Fort Paull in Hull Reopens with Classic Car Show This Weekend
2024-09-27 07:03- Fort Paull, a historical site in Hull, is set to reopen after being closed for four years.
- The reopening event will feature a classic American car show and will take place on September 28 and 29.
- The site has plans for future events, including a Halloween ghost walk and a Christmas fayre, indicating a renewed commitment to public engagement.
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Insights
Fort Paull, a heritage site located on Battery Road in Hull, is preparing to reopen to the public after being closed since 2020. The reopening is scheduled for the weekend of September 28 and 29, with the highlight being a classic American car show that will pay tribute to past events held at the site. This medieval fortress, which dates back to the 16th century, has a storied history, including its use during World War Two for ammunition storage. The decision to reopen comes after the owner, Brian Rushworth, faced a setback when his proposal to convert the site into a caravan park was rejected by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council earlier this year. In October, former Royal Marine Nick Taylor was appointed as a temporary caretaker and, alongside Nick Moore, who campaigned to keep the fort open, they received permission to reopen the site as a visitor attraction, complete with a museum. The reopening will not only feature the car show but also allow public access to the fort's tunnels. The site has a rich history, having been fortified in 1542 and later expanded during the English Civil War. It was sold by the Ministry of Defence in 1960 and has been a museum since 2000, showcasing 500 years of conflict. Looking ahead, the team behind Fort Paull is excited about the future, with plans for various events, including a Halloween ghost walk, a Christmas fayre, and a 1940s weekend, aiming to revitalize interest in this historical attraction and engage the community once more.
Contexts
Fort Paull, a historic site located in the village of Paull, Hull, has a rich and varied history that dates back to the 11th century. Originally part of the manor of Burstwick, it has served multiple roles throughout the centuries, including a military fortification and a gaol during the infamous Hull Witch Trials of the 1600s. The fort was reconstructed in 1894 but became obsolete in 1915, only to be repurposed during both World Wars. In World War I, it functioned as the Humber Fire Command and Training Centre, while in World War II, it was used for ammunition storage and even housed a copy of the Crown Jewels to protect them from potential threats. In 1964, a dedicated group of volunteers known as the Friends of Fort Paull took on the task of restoring the site, transforming it into a heritage museum that opened to the public in 2000. The museum showcased a waxwork collection of figures who influenced the fort's long history, alongside an impressive armoury featuring various artillery pieces and armoured vehicles. However, the museum sadly closed its doors in January 2020, leaving a void in the community that had come to cherish its historical significance. Despite the closure, Fort Paull remains a focal point for local events, including military re-enactments and falconry displays. The surrounding area offers scenic views along the Humber Estuary, making it a popular spot for walking and picnicking. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the Paull Holme Strays Nature Reserve, which is home to diverse wildlife and provides excellent bird-watching opportunities. As the community reflects on the legacy of Fort Paull, there is hope for its future. The site stands as a testament to the region's rich history, and while the museum may be closed, the stories of its past continue to resonate with those who visit, ensuring that Fort Paull remains a cherished landmark in Hull.
