Cliffords Fort SME

Clifford’s Fort was originally built as a smooth bore coastal defence battery.  Initial work on the Submarine Mining Establishment commenced in December 1885 and concluded in June 1886.  The Test Room and Observing Station were built between June and October 1888.

The 6-pdr Q.F. Battery to protect the minefield was built between 17th and 31st September 1895.

The Submarine Mining Establishment was built within the boundary walls of the Clifford’s Fort, but much of it has now been built over and lost.  The building associated with the mines were concentrated on the Eastern half of the complex.

In 1884 a company of Newcastle and Durham Engineer Volunteers were formed,  In 1888 they became the Tyne Volunteer Division, Submarine Mines, Royal Engineers with three companies.  By 1900 there was five companies and this increased to seven companies by 1904.  These Volunteers assisted with Submarine Mining at Portland and Defence Electric Lights at both Portsmouth and on the Humber.

On the 1st April 1907 converted to Electrical Engineers with a strength of thirty officers and four hundred and twenty seven other ranks..