legs
Alterations to the Foundry and Laboratory.
Another horse-powered boring mill, similar to but smaller than that brought in 1773, set up in South West corner of Dial Square.
From 1776 convict hulks were moored at the Warren and Dockyard. The Hulks were old naval ships (Justina, Censor, Reception, and the Ganymead). Prior to 1776 the convicts would have been sent to American colonies. All convicts were sentenced to hard labour. The sea walls, Proof butts, drainage schemes, the Arsenal wall and numerous other civil works were undertaken. As late as 1962 there were reports of convict remains being found beside the sea defences. Some convicts were buried complete with shackles still attached to their legs
Alterations to the Foundry and Laboratory.
Another horse-powered boring mill, similar to but smaller than that brought in 1773, set up in South West corner of Dial Square.
1776-7
New Wharf built, 100ft long.
New workshops for smiths and carpenters built, probably on the site of the Carriage Department, cost £1640.
New workshops for smiths and carpenters built, probably on the site of the Carriage Department, cost £1640.
1778
Canal built from the Thames along the (then) eastern boundary of the Arsenal site, dug by convicts.
The Arsenal wall completed by convict labour from the locally moored Convict Hulks (Warrior, Justitia, and Defence)
Rebuilding and enlargement of the Carriage Store or Factory.
The Arsenal wall completed by convict labour from the locally moored Convict Hulks (Warrior, Justitia, and Defence)
Rebuilding and enlargement of the Carriage Store or Factory.
1780
Three great horse-powered gun boring machines brought from the Hague and installed.
Captain Blomefleld appointed Inspector of Artillery - he effected great improvements in inspection and manufacture.
Captain Blomefleld appointed Inspector of Artillery - he effected great improvements in inspection and manufacture.
1781
50 acres leased from Sir Thomas Spenser Wilson, towards Plumstead.
1782
James Wyatt appointed Architect to the Ordnance.
1785
6 January 1785 The armed store ship Whitby sailed to Gibraltar with 66 new Brass Cannons from Woolwich Warren. The store ship had to be armed due to the Barbary Corsairs which preyed on such ships
1786
The Tower remaining from Tower Place is demolished.
1787
By Royal Warrant of 25 April 1787 the Corps of Engineers was awarded the Royal prefix. (Info re Corps of Royal Engineers supplied by David Walker, ex-sapper.)
1788
The Guardroom ( Building A.83 ) near the Beresford Square Gate built, designed by James Wyatt Isaac Ashton. Paid £461 19s 1.5d.
1779
23 October 1779 the laboratory blew up
1793
2 December 1793 Duke of Richmond inspected guns at Woolwich Warren when he ordered that 15 12pdr being sent immediatly to Ostend
1796
1800 staff in 1796
1797
19 May 1797 the Prince of Wurtenberg visited the Woolwich Warren
1800
New Land Carriage storehouse and Gun inspection shop built
1801
Prob. date of plans for the Grand Storehouse. The originals ( PRO) are neither dated nor signed.
1802
20th May. Serious fire causes £200 000 of damage to several buildings, including Model Room.
20 May 1802 Three separate fires foul play was suspected. Damage cost £200,000. The Repository was damaged along with a model of Gibraltor. The model was repaired and can be seen today in the Firepower Museum (Firepower now moved to new location 2017)
20 May 1802 Three separate fires foul play was suspected. Damage cost £200,000. The Repository was damaged along with a model of Gibraltor. The model was repaired and can be seen today in the Firepower Museum (Firepower now moved to new location 2017)
1803
Jan. Extensive repairs and alterations to the Royal Brass Foundry.
The increase in manpower in the Napoleonic Wars led to the establishment of a military ferry across the Thames. It ran from the Boat house at the east end of the Arsenal. A similar service operated in 1917
14 October 1803 a fire was caused by an incendery. The main suspect was a member of the Artillery Company band. Mr Graham from Bow street was investigating
The increase in manpower in the Napoleonic Wars led to the establishment of a military ferry across the Thames. It ran from the Boat house at the east end of the Arsenal. A similar service operated in 1917
14 October 1803 a fire was caused by an incendery. The main suspect was a member of the Artillery Company band. Mr Graham from Bow street was investigating
1804
The boundary-wall along Plumstead Road was raised to a height of 20’ high, the other parts raised to a height of 15
Colonel Shrapnell invented a shell that consisted of dozens of musket balls being packed in dynamite. This device was first used in the Penisular wars by Colonel Roke RA under command of the Duke of Wellington. Pari lament awarded Col Shrapnell £1200 for this invention. An example of the shrapnel technique is the 12inch BL shell used by the British Navy WW1 & 2. This shell contained 341 12 oz steel balls. The American Anthem written by Frances Scott Keys "Star Spangled Banner" gives refrence to Shrapnells bombs and congreves Rocket in the verse " And the Rockets red glare, the Bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there"
Colonel Shrapnell invented a shell that consisted of dozens of musket balls being packed in dynamite. This device was first used in the Penisular wars by Colonel Roke RA under command of the Duke of Wellington. Pari lament awarded Col Shrapnell £1200 for this invention. An example of the shrapnel technique is the 12inch BL shell used by the British Navy WW1 & 2. This shell contained 341 12 oz steel balls. The American Anthem written by Frances Scott Keys "Star Spangled Banner" gives refrence to Shrapnells bombs and congreves Rocket in the verse " And the Rockets red glare, the Bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there"
1805
The Warren renamed The Royal Arsenal by George III.
April. The working day at the Arsenal shortened to four periods of two hours each, instead of four periods of 2.5 hours.
16 January 1805 an experiment was conducted in front of the Board of Engineers at Woolwich Warren with an invention that did away with the need to use a powder horn to ignite the charge in a cannon (thereby reducing the fatalities that this procedure produced). The invention consisted of a lock with a flint and a pan being fixed so that a spark will fly down a tube. The inventors name was Ross. The invention was put into effect immediately.
29 May 1805 King George III visited the Warren and was met by the Prince of Wales, the Dukes of York, Kent, Sussex and the Earl of Chatham. The King was shown all of the latest gun and ball making facilities and was also treated to a display of shooting at targets in the Thames. The King was by all accounts impressed and as a reward allowed the Warren to be renamed as the Royal Arsenal. To mark this occasion a halfday holiday was pronounced "Bean Feast" this perk was still celebrated nearly 200 years later. Another perk the King dispensed with was a 24hour alcohol liecence and the building subsequently called the "Piggery"
30 June 1805 Two Storehouses destroyed by fire. Fires started in 5 different places. Foul play suspected. 500,000 cartridges lost. The Earl of Chatham presided over the inquiry to the cause of fire the chief suspect was a Samuel Margatroyd
The first steam engine used to power the Great Pile
1805 there was 10000 staff and the area of the Arsenal was 106 Acres
1805 The Grand Storehouse construction started, the cost was extreme at £237000. Pile driving was undertaken to support the building due to the closeness of the Thames. In 1815 cracks appeared in the walls. New walls and foundations were installed during 1815 for the cost of £35000. The building material used was Purbeck stone at a cost of £1.7shillings per ton. 200 years later the building still as impressive as when built is now converted into luxury river side apartments.
Sir William Congreve devised a practical and effective Rocket system, as a result a factory was built especially for this purpose. The sizes of Rocket ranged from 3 pounds up to 300 pounds
April. The working day at the Arsenal shortened to four periods of two hours each, instead of four periods of 2.5 hours.
16 January 1805 an experiment was conducted in front of the Board of Engineers at Woolwich Warren with an invention that did away with the need to use a powder horn to ignite the charge in a cannon (thereby reducing the fatalities that this procedure produced). The invention consisted of a lock with a flint and a pan being fixed so that a spark will fly down a tube. The inventors name was Ross. The invention was put into effect immediately.
29 May 1805 King George III visited the Warren and was met by the Prince of Wales, the Dukes of York, Kent, Sussex and the Earl of Chatham. The King was shown all of the latest gun and ball making facilities and was also treated to a display of shooting at targets in the Thames. The King was by all accounts impressed and as a reward allowed the Warren to be renamed as the Royal Arsenal. To mark this occasion a halfday holiday was pronounced "Bean Feast" this perk was still celebrated nearly 200 years later. Another perk the King dispensed with was a 24hour alcohol liecence and the building subsequently called the "Piggery"
30 June 1805 Two Storehouses destroyed by fire. Fires started in 5 different places. Foul play suspected. 500,000 cartridges lost. The Earl of Chatham presided over the inquiry to the cause of fire the chief suspect was a Samuel Margatroyd
The first steam engine used to power the Great Pile
1805 there was 10000 staff and the area of the Arsenal was 106 Acres
1805 The Grand Storehouse construction started, the cost was extreme at £237000. Pile driving was undertaken to support the building due to the closeness of the Thames. In 1815 cracks appeared in the walls. New walls and foundations were installed during 1815 for the cost of £35000. The building material used was Purbeck stone at a cost of £1.7shillings per ton. 200 years later the building still as impressive as when built is now converted into luxury river side apartments.
Sir William Congreve devised a practical and effective Rocket system, as a result a factory was built especially for this purpose. The sizes of Rocket ranged from 3 pounds up to 300 pounds
1805-6
The first range (NW) of the New Laboratory Square built, as expansion of the Royal Laboratory.
1806
The Royal Military Academy ( which was occupying Tower Place and the Model Room) moved out to a new building on Woolwich Common. Tower Place became the museum, later the Pattern Room, of the Royal Laboratory. Not all the cadets could be accommodated at the new bldg, and some remained in residence at the Arsenal until 1882.
Between 1806 and 1810 a Martello tower was built in the south of the Arsenal just north of the of the Storekeepers house
Between 1806 and 1810 a Martello tower was built in the south of the Arsenal just north of the of the Storekeepers house
1806-13
The Grand Storehouses were first conceived in 1801 and the original 1813 designs may be found in the Public Record Office (Maps PRO/WO/78/Bundle 851), but they are unfortunately unsigned and undated. James and Lewis Wyatt may have designed them though.
Pile driving, considered to be the only means of obtaining a secure foundation, commenced in 1805, although discussions regarding cost, which was prodigious, and method of construction, extended over the next three years, and the buildings were finally completed in 1813, their construction having necessitated the destruction of certain buildings the chief among which being the East Laboratory.
The actual cost of this work does not appear to be recorded but in 1805 the sum of £237,000 exclusive of foundations, was envisaged.
In the main the buildings are constructed of Purbeck stone of which thousands of tons were purchased at a cost of £1. 7. —d per ton. The plinth of the centre storehouse was made of Dundee stone.
In 1815 incipient cracks first appeared in the walls, and by 1822 this trouble spread extensively, the North East Tower being particularly affected, as a result of which repairs were carried out.
Unfortunately, deterioration continued and in 1828 a special report was submitted on the sinking foundations; eventually, in 1831, those walls which were in a dangerous state were rebuilt, together with a new foundation for the East Tower of the Grand Quadrangle Storehouse, at an estimated cost of £35,000.
Pile driving, considered to be the only means of obtaining a secure foundation, commenced in 1805, although discussions regarding cost, which was prodigious, and method of construction, extended over the next three years, and the buildings were finally completed in 1813, their construction having necessitated the destruction of certain buildings the chief among which being the East Laboratory.
The actual cost of this work does not appear to be recorded but in 1805 the sum of £237,000 exclusive of foundations, was envisaged.
In the main the buildings are constructed of Purbeck stone of which thousands of tons were purchased at a cost of £1. 7. —d per ton. The plinth of the centre storehouse was made of Dundee stone.
In 1815 incipient cracks first appeared in the walls, and by 1822 this trouble spread extensively, the North East Tower being particularly affected, as a result of which repairs were carried out.
Unfortunately, deterioration continued and in 1828 a special report was submitted on the sinking foundations; eventually, in 1831, those walls which were in a dangerous state were rebuilt, together with a new foundation for the East Tower of the Grand Quadrangle Storehouse, at an estimated cost of £35,000.
1808
18 June 1808 munitions shipped from Woolwich Arsenal to Spain due to Napoleans invasion consisted of >30,000 stands of arms, 600 tons of ammunition, 4 million Ball cartridges, tools and Artillery
Marc Isambard Brunei (Father of Isambard Kingdom Brunei) built a steam powered saw mill
Paper Cartridge factory built. This building is now the Fire Power" Royal Artillery Museum
From 1808 explosives were stored in barrels aboard floating magazines anchored in the Thames off of Gallions Reach. Ships involved were > Manship, replaced by the Convert in 1823, which was replaced in 1827 by the Lady Chatham which was replaced in 1834 by the Susan and Mary also Little Ben and Ebenezzer
Marc Isambard Brunei (Father of Isambard Kingdom Brunei) built a steam powered saw mill
Paper Cartridge factory built. This building is now the Fire Power" Royal Artillery Museum
From 1808 explosives were stored in barrels aboard floating magazines anchored in the Thames off of Gallions Reach. Ships involved were > Manship, replaced by the Convert in 1823, which was replaced in 1827 by the Lady Chatham which was replaced in 1834 by the Susan and Mary also Little Ben and Ebenezzer
1809
August. Middle Gate House (Building C.96) was the residence of the Principal Storekeeper and at one time was occupied by Sir Henry Gordon, brother to General Gordon of Khartoum.
The principal Storekeeper residence was built and titled Middle Gate house. Sir Henry Gordon (Brother of General Gordon of Khartoum) resided there
The principal Storekeeper residence was built and titled Middle Gate house. Sir Henry Gordon (Brother of General Gordon of Khartoum) resided there
1809-11
Two further ranges of the New Laboratory Square built.
1810
Area was 140 acres
1812
Congreves rockets and Shrapnell shells that consisted of dozens of musket balls being packed in dynamite. These devices were used in the American / British war of 1812 at the Bombard of Balitmore. The American Anthem written by Frances Scott Keys " Star Spangled Banner"gives reference to Shrapnells bombs and Congreves rockets in the verse " And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night our flag was still there"
1813
Between 1813 and 1815 the Rocket Establishment was built beside the canal
2 September 1813 A workman in the Dipping square was showing off to his girl friend when the rocket he was lighting took off and ignited the surrounding manufacturing facilities
2 September 1813 A workman in the Dipping square was showing off to his girl friend when the rocket he was lighting took off and ignited the surrounding manufacturing facilities
1814
Two octagonal Guard Houses on the riverside built, prob. by James or Lewis Wyatt. They flanked a flight of stones steps down to a landing-stage.
The Ordnance canal was designed and built by the Royal Engineers using Convict labour from the Hulks. The canal was almost 1 mile long. The canal had two dog legs that ran between the factories creating an area know locally as "Frog island". As well as loading stores to and from ships and barges the canal was used for Torpedo testing. The last remains of this canal can be found in Thamesmead "Broad water"
The Riverside Guard Houses Bid A41 &A42 were originally sited each side of a causeway leading into the river
At horse Guards Parade there is a very ornate Dragon carriage holding a large mortar the inscription on the piece Earl of Mulgrave Master General 1814 Royal Carriage Dept Woolwich
The Ordnance canal was designed and built by the Royal Engineers using Convict labour from the Hulks. The canal was almost 1 mile long. The canal had two dog legs that ran between the factories creating an area know locally as "Frog island". As well as loading stores to and from ships and barges the canal was used for Torpedo testing. The last remains of this canal can be found in Thamesmead "Broad water"
The Riverside Guard Houses Bid A41 &A42 were originally sited each side of a causeway leading into the river
At horse Guards Parade there is a very ornate Dragon carriage holding a large mortar the inscription on the piece Earl of Mulgrave Master General 1814 Royal Carriage Dept Woolwich
1815
21 September 1815 The East India company made arrangements to send Congreve rockets to Madras, Bengal and Bombay
1816
28 November 1816 Duke Nicholas of Russia visited Woolwich Arsenal accompanied by Sir William Congreve
1819
28 November 1816 Duke Nicholas of Russia visited Woolwich Arsenal accompanied by Sir William Congreve
1820
20 June 1814 An explosion in one of the work sheds killed 4 workmen
1821
30 November 1821 The Arsenal had an establishment of 40 cats which cost the Government 3 pence per week to feed. Saving had to be made so in future they will have to exist on 2 pence a week a saving of 40 pence to the Government.
1824
The first steam machinery erected in the Royal Arsenal by the elder Brunel.
1827
Alterations in foundry, for installation of steam-driven boring machinery.
1829
The original Main Gate to the Arsenal was sited adjacent to the Main Guard House, but in 1829 on the order of Lord Beresford (Market named after him) a new gate was erected; this gate is the lower part of the present edifice.
The Bell Tower was added in 1859 and the superstructure over the gateway in 1891. The single side gates were converted to double gates in 1936. The inscription recording the building of the gateway can be seen on the stairway at the West side of the gate.
The bronze models of mortars bear the monogram of George IV.
The Bell Tower was added in 1859 and the superstructure over the gateway in 1891. The single side gates were converted to double gates in 1936. The inscription recording the building of the gateway can be seen on the stairway at the West side of the gate.
The bronze models of mortars bear the monogram of George IV.
1830
July. Former cadet barracks converted into store-rooms.
1831
Sir Henry Maudsley was born adjacent to the Arsenal Main gates inn Salutation Alley (a pretty rum old place all together). At 12 years old he was employed as a "Powder Boy" filling cartridges. By the time he reach 19 he was accomplished at carpentry smithing and all aspects mechanical. He was in fact considered the best in the Arsenal. This fact was recognised by Mr Brahma who gave him a significant position. He branched out and established his own engineering company, His inventions earned him the reputation as being one of the true fathers of the Industrial Revolution. Prior to his death in 1831 he designed and had built a cast iron tomb to hold his remains. The tomb was sited in Woolwich church yard until 2000 when it was rescued by Mr Ray Faulkner and safely stored in the Gun and Carriage shop C1
1836
James Marsh was the senior chemist at the Woolwich Arsenal in this capacity he was called on as specialist (expert) witness. He was called on to deliberate on a Plumstead mans alleged murder by arsenic. It was known at the time as inheritance powder because it was odourless, tasteless, readily available and easily slipped into drinks and food, as a result it became popular in eliminating relatives and gain inheritances. Majority of deaths had the symptoms of gastric fever. In fact it was pretty well undetectable. As a result of this sorry state of affairs James Marsh developed a technique that proved the existence of Arsenic. This technique was greeted with much acclaim across the world. James Marsh became the head of the Woolwich Arsenal Chemical department
1837
New steam engine for Royal Carriage Dept set up in Carriage Square.
Staff employed was 500
Staff employed was 500
1839
Jan. Approval for tall circular chimney for sawmill, cost £423 8s. 9d.
1840
30 October 1840 Gunners at Woolwich Arsenal were trying out a new type of shell that only explodes when striking an object be it 300yds or 3000yds
1841
6 February 1841 The steam powered ordnance vessel was loaded with 12x32 Pdrguns 1x68 pdr and 1x8 inch gun. These guns were destined to be sent to Van Diemans land.
17 March 1841 The Ranger convict ship tied up at Woolwich Arsenal awaiting embarkation of female prisoners from the Mill bank penitentiary for transfer to Australia
17 March 1841 The Ranger convict ship tied up at Woolwich Arsenal awaiting embarkation of female prisoners from the Mill bank penitentiary for transfer to Australia
1842
Steam-powered boring-mill introduced, to replace the horse-powered mills bought in 1773 and 1776.
Sir john Anderson worked in the Arsenal first as an apprentice then as an Engineer. He invented a machine to manufacture bullets at a rate of 40000 per hour. This replaced a system that produced at 500 per hour. The cost saving on this product was over £200,000 per year (probably the equivalent of £20M at 2009 prices), he also invented a machine for granulating gun powder, another for breaking down mill cake. He also invented a way of manufacturing bayonets costing a third of original price plus methods of making 500 muskets a day.
Sir john Anderson worked in the Arsenal first as an apprentice then as an Engineer. He invented a machine to manufacture bullets at a rate of 40000 per hour. This replaced a system that produced at 500 per hour. The cost saving on this product was over £200,000 per year (probably the equivalent of £20M at 2009 prices), he also invented a machine for granulating gun powder, another for breaking down mill cake. He also invented a way of manufacturing bayonets costing a third of original price plus methods of making 500 muskets a day.
1843
May. New entrance authorised through Storekeepers garden (Storekeepers ) House later became Middle Gatehouse.
1848
April. Engine house adjoining Foundry began, for new steam engine.
Circular reservoir dug on top of Woolwich Common by convicts.
Statue of the Duke Wellington made by T Milnes was presented to the Board of Ordnance who at first set it up at the Tower of London but then moved to Woolwich in 1861.
Circular reservoir dug on top of Woolwich Common by convicts.
Statue of the Duke Wellington made by T Milnes was presented to the Board of Ordnance who at first set it up at the Tower of London but then moved to Woolwich in 1861.
1852
June. 1000 yard musket range to be laid out in marshes within Arsenal.
1854
March 29th Outbreak of the Crimean War.
1854 / 56
Royal Laboratory building enlarged with an iron and glass roof built between the 1695 ranges (demolished), The old turneries at the South end of the Royal Laboratory removed late 1854.
20 ton crane ordered from Messrs Beecroft to be erected on the Arsenal Wharf.
Fredrick Augustus Abel appointed as the first Ordnance Chemist this may be said to mark the foundation of the Materials Quality Assurance Directorate (MQAD).
Oct Tender of £741 by Mr R Oldham accepted for building a river wall at Woolwich.
20 ton crane ordered from Messrs Beecroft to be erected on the Arsenal Wharf.
Fredrick Augustus Abel appointed as the first Ordnance Chemist this may be said to mark the foundation of the Materials Quality Assurance Directorate (MQAD).
Oct Tender of £741 by Mr R Oldham accepted for building a river wall at Woolwich.
1855
Purchase of another 114 acres for the Arsenal.
May New saw mill built for the Royal Carriage Dept.
August Vaulted brick bid in the middle of West Quadrangle of the Grand Store demolished.
August Work began on roofing over and enclosing the East Quadrangle. ( The whole East Quadrangle was demolished in 1908 to make way for the Power Station. )
William Armstrong manufactured the first Wrought iron breech loading rifled gun (RBL 40 pdr).
May New saw mill built for the Royal Carriage Dept.
August Vaulted brick bid in the middle of West Quadrangle of the Grand Store demolished.
August Work began on roofing over and enclosing the East Quadrangle. ( The whole East Quadrangle was demolished in 1908 to make way for the Power Station. )
William Armstrong manufactured the first Wrought iron breech loading rifled gun (RBL 40 pdr).
1856
The T Pier Built.
First Gas Retort House built in the Arsenal.
The Armstrong Gun Factory of which the old turrets and North Facing Mill constituted the main portion, was constructed for the manufacture of the R.B.L. 40 pdr gun invented by Sir William Armstrong, who was appointed ‘Engineer for Rifled Ordnance1 in April 1856, at a salary
of £2,600 p.a.
The R.B.L. gun was the first type of iron ordnance to be made at Woolwich and was also the first breech—loading rifled weapon. It was adopted for service in 1859 and marked a turning point in the development of modern artillery.
The building of the Shell Foundry (Building A.67) was part of a general reconstruction which took place after the Crimean War. It was designed by D Murray, and was completed in 1856 at a cost
of £55,000. The pair of magnificent gates bearing the date 1856, which still grace this building, were designed by Charles Bailey and cast by the Regent Canal Iron Works. Hanging on the wall just inside the building are two further cast iron grills which originally filled the archways each side of the entrance arch. There are also cast panels each side of the inner arch at ground level.
Only The Gatehouse two storeys remain.
The building now known as the ‘Rink’ ( Round House ) existed first of all as an open site with a central crane with 65’ radius and a lifting capacity of 50 tons, and the pits were in the open ground with covers. Around 1891 plans were drawn to roof over the radial crane, which was later replaced by the existing crane at about 1938/39.
First Gas Retort House built in the Arsenal.
The Armstrong Gun Factory of which the old turrets and North Facing Mill constituted the main portion, was constructed for the manufacture of the R.B.L. 40 pdr gun invented by Sir William Armstrong, who was appointed ‘Engineer for Rifled Ordnance1 in April 1856, at a salary
of £2,600 p.a.
The R.B.L. gun was the first type of iron ordnance to be made at Woolwich and was also the first breech—loading rifled weapon. It was adopted for service in 1859 and marked a turning point in the development of modern artillery.
The building of the Shell Foundry (Building A.67) was part of a general reconstruction which took place after the Crimean War. It was designed by D Murray, and was completed in 1856 at a cost
of £55,000. The pair of magnificent gates bearing the date 1856, which still grace this building, were designed by Charles Bailey and cast by the Regent Canal Iron Works. Hanging on the wall just inside the building are two further cast iron grills which originally filled the archways each side of the entrance arch. There are also cast panels each side of the inner arch at ground level.
Only The Gatehouse two storeys remain.
The building now known as the ‘Rink’ ( Round House ) existed first of all as an open site with a central crane with 65’ radius and a lifting capacity of 50 tons, and the pits were in the open ground with covers. Around 1891 plans were drawn to roof over the radial crane, which was later replaced by the existing crane at about 1938/39.
1857
Mallets Mortar (the largest in existence) cast ( Now at Fort Nelson. Portsmouth ).
1858
Abolition of the prison hulks at Woolwich.
New pattern room built R C D £6000.
New Desiccating House R L £2000.
Ticket Office and shifting house R L £1,150.
New Barrel Shed RL £3000.
New pattern room built R C D £6000.
New Desiccating House R L £2000.
Ticket Office and shifting house R L £1,150.
New Barrel Shed RL £3000.
1859
Railway built from gun boring mill to proof butt R G F £6000.
New wagon Store in S D £3000.
New Painters shop R L £1400.
New Seasoning Shed R L £3000.
Gun Carriage Storehouse S D £6000.
The Armstrong R B L 4opdr adopted for service in Royal Artillery.
New wagon Store in S D £3000.
New Painters shop R L £1400.
New Seasoning Shed R L £3000.
Gun Carriage Storehouse S D £6000.
The Armstrong R B L 4opdr adopted for service in Royal Artillery.
1860
New Painters shop RCD £5000.
Extension of seasoning sheds R C D £4000.
New Rocket case factory R L £3000.
Landing and Shipping shed on wharf S D £8000.
Railway to shipping pier on wharf £1000.
Extension of seasoning sheds R C D £4000.
New Rocket case factory R L £3000.
Landing and Shipping shed on wharf S D £8000.
Railway to shipping pier on wharf £1000.
1862
Gas Holder built for the Arsenals Gas Works.
Proof and examination sheds built P D £2500.
Foundations for Hydraulic cranes S D £1620.
Proof and examination sheds built P D £2500.
Foundations for Hydraulic cranes S D £1620.
1863
Statue of the Duke of Wellington brought to the Arsenal and set up south of the Grand Store.
1864
The Chemical Laboratory built ,designed by the War dept Chemist, the east wing housed photograph department.
1865
Appointment C R E chief Royal Engineer Inspector of Works.
1867
Pontoon store converted into smithy fitters shop R C D £6,300.
Scrap forge built Three furnaces RCD £2,600.
Building North of the sighting room built for finishing heavy ordnance, providing rails for a 30 ton walking crane RGF £4000.
Granite trackway for transit of heavy ordnance RGF £1,175.
Foundations for a 13 ton steam hammer and for four 30 ton cranes.
New establishment built on marshes for powder work RL £7,500.
More property purchased to lengthen the rifle range RL, £15,000.
Blds to manufacture cases for cartridges RL,U,500.
Boiler house and rifle house at rifle shell factory RU3,000.
Scrap forge built Three furnaces RCD £2,600.
Building North of the sighting room built for finishing heavy ordnance, providing rails for a 30 ton walking crane RGF £4000.
Granite trackway for transit of heavy ordnance RGF £1,175.
Foundations for a 13 ton steam hammer and for four 30 ton cranes.
New establishment built on marshes for powder work RL £7,500.
More property purchased to lengthen the rifle range RL, £15,000.
Blds to manufacture cases for cartridges RL,U,500.
Boiler house and rifle house at rifle shell factory RU3,000.
1867/8
Iron pier built for heavy stores S D £11000. Extended to the east in 1870 to the West in 1872 200 ton crane built on it in 1915.
1868
New offices RCD £5,000.
Rebuilding old forge and shops RGF £10,000.
Rebuilding old forge and shops RGF £10,000.
1871
New smiths shop RCD. £10,900.
Extension of girls factory for manufacture of cartridge cases £2. 700 ( Bld 17 ).
Extension of girls factory for manufacture of cartridge cases £2. 700 ( Bld 17 ).
1873
18 “narrow gauge railway system opened.
1874
May. 40 ton steam hammer made by Nasmyth & Wilson installed.
1876
The standard gauge rail network brought into the Arsenal from Plumstead from the London, Chatham & Dover Coast line connected to the narrow gauge system.
Radial crane built on open site (roofed over in 1891).
Radial crane built on open site (roofed over in 1891).
1878
Date on the iron work of the south west range of the new laboratory square.
1882
New boring mill for heavy guns begun. Further stages added in 1885, 1889, 1899, 1902
1904 & 1912.
1904 & 1912.
1885
T Pier extended.
1886
The Morley Committee was appointed to look into the organisation and administration
of the Arsenal.
Arsenal Football Club established Originally set up by workers in The Royal Arsenal as Dial Square Football Club the club underwent several name changes along with moving from temporary pitches around Plumstead and Thamesmead before the move to Highbury in 1913.
of the Arsenal.
Arsenal Football Club established Originally set up by workers in The Royal Arsenal as Dial Square Football Club the club underwent several name changes along with moving from temporary pitches around Plumstead and Thamesmead before the move to Highbury in 1913.
1887
July. The Morley Report published.
1888
Jan. The Government accepted the main recommendations of the report.
Director General of Ordnance Factories Appointed Central H Q and offices established.
Establishment of central design office but with the three factories retaining their own
Offices until the war, 1914.
Central stores branch created nominally covering stores for the three factories.
The C R E (Commanding Royal Engineer) Woolwich division renamed
Superintendent ,Building Works.
R G F bought 80 ton crane two pumping engines and a 50 ton crane.
Director General of Ordnance Factories Appointed Central H Q and offices established.
Establishment of central design office but with the three factories retaining their own
Offices until the war, 1914.
Central stores branch created nominally covering stores for the three factories.
The C R E (Commanding Royal Engineer) Woolwich division renamed
Superintendent ,Building Works.
R G F bought 80 ton crane two pumping engines and a 50 ton crane.
1889
Building for steam hammer and shell forging plant RL £1750.
1889/90
First central electrical generating station replacing lighting units attached to several of the
factory buildings.
factory buildings.
1890
A standard gauge rail network was began in the Arsenal to supplement the existing 18”gauge.
The network opened in 1873.
“B” store house built £7000.
The network opened in 1873.
“B” store house built £7000.
1891
Roof built over crane and shrinking pits R G F £4,500.
Upper part of Beresford Square gate way added.
Upper part of Beresford Square gate way added.
1892
Roof built over Radial crane for R G F £8,900 (D73).
1895
Electric light station built £1650.
New machine shop for RGF £1250
New machine shop for RGF £1250
1896
Complete calcium acetate built £3200.
Convert Dial square foundry into Q F case factory for the R L £4,100.
Convert Dial square foundry into Q F case factory for the R L £4,100.
1897
Timber stores for cut slabs and planks £14,000.
1898
Additional plant for making Q F ammunition £12,500.
Enlarging of shrinking pits for heavy guns RGF £3,580.
Extension of boring mill by two bays R G F £12,000.
Extension of lyddite establishment RL £4,900.
Enlarging of shrinking pits for heavy guns RGF £3,580.
Extension of boring mill by two bays R G F £12,000.
Extension of lyddite establishment RL £4,900.
1900
Additional work at gas factory £15,700.
Buildings for R G F to replace the Dial Square shops transferred to the R C D £10,000.
Buildings for R G F to replace the Dial Square shops transferred to the R C D £10,000.
1903
Chemical Research Department founded at Arsenal the first organisation devoted to armament research in Britain.
1907
Royal Arsenal covers 1,285 acres in size. Including testing ranges to the east the entire Arsenal site reaches three miles long by one mile wide, and included three separate internal railway systems.
1908
Electrical generating station built on site of the west quadrangle of the grand store.
Central Office building begun.
Central Office building begun.
1911
Jan. New Central Office completed and occupied
1914
At the outbreak of World War I the Royal Arsenal employed nearly 80,000 workers.
1920
The Inspectors of Steels H Q moved from Sheffield to Woolwich and set up in Middle Gate House and in huts in its forecourt.
1939
New Radial Crane built.
1947
June. William G Penney began assembling a team to work on the UK atomic bomb project. The project was code named Basic High Explosive Research or BHER (later just HER) and was based at the Royal Arsenal Woolwich. Due to a number of test facilities dotted around the UK all linked to this project a single site was selected for atomic weapons development at Aldermaston in Berkshire and soon after 1950 the project vacated the Royal Arsenal
1950
Large scale production of armaments resumed at Woolwich.
1967
31st March - Royal Ordnance Factory at Woolwich closed. Site scaled back with existing buildings retained by Ministry of Defence and used for storage and testing.
500 acres were passed on to the GLC for housing
500 acres were passed on to the GLC for housing
1994
The Royal Arsenal ceased functions as a military establishment and The Ministry of Defence closed the site.
1997
Ministry of Defence hands ownership of the site to English Partnerships.
1999
Mowlems were awarded the site infrastructure contract.
2000
Berkeley Homes were selected as developer for the residential zone.
2001
The Royal Arsenal West opens to the public with the opening of the `Firepower - The New Royal Artillery Experience` and the river front walkway.
A new river pier was installed between the two `Guardhouses`, in late 2001, so in some ways bringing back this area to its original use.
The io Group was selected as the developer for the employment zone.
The first houses and new industrial units are built on the Royal Arsenal West.
A new river pier was installed between the two `Guardhouses`, in late 2001, so in some ways bringing back this area to its original use.
The io Group was selected as the developer for the employment zone.
The first houses and new industrial units are built on the Royal Arsenal West.
2002
The first people move in to occupy the new houses on the Royal Arsenal estate. Several of the Industrial units have tenants as well.
The above information Peter Martin and by the `Royal Arsenal Woolwich Historical Society (RAWHS) Paul Brooke, with additional information supplied by Ray Fordman after his own research at the `Public Records Office` in Kew; and Kevin F of the former `se18.com` .
Other additions are noted accordingly to the person who supplied the information.