Monument record MBC44971 - A Second World War roadside ammunition dump, Rectory Farm

A Second World War roadside ammunition dump is visible on historic aerial photographs and was mapped as part of the North Buckinghamshire Aerial Investigation and Mapping project (EBC18304). Located adjacent Rectory Farm along the south side of the lane between Stratton Audley Park and Poundon and centred at SP 63732 26172, the ammunition storage area comprises 6 rectangular buildings, each about 5 x 3 metres. Four of the buildings are sited with long sides perpendicular to the lane, the remaining two being parallel with the lane. They are spaced between 8-10 metres apart and spread out over 55 metres. These portable corrugated iron shelters, or hutments, were usually camouflaged and covered stacks of artillery or small arms ammunition. Roadside storage not only made the ammunition easily accessible but dispersed the risk of a large loss of munitions in one event as a result of a German air raid or accidental explosion. Visible on aerial photographs taken in 1946, all have been demolished by 1947 (1-4).