See how Victorian engineers overcame problems of sewage pollution that caused diseases such as cholera. This impressive Victorian building contains different spectacular engines and pumps. Click on the links below to download and print activity sheets for use during your visit.
Why was the beam engine house built?
Because the city of Portsmouth is a low-lying island with poor natural drainage, sewage and waste often polluted the water supply, resulting in many deaths from diseases such as cholera. A new drainage system was introduced in 1868 using gravity to move sewage across Portsea Island to Eastney, from where it was pumped out to sea.
As the city’s population increased, more pumping power was needed and the beam engines that can still be seen today were installed. The engines played an important part in improving the health and living standards of everyone in Portsmouth. When they were retired from normal use, the beam engines were still kept in operating condition as a backup until 1954. Maintenance of the engines and pumps was discontinued after 1954.
