THE SHOOTING FIELD

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the effective firing range of cannons were approximately 800-1000 meters. Approximately 400 meters could be covered with muskets, but 75-100 meters was common for aimed fire. The defenders shot at the attackers from covered positions. To maintain this advantage, the field of fire was ‘cleared’: trees were cut down and houses were burned.

Top display plate

On the top plate of the display case are massive iron cannonballs that were found in 1984 during dredging work in the Fort aan de Buursteeg. The small lead bullets were found near Rhenen and the Amerongse berg. At the front is a saber bayonet that was used by the Dutch army from 1870. The metal cross is a badge of honor for soldiers who took part in the Ten Days Campaign (1831) against Belgium, which fought for independence. When the Belgians succeeded, the Grebbe Line became important again and was restored to its former glory.

Middle display plate

On the center plate are large iron shrapnel pieces from the 18th century. They were found in the moat of the Fort on the Buursteeg. Another find concerns a horseshoe that is dated to the late 18th century. During that period, Dutch, French and British horsemen were active in the fort. Finally, a drawing shows the profile of the Grebbe Line in the 18th century.

Bottom display plate

On the bottom plate is a map of the Hoornwerk on the Grebbe, which had to protect the important lock at the Grebbeberg. Through this lock, inundation water from the Lower Rhine could be admitted to the Grebbe Line. The scale on the right recalls the connection with the Betuwestelling from 1799.