Keith W Roberts

This research is about creating visual interpretations of the ‘memes’ left behind by a selection of Victorian philanthropist’s who lived in Southport. Through photography, my intention is to further remember and celebrate their contribution to this seaside town.


Charles Scarisbrick (1801-1860) of Scarisbrick Hall left very specific funeral instructions a few days prior to his death.  He requested that his coffin be "carried out through the east archway, to the second gate leading into the east meadow, to follow the lower brook, until opposite to the chapel wall, to cross over up the hill to Mr. Hooles garden and into the graveyard."  His request was respected and his coffin was carried the mile distance over two ditches, through a potato field, then a meadow and finally through two purpose built holes - one made through a hedge and the other through the cemetery brick wall (Funeral Meme 01).  These images explore how that path looks today, with evidence of gates, fences and walls still in existence.


John Fernley lived at Clairville on Lord Street West and was responsible for installing a fog bell at Marshside in 1869, in response to a local tragedy when seven local shrimpers were drowned whilst lost in fog.  The Fogbell Meme images explore the exact physical space where the shrimpers were lost in similar weather conditions.


Samuel Boothroyd was the 2nd Mayor of Southport and died in the master bedroom of his home, Warley House on Duke Street in 1886.  Again, these images explore the exact physical space where Boothroyd passed away, with the room now being split into two separate bedrooms, which is now a 'themed' hotel.  Deathbed Meme 01 is now the 'Hawaiian Room'.