1945 ⁓ 𝕃𝕀𝔹𝔼ℝ𝔸𝕋𝕀𝕆ℕ 𝔻𝔸𝕐 ⁓ 2025

MP1 - Chouet

Chouet Tower

In 1942 Chouet Tower was constructed on Chouet Headland, found nearby to the quarry, which had been flooded, The tower was designated as Marine Peilstand und Messtellen 1. Each of the 5 levels served a separate Naval Batterie. At the base of the tower there was an Army Observation Post mounted. The tower was constructed to 'Fortress Standard' and was a standard type of Marine Peilstand, with similar towers found at Pleinmont and elsewhere in the Channel Islands.

Early on March 22nd 1991 the tower slid from its position atop the cliff edge and fell inside. The tower was set for demolition just 4 hours later using explosives. The loss of MP1 made waves within the preservation community. It emphasised the need to preserve the most prominent remains of the occupation for future generations. The loss of the tower indirectly lead to the preservation of many other structures and fortifications that can carry on the towers' legacy. An almost identical tower is to be found at Pleinmont, under the care of the Guernsey Occupation Museum (see MP3 - Pleinmont)

MP1 Tower in 1991, Prior too collapse. The Observation Post M2 had already collapsed.

Guernsey Evening Press

Workers examine the remains of MP1 inside the Chouet Quarry, March 22 1991

Guernsey Evening Press

A color photograph showing the tower, taken around 1980-1985

Another view showing MP1 perched atop its cliff edge, note the Army Observation Post M2.

A small construction mounted besides the tower. Note the windows have been filled.

MP1 lies broken in the quarry the day after.

Ron Bakker

Another angle.

Ron Bakker

The tower was a great loss for historical presevation.

Note the distance back from the quarry, and the observation post. Likely taken between 1945-1970

The shattered remains are a morbid site, adorned with spray-paint swastikas. Note the marks below (or in this case above) the door. This is where sand and other debris had covered for decades.