Crowmarsh Battle Farm
CROWMARSH BATTLE FARM: Temporary aerodrome
Note: These maps and pictures were kindly provided by Mr Michael T Holder
Operated by: Royal Flying Corps
Location: Just NE of Wallingford town centre
Period of operation: August 1912
NOTES: This site was brought into being during the truly massive military exercises in 1912 which extended from Salisbury Plain up into Oxfordshire and, from memory, even into Cambridgeshire. The Royal Flying Corps were in their infancy regarding the operation of aeroplanes, and it seems the military top brass were divided as to the possible benefits they could offer for reconnaissance. Perhaps, needless to say, they very quickly proved their worth.
It is claimed in some circles that these exercises were designed to prove how effective the military could be if a big European war broke out in which the UK would have to get involved. Mike Holder, who is a great friend of this 'Guide' has managed to unearth this newpaper account from the Faringdon Advertiser and Vale of the White Horse Gazette published on the 24th August 1912. And of course we need to bear in mind that the now famous RAF BENSON did not come into being until 1939 and the outbreak of WW2.
BENSON
"ARMY AEROPLANES. - Although the army manoeuvres this year are being held in a area away from Abingdon and neighbourhood, residents there will have an opportunity of seeing something of this most interesting arm of His Majesty's land forces. A camp is being formed near Benson for the Royal Flying Corps, where some thirty aeroplanes and ten airships, it is stated, will be stationed for employment with the Cavalry Division training and army manoeuvres."
My note: Typically when reporting a story, (and nothing has changed since), reporters invariably get their facts mixed up. In 1912, if we can believe generally reported data (?) the RFC had thirty six aeroplanes and ten manned balloons. Perhaps it can be forgiven that the reporter could not realise the difference between a tethered balloon and an airship. And indeed, in those days, most people in the UK would not have seen an airship or aeroplane.
However, it seems extremely unlikely that almost the entire force would have been stationed here, albiet rather briefly? Advice will be most welcome.
"The site selected for the camp is on land belonging to Mr F. B. Chamberlain, and is situated on the right hand side of the road leading from Wallingford to Benson. The land actually engaged is some 40 acres in extent, and is admirably adapted for the purpose. Part of it is a large level meadow, the remainder is clover, and there is no timber near enough to interfere with the airman. The local public will no doubt keenly anticipate an opportunity of witnessing the wonderful sight (and) the presence of so many aeroplanes will afford, and the position of the camp is such that admirable views will be obtainable from the public roads in the vicinity. In addition to the visit of the Royal Flying Camp [sic], it is understood that some thousands of cavalrymen will be passing through the district early in September on their way to the manoeuvres area."
ANOTHER ASPECT
There is a report of a Royal Flying Corps Deperdussin of No.3 Squadron, (based at LARKHILL), with two on board, crashing with fatal results, after taking off from here near Graveley, Hitchin in Hertfordshire. The destination was RFC WILLIAN near LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY.
MORE INFORMATION
Mike Holder later uncovered this information. It now appears that the work of the RFC was mapped out on progressive lines. The first phase here involved four aircraft. The second phase eight aircraft plus an airship. The third phase was twenty four aircraft plus four airships. It also appears that a hangar was erected - but only large enough for one aircraft.
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