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  • science
  1. Home
  2. Science

Science

The manufacture of gunpowder began as a black art, although it required a careful skill.  It was not until the 19th century that procedures and processes were refined to produce a reliable product with the best results.  This was achieved with a growing understanding and application of the science behind the technology.  Indeed the key to the success of the Royal Gunpowder Mills was the consistent use of the scientific method.  

At the heart of the scientific method is careful observation, carefully designed experiments, accurately recording results and the drawing of conclusions. The Royal Gunpowder Mills successfully used these principles to move away from the days of alchemy and guesswork to provide a robust systematic approach to problem solving and the development of new technologies and materials.

The work of the Royal Gunpowder Mills has appeared many in reputable journals such as New Scientist and Scientific American. There is even a reference to the site on the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) website archive for work done on sonic boom simulation charges.

Science for Children

Come and see mad Professor Nitrate in the Mad Lab where they will demonstrate hands-on experiments in a fun and practical way. See our rocket vault, which showcases many examples of the technological mechanisms developed at Waltham Abbey and there are guides on hand to answer any questions.

Interact with Science

Some of the scientists who worked at the Royal Gunpowder Mills are now active volunteers.  They relish any opportunity to explain the exhibits or describe their work in decades past.  So why not come along and put them to the test.  You've heard the phrase "It's not Rocket Science,"  Well here at the Rocket Vault, it really is!

Ballistic Pendula

Ballistic Pendula

The first ballistic pendulum was invented in 1742 by Benjamin Robbins to measure the explosive energy of gunpowder. There are 2 pendula (or pendulums) on display, which were donated by the Health & Safety Establishment at Buxton... Read more

Published: 4th July, 2019

Updated: 17th March, 2022

Author: Ian MacFarlane

The Rocket Vault

The Rocket Vault

Explore our Rocket Vault which holds 19th century gunpowder rockets through to Cold War guided missiles. Read more

Published: 21st May, 2019

Updated: 21st July, 2022

Author: Emily Cross

The Armoury

The Armoury

Discover how firearms changed over the centuries by visiting our collection of over 300 historic firearms. Read more

Published: 21st June, 2018

Updated: 21st July, 2022

Author: Emily Cross

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  • December Opening

    December Opening

    JTT Events are returning to the Royal Gunpowder Mills for a fun and festive weekend in December! Tickets are on sale now

  • How to Get Here

    How to Get Here

    Find out more about where we're located and how to get here by all types of transport.

  • Visitor Map

  • Virtual Tours

    Virtual Tours

    Explore our site from the comfort of home.

  • Public Openings

    Public Openings

  • Jobs

    Jobs

    General Manager at the Royal Gunpowder Mills

  • Tractor Trailer Guided Tours

    Tractor Trailer Guided Tours

    Take a 25 minute guided Tractor Trailer Guided Tour to the 'out of bounds' parts of the Royal Gunpowder Mills.

  • Our Purpose

    The purpose of the charity is to preserve, manage, research, conserve and display for the benefit of the general public and of the nation at large the historical and archaeological heritage of the Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey in the form of ancient monuments, listed buildings and the natural aspect features and bird, animal, tree and plant life.

  • The Armoury

    The Armoury

    Discover how firearms changed over the centuries by visiting our collection of over 300 historic firearms.

  • Royal Gunpowder Mills Digital Archive

    Royal Gunpowder Mills Digital Archive

    After the closure of ERDE, the archive material inherited passed through a number of hands and storage locations before opening to the public as an online database.

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Royal Gunpowder Mills Digital Archive

Royal Gunpowder Mills Digital Archive

After the closure of ERDE, the archive material inherited passed through a number of hands and storage locations before opening to the public as an online database. Read more

Published: 4th July, 2018

Updated: 10th March, 2022

Author: Ian MacFarlane

RGM Historic Book Reprint Series

RGM Historic Book Reprint Series

The Historic Reprint Series are Facsimilie reprints of books having historical relevance to the development and manufacture of gunpowder at the Royal Gunpowder Mills. Read more

Published: 19th July, 2019

Updated: 22nd July, 2022

Author: Ian MacFarlane

RGM Book Series

RGM Book Series

Books about the history of the Royal Gunpowder Mills written by Archive Volunteers. Read more

Published: 19th July, 2019

Updated: 8th November, 2023

Author: Ian MacFarlane

Help Royal Gunpowder Mills!

Help Royal Gunpowder Mills!

The Royal Gunpowder Mills has now reopened following a two year closure due to the coronavirus pandemic. Please donate to help continue our Charity’s work. Read more

Donate Fundraise

Published: 17th June, 2020

Updated: 15th May, 2023

Author:

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Royal Gunpowder Mills is a charity registered in England and Wales (No. 1062968).

Contact us

Royal Gunpowder Mills,
Beaulieu Drive,
Waltham Abbey,
Essex, EN9 1JY
United Kingdom

[email protected]
01992 707370

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