During the American Civil War there was much new activity in the park. Soldiers who often had to be self-reliant were aided by fort improvements and in august 5th, 1862 a new fort/battery was started. This was to have both above and below ground structures. Located midway between the Martello tower and the old Northwest Arm emplacements. It was completed in 1868 and fully manned with living accommodations. The large guns could defend the Harbour entrance and the Northwest Arm.
In 1872, F.C. underwent renovations. 18 Ton cannons replaced 12-ton guns and large numbers of military personnel were camped around the Fort. In 1888, concrete reinforcements with underground rooms, tunnels and an outdoor rifle range were all in place. Park visitors did not venture too close.
In 1905, troops began to return to England and withdraw from the park. However, during WWI, the battery continued to be manned and used. In 1936, a decisions was made to leave Cambridge Battery. Due to the condition of the buildings the Park Commission decided not to take over the area unless there was a clean up and dangerous features taken care of. Signs were posted and areas chained off. WWII saw some rise but after the war, the status of the Battery continued anew and debate increased. In 1951, it was decided to demolish some of the buildings of the battery as a demolition exercise. On November 18th, the park closed and explosions rang out. The area remained a mess for the next 8 or 9 years. Finally the park commission, frustrated by the lack of response from Ottawa, began the clean up. By the early 1960's, the 3 forts and batteries were taken over by Canadian Historic sites. Today the area is used for picnics, Shakespeare by the Sea performances and quiet recreation of park visitors, both 2 and 4 footed. |
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lol, in other news, i think another trip to YR is in order, what do you all say? 
