Bomvrij militair object, Gageldijk 169

English translation

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Description

Cluster 30. Bombproof Magazine C.

NEW HOLLAND WATER LINE

Introduction

BOMBPROOF MAGAZINE C as a component added during the modernisation of Fort De Gagel around 1880, covered with earth. Magazines were storage places for artillery and other materiel. With the increase in the range of artillery, the force of projectile impacts and the explosive power of (brisant) grenades it became increasingly difficult to withstand bombardments. Strengthening of masonry, application of shock-absorbing masonry systems (among other things by means of arches), shallow angles of inclination and curved or pointed forms, use of concrete - and later of reinforced concrete - in increasingly heavy construction, was one of the ways to keep the fortifications resistant to increasing attack power. Moreover, the application of earth coverings proved to be an effective means of absorbing or dampening energy. This is the reason why many masonry or concrete works are provided with a layer of earth or frontal protection of sand or earth. Depending on the period of construction - and thus the expected impact force of projectiles - the term 'bombproof buildings' was used, when they were considered able to withstand a pre-defined number of impacts from heavy calibre. The Bombproof Magazine C of Fort De Gagel is located on the right throat side of the work, with the visible facade not in line with that of the barracks. A restoration is planned for the magazine and there are plans for alternative uses.

Description

BOMBPROOF MAGAZINE C built in 1879-1880, on the right of the fort and constructed on a rectangular plan and except for a short, straight facade section consisting mainly of bevelled retaining walls - the whole covered with layers of earth. The magazine is built in fair-faced masonry with a broad roll moulding as finish. In the middle of the facade two doors, the left one with an arch and the right one rectangular. The letter C is applied to the facade.

Valuation

The BOMBPROOF MAGAZINE C of Fort De Gagel is of general importance because of:

* Cultural-historical values as a component of the New Holland Water Line as designed by C.R.T. Kraijenhoff and initially realised from 1815 by him, Jan Blanken and Major-engineer Willem Offerhaus and subsequently strengthened and improved by others over approximately 125 years.

* Architectural-historical values, in particular as an expression of military-strategic building craftsmanship, which is based on: a. the system of inundation and access defence (19th century), b. the race with increasingly powerful offensive means (19th century).

This concerns a component from around 1880 - as an example of a bombproof storage facility for materiel.

* Ensemble value and situational values as a component of the New Holland Water Line. Also because of the functional and physical coherence with the other components of the complex.

* The component is representative (characteristic) because it displays in appearance the characteristics which underscore the defensive purpose of that time.

* The component is well preserved because the building is in a condition in which the original material and functional state are still well reflected.