Fire destroys the Grand Armoury in the Tower of London

Background. The Tower of London has historically served as an armoury, providing a professional basis for procuring supplies and equipment in times of war. The Grand Storehouse, constructed in 1688, was located north of the White Tower on the site of dilapidated Tudor range storehouses. This building was central to the Tower's function as a military depot before its destruction.

The Fire. The Grand Storehouse was destroyed by fire in 1841. This event marked the end of the building that had stood since 1688. The fire occurred in the same year as a significant outbreak of disease in the garrison, caused by poor water supply, which resulted in several deaths. The destruction of the armoury was a major incident in the Tower's history.

Aftermath. Following the fire, the site of the destroyed Grand Storehouse was later developed with the Waterloo Block, a former barracks in the castellated Gothic Revival style. This building was constructed on the site and remains to this day, housing the Crown Jewels on the ground floor.

Site Redevelopment. The site of the destroyed Grand Storehouse was later developed with the Waterloo Block, a former barracks in the castellated Gothic Revival style. This building was constructed on the site and remains to this day, housing the Crown Jewels on the ground floor.