FORT DENISON sits in the middle of Sydney Harbour on an island known today as PINCHGUT
The island was flattened and quarried for sandstone that was used to construct Circular Quay.
A gibbet was placed on the island in 1796 and murderer Francis Morgan is believed to be the first convict hanged out there.
When the threat of foreign attack became a real concern the island was fortified with construction beginning in 1841. The construction had stalled not long after and only resumed again in 1855. The resumption was the result of fear of a Russian attack during the Crimean War.
Construction of the Fort was completed in 1857 and named after the then Governor of NSW Sir William Thomas Denison.
The Martello tower, famously used by the British Empire throughout the 19th Century, is the distinct feature of Fort Denison. This is the only Martello tower in Australia and the last to ever be built in the British Empire.
Three Cannons were installed in the Fort before it was complete but unfortunately they were obsolete as the time it took to load would mean the target would sail past beforehand, and the small room would not withstand the blast. In simple terms, it was useless as a Fort, although it could accommodate 24 soldiers and one officer.
In 1913 a lighthouse beacon was built and was later restored in 2004 and is still in use.
During WWII when three Japanese subs entered Sydney Harbour the USS Chicago fired on the subs and some of their shells hit Fort Denison, the damage is still visible today.
Fort Denison is now a Tourist attraction and Museum and also a Wedding and Events facility.
Ferry's to the island depart Circular Quay every 45 minutes Monday to Sunday and the fare also includes the landing fee.
Guided Tours including access to the Martello tower is an extra charge.
From 1906 a single cannon shot would fire at 1pm to enable the sailors to set their ship's chronometers correctly. This was stopped in WWII and recommenced in 1986.
It still occurs to this day but it is no longer a daily occurrence.
I have never set foot on this island and I think after nearly 40 years living here it's time I did.
What about you?
J G S
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