New Member – The Cart and Wagon Shed

Welcome to a new member of Museums Essex, The Cart and Wagon Shed in Shoeburyness. Here an introduction from Chris Spall, Director:

The Cart and Wagon Shed is an early example of a prefabricated iron-frame ex-military building constructed around 1860. It is Grade II listed for its special architectural or historic interest and has been repurposed as a heritage and community centre.  

It sits at the heart of the Shoebury Garrison which includes many fine examples of Victorian military architecture and about half of the listed buildings in the city of Southend-on-Sea. The site offers panoramic views across the Thames Estuary and lies alongside Gunners Park and close to nature reserves. Shoeburyness was first used for military purposes by Romans and Danes, the nearby remains of whose camp are now a scheduled ancient monument. The Shoebury Garrison developed as a major military base during the 19th century, specialising in artillery training and weapons research, development and testing which had international significance. During World War I, it hosted Britain’s first war dog and anti-aircraft schools. The growth of the base helped foster civilian development with a thriving brick-making industry and a new railway line that opened the area up to seaside tourism and commuters. 

The Cart and Wagon Shed houses the Shoebury Archives, a collection of documents and artefacts related to the distinctive history of Shoeburyness. The display hall features permanent displays of items from the collection and themed temporary exhibitions. There is an onsite cafe and toilet facilities that make the Cart and Wagon Shed an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area.

The Cart and Wagon Shed is in the process of seeking new funding to upgrade its exhibitions and community-related activities and hopes to move towards accredited museum status.

Find out more here: https://www.cartandwagonshed.org/.