We explore an abandoned millionaires fortress mansions.
This unusual structure was built in 1761 by a man named Thomas, a prominent figure in the local area who inherited a great deal of money.
By the age of 25 Thomas was knighted, had become a member of parliament, was elected as MP, appointed as Constable and Lord Lieutenant and was responsible for the county's militia.
He was a notable eccentric of his day and he carried out these responsibilities in an unparalleled way… by building his own private garrison on the grounds of his estate.
Sir Thomas went on to publish laws and an enrolment book for his fort, it soon resembled a real military establishment, complete with soldiers, but had no practical defensive purpose.
The fort contains a parade ground, magazine and tunnels linking the surrounding earthworks with the tower.
The king elevated Sir Thomas to lord of the county in 1776, the American War Of Independence had began and war in Europe had become a distinct possibility.
His lordship’s private force was considered one of the best equipped regiments in the country and the king signed a warrant allowing Sir Thomas to mobilise his militia.
He built a new defensive fort on the coast, at his own expense, while taking refuge at home in his own personal fort but thankfully, the expected invasion never came.
In 1807, Sir Thomas passed away, and with the fort having no strategic importance, it was abandoned.
It now stands empty and although being listed, the buildings continue to decay, a sad end to the fort built by an eccentric gentleman.
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7 сен 2024
