metal posts in ground (Hart Tor brook/ Black Tor)

The Thinkers

2010-09-04 11:57:12

Hello all,

Recently did a walk and discovered a number of metal posts in the ground in the area of Hart Tor brook, near the stone row. I presume that they must have some past military significance but I could not fathom their purpose. I found three, rusted, but smooth and set in a concrete base. Each is approx 1 ft in height, cylindrical with a top diameter of approx 5 ". The top looks like it has been screwed on as threads are apparant. At the base is an outer ring acouple of inches in height. The ones I found are approx 50 yds apart.

I believe that historically the area has been used for firing, and google earth shows a neat row of what I deduce to be shell holes from mortars in the region. I'm guessing a connection here - but would like to know if someone is better informe.

edit --Thanks to Nik for uploading pic for me.

Best wishes,

K&A

Edited by Nik

~~[img="~~http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v252/bc_nik/Moor_walkingmetalpost.jpg" alt=""]

Nik - KOTM

2010-09-04 14:23:30

Dartmoor used to have the antiaircraft search lights mounted up there could it be those you are looking at?

Brinnie

2010-09-05 06:29:39

I think what you are talking about is known as a "whatsit" I alway understood they were test drill hole covers.

The Thinkers

2010-09-05 13:21:43

Hello NIK and Brinnie,

Thank you both for your replies.

I have researched this a little further and found a reference in the book 'Exploring Dartmoor'by Harry Starkey. On P173 it is suggested that these were 19th C exploratory bore holes as the plan had been to cite a reservoir in that area. ( This was subsequently developed at Burrator).

Thanks again,

K&A