FRANKFORD ARSENAL Meaning and
Definition
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Frankford Arsenal refers to a historical and renowned facility situated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, primarily known for its role in supporting the United States Army's ammunition needs. The Frankford Arsenal was established in 1816 and functioned as an integral part of the nation's defense infrastructure until its closure in 1977.
In its essence, the Frankford Arsenal can be defined as a prolific military installation specializing in the production, development, and testing of various munitions for the United States Army. The facility was dedicated to the design and manufacturing of small arms ammunition, artillery shells, and other forms of military ordnance. Not only did it hold expertise in producing conventional ammunition, but it also played a pivotal role in the research and development of advanced weapons systems.
Furthermore, the Frankford Arsenal was renowned for maintaining an extensive testing and research program. This involved examining the performance, quality, and safety of different ammunition types under diverse conditions. The facility's testing grounds facilitated accurate assessments of ammunition reliability, ballistics, and overall functionality, contributing to the advancement of military armament technology.
Due to its long-standing history and pivotal contributions to the United States military, the Frankford Arsenal holds a prominent place within American military heritage. Today, it serves as a lasting symbol of ingenuity, innovation, and dedication to ensuring the nation's defense capabilities throughout various eras of American history.
Etymology of FRANKFORD ARSENAL
The word "Frankford Arsenal" can be broken down into two parts: "Frankford" and "Arsenal".
"Frankford" refers to the name of a neighborhood in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The name itself can be traced back to a small settlement established by German Quaker settlers in the late 1600s, who named it after their hometown of Frankfurt in Germany. Over time, "Frankford" became the name of the area.
"An Arsenal" refers to a military establishment for the storage, production, and maintenance of weapons and ammunition. The word "arsenal" has its roots in several languages, but ultimately comes from the Italian word "arsenale", which originally referred to a dockyard or naval station in the city of Venice.
When combined, "Frankford Arsenal" refers to a specific United States Army ammunition plant and research center established in the Frankford neighborhood of Philadelphia in 1816.
