Millennium Promenade - Capstan Square

This is called Capstan Square because there was a capstan (drum equipped with a ratchet) here for drawing taut the chain used for closing the entrance to the harbour. The chain links nearby are a modern representation of the actual links recovered from the beach in the 1930s. The chain motif is used in the Millennium Promenade to link new and existing attractions along the city’s waterfront.

The stretch of seafront to the right of the Round Tower provides an excellent view of the harbour and was a popular meeting place in the late 1800s. In 1850 it was incorporated into Point Barracks.

To the left of the Round Tower we can see a caponnier or ‘bomb-proof’ shelter which protected troops in the adjoining Point Barracks from plunging shell fire.

The chain across the harbour mouth was first recorded in the 16th century and last renewed in the 18th century, at the time of the American War of Independence.

The remains of the capstan were still in Capstan Square in 1843, and to the east of the Round Tower several links were excavated during the late 19th century (and again in 1930). Two links can be viewed in Southsea Castle.

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