2-995-727 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Deptford Rifle Corps (34th Kent) forming earthworks for their shooting-ground by torchlight, 1860. Volunteer soldiers building a practice-range. '...in order to ensure the safety of the range, it was determined by the corps to increase the height a third more...it was resolved by the members to gain some practical experience of pioneering and fieldwork by constructing the proposed addition themselves...The work thus spiritedly accomplished consists of a principal earthwork (faced with a brick revetment)...and a flank piece (for the protection of a public path passing on that side)...the whole work containing upwards of 500 tons of earth...The accompanying Sketch was taken...when the work was approaching completion, and while the volunteers were labouring, as they have been obliged to do for three-fourths of the time, by the light of lanterns, torches, and coal-fires...The example of self-reliance which has thus been shown by the Deptford company was originally suggested by Captain Allan, of the Royal London Militia, a resident in the neighbourhood, from whose assistance this company has derived much benefit, and who has throughout lent the most valuable aid, with head and hand, in planning and carrying out the fieldwork'. From "Illustrated London News", 1860.