Martello Towers (1)

The British built five Martello Towers between 1832 and 1835 at Grand River North West (2), Black River (2), and Port Louis, of which three survive. Cunningham Tower at Fort George, on Tonnelier Island, disappeared between 1865 and 1902. In 1865, the Mauritius Almanac and Civil Service Register listed "Two Artillery Men, at 1s each per diem", for the towers at Fort George and Grand River.[38] The Tower at Fort Victoria was last mentioned in 1880. The Friends of the Environment have restored one Martello tower near the La Preneuse public beach in Tamarin, in the Rive Noire/Black River district. The Friends operate it as a museum for visitors. The original entrance to the tower is raised above ground but a new entrance has been constructed at ground level. The other tower in Rive Noire/Black River district still exists but has remained neglected for many years. It is surrounded by additional defensive fortification.

20°21’16.70 Z

57°21’42.60 E