A long‑overlooked chapter of Colchester’s military past is set to be brought back into public view with a special ceremony in the city.
A blue plaque commemorating Colchester’s Napoleonic Barracks will be unveiled on June 18 for Waterloo Day.
The unveiling will take place at the Artilleryman public house on Artillery Street, with guests gathering from 10.45am ahead of the 11am ceremony.
The plaque marks the site of barracks built from 1794, which played a key role in Britain’s defences during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
By 1805, the barracks housed more than 7,000 officers and men, as well as around 500 horses.
Following the Duke of Wellington’s victory at the Battle of Waterloo, ships carrying wounded soldiers arrived at the Hythe.
Many were treated at a 450‑bed military hospital opposite the barracks, on land now occupied by the Colchester Adult Community Centre.
The hospital was later demolished, with materials reused in the construction of the Essex County Hospital.
The blue plaque will be unveiled by Colchester Garrison Commander Lieutenant Colonel ED Rankin DL.
Also attending will be the mayor of Colchester, councillor Andrew Ellis, the Mayoress Nicky Ellis, Colchester MP Pam Cox and High Steward Sir Bob Russell.
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Members of Colchester Military Heritage Group and Colchester Civic Society, which sponsored the plaque, will also be present.
Project lead Paul Knappett said the site deserved greater recognition.
He said: “Colchester is the nation’s oldest garrison city with a significant military history spanning 2000 years.
"Today, Colchester remains home to 16 Air Assault Brigade which includes the Parachute Regiment and Royal Horse Artillery.
“The Napoleonic Barracks played a vital role at a time when Britain faced the threat of invasion.
“The blue plaque will ensure this important site is remembered and recognised as part of Colchester’s remarkable military heritage.”
The plaque will become part of Colchester Civic Society’s established blue plaque trail.
Organisers hope it will help residents and visitors learn more about the city’s military history.
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