Perham Downs
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 1914 tent version | |
 Winter of 1916-17 Aussies in huts | |
| History | |
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Contents
Remarks
Perham Down (nicknamed Perishing Down) between Tidworth & Ludgershall was part of the Tedworth Estate purchased by the Army in 1897. At the outbreak of the 1914-18 war, Tent City was home to some of the British soldiers and recruits who were concentrated on Salisbury Plain and under canvass until at least Dec 8th 1914. Marquees blew away in winter gales from over their sleeping heads - hence Perishing Down. Things improved in 1915 when a hutted camp was built on the site for 5,000 men.
Of four Australian command depots in the UK dealing with soldiers who had been discharged from Hospital and needed training before being sent to France, Number 1 was at Perham Downs.
It also housed the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Training Battalions, and the Pioneer Training Battalion.
Soldiers
Notes