This maritime complex was established during a period marked by intense competition among European nations vying for dominance at sea to secure authority over the profitable sugar-producing islands in the Eastern Caribbean.

[1] This natural setting served as an ideal hurricane shelter and a location for careening and repairing wooden ships during the Age of Sail, safeguarded by the fortified surrounding highlands.

Over approximately 40 years, a diverse range of buildings, structures, and facilities, including water tanks and catchments, were erected in the dockyard area to support a permanent military force.

[4] This military presence aimed to safeguard planters' interests against external and internal threats, as well as conduct raids against rival European powers in nearby islands.

A second phase of construction and expansion unfolded in 1781 and persisted for subsequent decades at English Harbour and the surrounding hills, extending from the Blockhouse to the Lookout Point, with a primary focus on defensive measures.

[4] Following the establishment of British hegemony in 1814 and the subsequent decline in economic significance of the Leeward Islands, the strategic importance of the Antigua Naval Dockyard waned.

Through an intensive fundraising campaign, supported by members of the British royal family and other notable figures, the society successfully raised the necessary funds to restore the dockyard structures within five years.