About this earthcache
The buildings are constructed from Devonian Limestone with Cornish Granite dressing.
Devonian Limestone is from the Devonian geological time period 416-345 million years ago. These limestone rocks are sedimentary rocks and primarily consist of the mineral Calcium Carbonate
The Calcium carbonate which forms this Limestone originates from various sea creatures ranging in size. Ocean-dwelling organisms such as oysters, clams, mussels and coral use calcium carbonate (CaCO3) found in seawater to create their shells and bones. As these organisms die, their shells and bones are broken down by waves and settle on the ocean floor where they are compacted over millions of years, creating limestone from the sediments and the pressure of the ocean water.
The given Coordinates will take you to a wall of the brew house
On the wall you will notice a block of Devonian Limestone with a rusted screw in it.
PLEASE ANSWER THE QUESTIONS AND SEND THE ANSWERS TO ME AT THE TOP OF MY GEOCACHING PROFILE. THEN GO AHEAD AND LOG YOUR FIND.
* Please do not post answers in your log.
1. Describe the fossils present in this block. Types of organism resembled? Sizes of fossils seen?
2. Think about the climate and landscape 400 million years ago. What type of natural phenomena would assist in the formation of the Limestone?
3. Look at the limestone around the yard. How might you tell that it is Devonian?
4. Not compulsory but feel free to post photos at the yard with your GPS or Geohound or maybe just a 'Selfie'.
Designed by the architect Sir John Rennie and named after King William IV, the Royal William Victualling yard was built between 1826 and 1835 in late Georgian style. The yard is one of the most remarkable and complete early 19th century complexes in the country.
When King William was heir to the throne and known as the Duke of Clarence he visited the yard to lay the coping stone at the base of the sea wall in 1827. He went 11 feet underwater in a 6ft x 4ft Diving Bell.
King William IV reigned from 1830-1837
In its heyday the Royal William Yard was the main supply depot for the Royal Navy. The yard ceased being used by the Royal Navy in 1992.
As you enter the yard you will notice the13ft Statue of King William IV carved from Portland Stone.
Many of the building still have ancient signage displaying their uses which you will notice as you walk around the yard.
Mills Bakery
originally equipped as a biscuit and bread factory. It later became a clothing and equipment store.
Slaughterhouse
Up to 100 Bullocks per day were slaughtered here and the meat salted into wooden Barells.
New Cooperage
60 Years after the yard was completed it was built to house Coopers, Wheelwrighters and a host of other skilled men to keep the Royal Navy trim.
Clarence
Originally used as a liquid store for Spirits, Vinegar and Beer.
Brewhouse
Built in 1834 but never actually used as a brew house. It was used as a Rum store and later a Torpedo workshop.
Cooperage
accomodating 100 coopers to make Barels and kegs.
Melville
The nerve centre of the main yard. Used as a major storehouse of Food, clothing and equipment. It features a quarter chiming clock designed by Benjamin Lewis Vulliamy.
