Bomvrij militair object, Biltsestraatweg bij 160

English translation

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Description

Cluster 38. Bombproof shelter E.

NEW HOLLANDIC WATERLINE

Introduction

BOMBPROOF SHELTER E, as accommodation for personnel on the northern part of the fort. Bombproof shelter E lies behind the northern flank-courtine of Fort De Bilt and forms the counterpart of bombproof shelter H on the southern part of the fort. With the increase in the range of artillery, the force of projectile impacts and the explosive power of (brisance) grenades it became increasingly difficult to withstand bombardment. Strengthening of brickwork, application of shock-absorbing masonry systems (inter alia by means of arches), shallow angles of inclination and curved or pointed shapes, use of concrete - and later of reinforced concrete - in increasingly heavy construction, was one of the ways to keep the fortified works resistant to increasing attacking force. Moreover, the application of earth coverings had proved to be a good means of absorbing or dampening energy. This is the reason why many masonry or concrete works were 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 - one spoke of 'bombproof buildings' when they were considered capable of withstanding a predefined number of impacts from heavy calibre weapons.

Description

A BOMBPROOF SHELTER E constructed in brick at Fort De Bilt, dating from circa 1875 and functioning as a relatively elongated accommodation for personnel and their matériel, curved slightly to the left - in the direction of the wall. The shelter is covered with earth on three sides and on top and has only a short visible façade on the gorge side (west). Wing walls descending at right angles to this. Shelter E forms the counterpart of bombproof shelter H on the southern part of the fort.

Valuation

BOMBPROOF SHELTER E of Fort De Bilt is of general importance by reason of:

* Cultural-historical values as part of the New Hollandic Waterline as designed by C.R.T. Kraijenhoff and initially from 1815 realised by him, Jan Blanken and Major-Engineer Willem Offerhaus and subsequently by others strengthened and improved over approximately 125 years.

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

This concerns a component dating from circa 1875, namely an example of a bombproof building as accommodation for personnel and their matériel.

* Ensemble value and situational values as part of the New Hollandic Waterline. Also by reason of the functional and physical coherence with the other components of the complex and in particular as counterpart of shelter H on the southern part of the fort.

* The component is representative because it is a good example of a small bombproof building on a fort from the initial phase of the final quarter of the 19th century.

* The component is well preserved because characteristic components have been retained and remain recognisable.