Local History

Generally known as the Legge Survey, named after Colonel George Legge who was the Lieutenant General of Ordnance, it is an appraisal of Guernsey's defensive capabilities conducted in 1680 and including watercolour illustrations.

The two originals reports are kept at the British Library and the National Maritime Museum, but a later copy made in the 1850s by Clarence Hopper for Guernsey's Royal Court is held by the Island Archives Service.

Map of the Clos du Valle in the survey

The survey lists the ordnance at the island's various batteries including the South Battery at Castle Cornet which contained cannons called Demi-culverins, Minions and Murderers.

It also contains an essay on Guernsey's constitution and administration by Christopher Hatton who was the Governor of the island at the time, famous for being blown out of his bed when Castle Cornet's magazine exploded in 1672.

Island Archivist Dr Darryl Ogier described it as "something of an artefact itself, it's a lovely Victorian piece".

Lots of warehouses in St Peter Port

The watercolours give a vivid picture of St Peter Port at the time with Castle Cornet needing repair, the Town Church spire towering above the skyline, the large number of warehouses showing the high level of commerce.

Also rocks and a beach can be seen where the Crown Pier and North Beach Car Park are now sited.

Use of images of the Legge Survey is courtesy of Guernsey's Royal Court.