Binoculars have played a critical role in military history, aiding soldiers, officers, and observers in battles and strategic planning. From World War I through World War II, advancements in optical technology resulted in the creation of durable and high-performance binoculars tailored for military use. In this post, we will explore seven fascinating military binoculars spanning […]
The Royal Air Force (RAF), established on 1 April 1918, was the world’s first independent air force, formed by merging the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS). Created during the final year of World War I, the RAF played a pivotal role in shaping the future of aerial warfare. From
Recently we had quite the pickup come into our shop - a Switch from 'Q' Turret on HMS Lion... with plenty of history behind it - we decided to feature it as October's item of the month - and tell you a bit of history about the item, and the brilliant ship that was HMS
Maritime history is rich with tales of adventure, bravery, and innovation. Today, we delve into five unique artefacts in our shop that each tell a story from the past, shedding light on the lives of those who served at sea and the tools they used. From a letter signed by one of history's most famous
Christmas, a joyous time of festivities and traditions, brings warmth and togetherness to people around the world. But have you ever wondered about the history behind this beloved holiday? Join us on a captivating journey through time as we explore the origins of Christmas and its significance in different cultures. As you delve into the
Why is Portsmouth called Pompey? Actually, no one knows. The current theories are… The original colour of Portsmouth Football Club was pink so this led to references to Madame Pompdadour who often wore pink. Bombay was part of the wedding gift of Catherine of Braganza to Charles II. Portuguese seaman saw a resemblance between
~ HMS Victory - The Iconic Ship That Refused To Die! ~ Ok, we all know about HMS Victory, Nelson and the battle of Trafalgar. Absoultely humbling and history basics. But here is what HMS Victory went through post Trafalgar. 1) In late April 1854, HMS Victory sprang a leak and sank. All on board
The Plains rifle is an iconic firearm that played a significant role in the expansion of the United States westward during the 19th century. The rifle was developed specifically for the frontier, and its design reflected the unique challenges and opportunities of the region. In the early 1800s, the western frontier was largely unexplored and
Did you know that Portsea Island is probably the most geologically diverse city (am using my old school Geolgy 'O' level on this one!) in the UK, caused by the retreat of lowering seas from the last ice age, covering dinosaurs, their extinction and the birth of mammals in three sections? Walking from South to
How a former Victorian Southsea apprentice, who worked at Draper’s Emporium on the corner of King’s Road and St Paul’s Road between 1881 and 1883 (sadly levelled by WW2 German air raids on 10/01/1941), ideals inspired and more than influenced the creation of the United Nations and its key charters. In 1940, Mr W published
Another Portsmouth first, the British birthplace of free education for our children. John Pounds (June 17, 1766 – January 1, 1839) was a teacher and altruist born in Portsmouth, and the man most responsible for the creation of the concept of Ragged schools. A Portsmouth cobbler, he began teaching poor children without charging fees in
The Saxons settled on Portsea Island in the 6th century by a warrior called Coppa. He owned a stretch of shoreline, in the Saxon language an 'ora'. Today we put an apostrophe s at the end of a person's name but the Saxons put the letter 'n' so it was called Coppan ora. As Copenore,
Ding dong, ding dong! We all know and love our Chimes... ? Played from the five bells in the Guildhall bell tower, collectively nicknamed The Pompey Chimes, as they inspired the football chant of the same name. The largest of the five bells, Victoria is named after Queen Victoria and is inscribed with her name,
The English Civil War is usually said to have begun when King Charles I raised his standard at Nottingham on the 22nd August 1642. But conflict had looked inevitable since the 18th June, when the King rejected the Nineteen Propositions, an ultimatum sent by parliament. On the 2nd August 1642, The siege of Portsmouth, which
