The most important naval fortress in the British Empire: The fortification of the Firth of Forth 1880-1977
"Yet in 1916 the Forth became the most powerful naval fortress – most powerful whether measured by armament, by garrison, or by any other standard – in the British Empire, and probably, therefore, in the World."
General George K Scott-Moncrieff, Director, Fortifications & Works, War Office, 1911-1918. Chambers’s Journal(1922)
Gordon's talk will outline the history of the Forth as a key strategic fortress. Its role as one of Britain’s most important 20th-century naval bases has gradually faded from popular memory.
Dr Gordon Barclay is an archaeologist and historian. He spent over thirty years in government agency Historic Scotland and its predecessors, working to promote the conservation and understanding of Scotland’s historic environment. He is the author of over one hundred publications, including a major co-authored work in 2019 with Ron Morris on the fortifications of the Forth.
His most recent book is "Tanks on the Streets? The Battle of George Square 1919", co-authored with Louise Heren in 2023.
THIS EVENT WAS ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED FOR 23 NOVEMBER 2025
Members and non-members of The Western Front Association are equally welcome. Any new visitors are guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome from a group of like-minded enthusiasts.
(Branch Chairman)
