Poole, with the second largest natural harbour in the world, had long been recognised as a strategically vital point on the Dorset coast. The 1539 coastal muster and harbour defence review led directly to the later construction of the Brownsea Island blockhouse to control the main channel into the harbour. The 1539 preparations reflected growing royal awareness that Poole harbour could shelter an invasion fleet if not properly defended.
None recorded
Poole town garrison and Dorset militia; harbour artillery
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