MSO12586 - Possible World War Two observation post on Bossington Hill (Monument)

Summary

A large raised earthwork platform with concrete structures visible on its summit is visible in aerial photographs. It is thought to be the remains of a observation post and relate to the tank training activities in this area in the Second World War.

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Type and Period (1)

Protected Status

Full Description

About 100 metres in front (southwest) of the northwest end of the tank gunnery range target track (MSO8096) is a large raised earthwork platform. See MSO12585 and MSO12587 for similar platforms. [1] Concrete structures are visible on the top on 1946 aerial photographs. [2] A possible Second World War observation post was visible as an earthwork on aerial photographs. The post is centred at SS 9093 4812 and is defined by a large mound measuring 27 metres by 14 metres. The mound is clearly visible on aerial photographs and is thought to be associated with the adjacent target railway (MSO8096) and would have been used as part of the wider tank training activities in the area recorded as MMO627. [3-5]

Sources/Archives (5)

  • <1> Verbal communication: Various. Various. Oral Information. Chris Webster, Somerset SMR, Somerset County Council, July 1998.
  • <2> Aerial photograph: July 1946. RAF 106G\UK\1655 4005 to 4013.
  • <3> Aerial photograph: Various. Various. Vertical Aerial Photograph. RAF/106G/UK/1655 4012-3 (11 July 1946).
  • <4> Aerial photograph: Various. Various. Vertical Aerial Photograph. NMR OS/79013 160-1 (17 April 1979).
  • <5>XY Archive: Severn Estuary Rapid Coastal Zone Assessment: SS 94 NW. MD000133. [Mapped feature: #45044 ]

External Links (1)

Other Statuses/References

  • Exmoor National Park HER Number (now deleted): MMO1496
  • Local List Status (Unassessed)
  • National Monuments Record reference: SS 94 NW195
  • National Park: Exmoor National Park
  • Pastscape HOBID (was Monarch UID): 1455056
  • Somerset SMR PRN: 35794

Map

Location

Grid reference Centred SS 9093 4811 (43m by 33m)
Map sheet SS94NW
Civil Parish SELWORTHY, WEST SOMERSET, SOMERSET

Finds (0)

Related Monuments/Buildings (0)

Related Events/Activities (0)

Record last edited

Aug 17 2020 12:24PM

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