The construction of Hull Citadel

Abstract

Excavations in 1987-88 and 1995 revealed elements of the southern, eastern and western defences of the Hull Citadel. This was a triangular artillery fortification constructed between 1681 and 1690. It occupied a 30 acre site at the confluence of the rivers Hull and Humber. The north and east angles were strengthened by a cut-bastion, the west bastion projected as a salient platform guarding the mouth of the river Hull. The west curtain of the Citadel and the west and north bastions incorporated parts of the pre-existing Henrician defences along the east bank of the Hull. Partial research has identified ample documentation of the construction process, permitting its sequence to be summarized. The archaeological record focused upon the construction of brick and masonry scarp walls along the south, Humber, front; casemated features and passages to the east, and the curtain and north bastion on the west side of the enceinte. This is complemented by detailed documentary evidence, which extends to parts of structures beyond the reach of excavation, or which had been removed at the demolition of the Citadel. Archaeological and documentary evidence also illustrates the conversion of the Citadel to serve as an arsenal, and its rearmament during the Napoleonic Wars. It was levelled in 1865, and the defence of the Humber moved eastwards. The redevelopment of the area since 1988 has usually respected the position of major masonry structures, and a small part of the east bastion has been reconstructed as a feature within the new development. The publication of this paper was generously funded by the Robert Kiln Trust and by the Marc Fitch Fund; the contribution of the latter is especially apt given the extensive involvement of Sir Thomas and John Fitch in the campaign of works which it describes.