The forts in peace time

In times of peace the forts were left vacant and basically empty of furnishings (such as beds, tables, benches, etc.), which were stored in military depots to protect them against moisture. These wooden depots were outside the moat at the back of the fort. Beside the depot was a wooden or brick house in which the guardsman of the fort lived alone or with his family. He was in charge of the fort, the military buildings and the inundation sluices. A military commander took over command during periods of mobilisation.