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Military Base: Detention Barracks Wynberg, Western Cape ROYAL ENGINEERS: Architect

Date: 1905 Client: English Military Type: Barracks Style: Utilitarian Status: Extant

With the First British occupation of the Cape (1795-1802) it was decided to establish a military base in Wynberg because of its strategic location. From 1816 until 1859 the complex remained neglected and their poor state of repair suggested possible demolition. It was however then decided to set the camp up as a sanatorium for recuperating soldiers from the Indian campaign. In 1886 an Officer's Club was added to the complex. In 1905 the detention barracks were added and remained for use as such until at least 1993. Books and articles that reference Military Base: Detention Barracks Alberts, Paul. 1992. South African military buildings photographed : an historical heritage. Cape Town: The Gallery Press. pg 72, 72-73 ill