Number and Size of Guns:
|
Number
|
Size
|
Weight
|
Full crew
|
Half crew
|
|
28
|
long 24 pounder
|
2.50 tons/2.54 tonnes
|
12
|
6
|
On this Deck:
THE WARDROOM ~ GALLEY ~ MARINES ~ CAPSTANS
The Wardroom: Found at the stern (back) the wardroom served as the living quarters for the Victory's officers. Split from the rest of the deck by removable wooden panels, there were 4 cabins arranged along the sides. In the centre of the wardroom was a shared dining table . This part of the Victory is still used by the Royal Navy today and is not open to the public.
Galley: The galley provided the cooking facilities for all of the Victory's crew. Located towards the bow (front) it is made up of two parts. Enclosed on three sides by wooden panels is the pantry where the food was prepared. The food was cooked on a cast iron stove called a Brodie Stove. The stove has 2 ovens that could cook up to 80lbs of bread; 2 copper kettles that could cook 250 gallons of stew; a grill and an automated spit for roasting meat. There is also a copper distiller that could produce 2 gallons (9.10 ltrs) of fresh water a day.
Marines: Commanded by a Captain of Marines, the middle gun deck was home to the Victory's 146 Royal Marines. The 4 marine officers shared the wardroom with the naval officers. The 142 sergeants and privates ate and slept between the 24 pounder guns. The Royal Marines slept on this deck for two reasons. First, the marines and sailors liked to eat and sleep separately. Second, as volunteers the marines were trusted to protect the officers in the event of a mutiny, although outright mutinies were very rare.
Capstans: The drumheads (top part) of the Victory's two capstans can be found on the middle gun deck. The main capstan is located towards the stern (back) and was used to raise the anchors. The jeer capstan is in the centre of the deck and was used to lift stores, boats and guns, as well as raising masts and yards (spars). Metal posts surrounding the capstan in the picture can be swung out of the way so that it can be turned.
