The French Fort at Eyemouth - 1557

The French Fort at Eyemouth - 1557

Culture,Intangible Heritage

The fort at Eyemouth changed the course of history, and not just that of Scotland, it played a significant role in the relationships between Scotland, England and France. Beginning life as an English fortification, it may have been the first Trace Italienne fort in Britain, reflecting the recent developments in warfare with the introduction of canons and gunpowder, which rendered stone walls very vulnerable. The huge earth banks you can still see today were far more effective at withstanding attack from canons, as they could absorb the impact of the cannon balls. - The SCAPE Trust In the 1980’s Dr David Caldwell conducted excavations at Eyemouth Fort. With his knowledge and archaeological evidence, along with historical research undertaken in the School of History, we have created a virtual representation of how we believe the fort may have looked in 1557. The Eyemouth model recreates the English and French fortifications above the town. Constructed during the ‘Rough Wooing’ in the sixteenth century, Eyemouth Fort played a pivotal role in the relationship between Scotland, England and France. All that remains today are the enormous earthworks, and it can be difficult to understand the remains without seeing them from the air. This reconstruction was part of the Virtual Histories Project for Eyemouth Museum.

reconstructions,tours

2013

image/jpeg

Reconstruction

186

In Copyright (InC)

current,55.877103,-2.092401;

https://www.openvirtualworlds.org/eyemouth-fort-1557-2/

https://www.youtube.com/embed/v2NkMLXLIk8

Virtual Histories Project

TEXT

https://canmore.org.uk/site/60188

A digital landscape was created using survey data and a height map. Models were created in 3D modelling programs and imported into OpenSim (an online, open-source, cross-platform, 3D multi-user virtual environment). The models were then scaled, oriented and assembled. The landscapes were populated with flora and fauna. Where applicable, models of characters and animals were imported and animated.

Working with the archaeological evidence, experts from SCAPE Trust and Eyemouth group Friends of the Fort, we were able to build a picture of how the fort may have looked and how it was occupied.

David Caldwell (Society of Antiquaries of Scotland), Tom Dawson (University of St Andrews) Fiona Glover (Friends of Eyemouth Fort)

Sarah Kennedy, Iain Oliver, Ariana Ellis, Alan Miller (University of St Andrews)

1557