Powder Magazine Beechworth

Built in 1860 to store the gunpowder used in the local gold mining, the powder magazine was designed to minimise the risk of explosion. Only copper fittings were used and an elaborate lightening rod was fitted. People entering had to wear special shoes. Should an explosion occur the design of the building and compound would ensure the blast traveled upwards. The magazine closed in 1918 and fell into decay. The roof was removed to stop vagrants sleeping there and was almost demolished. The National Trust restored the building in 1966.

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