The Guardian

In the 17th and 18th centuries there was always conflict surrounding Newfoundland. From the battles between England and France, as well as ones from Holland, Spain and of course the pirates from those times. It makes sense that all around the narrows of St. John's you can find old canons and artillery...This canon was strategically located in upper part of The Battery know as Fort Waldegrave. It was built in the 1680s by the British Military and looking at the image you can see why it was one of great significance. Overlooking the narrows and harbour this beast could easily defend against any enemy ships that tried to gain entry into the Harbour. The only downfall was in 1762 when the French gain control by attacking the Fort from up on Signal Hill, but they didn't hold the Fort long before the British regained it. After this the British built Fort Townsend to help secure St. John's from future attacks.