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MHG36396 - Mine Watching Observation Post - South Sutor

Summary

Part of the Second World War Cromarty defences .

Type and Period (1)

Protected Status

Full Description

NH86NW 16.01 8091 6707

This observation post is situated immediately below the fire command post (MHG34268) at South Sutor battery. A small concrete building which was the observation post used by the mine watching service for observing and recording enemy aircraft dropping mines into the sea. <1>

A bunker with an observation post. The entrance to this building is from the S side down a short stair. A short passage leading to the stairs up to the observation post has a doorway on the W side.
The observation post was used for watching for planes dropping mines at the entrance of the Cromarty Firth, plotting their position and reporting for mine clearing. It also played a part in the controlled minefield. The bunker part, entered from the doorway in the short passageway was part of the detection systems employed at the Sutors. Laid along the sea floor across between the Sutors, were the indicator loops which picked up magnetic changes when a metal ship/submarine passed over the loops. These were picked by a machine called a galvanometer which detected the slight changes in the electric current. Up to six galvanometers were in use. The room contains cables ducts in the floor and further cable ducts with electrical cables still in situ can located in three of the four corners of the single room. <2>

GIS spatial data copied from data supplied by AKK from the RCAHMS World War One Survey Project. <3>

For other installations associated with the Second World War controlled minefield, see also MHG59168, MHG36395.

Sources/Archives (3)

Map

Location

Grid reference	Centred NH 8086 6707 (12m by 11m) (2 map features)
Map sheet	NH86NW
Geographical Area	ROSS AND CROMARTY
Civil Parish	CROMARTY

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Related Monuments/Buildings (2)

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External Links (1)