Fort Grosnez

Fort Grosnez was built between 1850 and 1853 and was the first of fortifications to be completed to protect the Port of Refuge.  The Fort is constructed of dressed stone, some sandstone and some granite.  Fort Gosnez was position to help protect the harbour from both land and naval attack.  There is a prominent south facing glacis covered by No.1 Battery.  The dry moat on this face is covered by a caponier.  The barracks at Fort Grosnez could accommodate 112 men.

In total Fort Goznez had twenty eight guns mounted in seven batteries giving fields of fire all round.   The batteries were:

Number 1 Battery with four gun in barbette positions facing South over the glacis. Included an 8-inch Howitzer to cover possible landing points.

Number 2 Battery facing East over the harbour with two guns.

Number 3 Battery facing West with three guns facing Grabby Bay.

Number 4 Battery had four guns facing out over the Breakwater.

Number 5 Battery had four guns on the top and two below in casemates.  Faced out towards the open sea.

Number 6 Battery was built on the barracks.  Mounted four guns in total, three guns facing East over the harbour and one gun facing North towards the breakwater.

Number 7 Battery was built on the officers quarters.  Two guns facing North West over the entrance to Platte Saline Bay.