A photographic portrait of an unknown beach rescue lifeguard.

Correspondent Ed Fowler suggests the sitter may be Willie 'Moosie' Sutherland, an accomplished swimmer, diver, and local life-guard.

In Allenvale Cemetery, there is an ornate granite memorial to Sutherland made by Messrs Bower & Florence of the Spittal Granite Works. It has an inscription that reads: "Erected by public subscription in memory of William Sutherland, in recognition of his gallantry in saving upwards of 120 lives from death by drowning. Born at Aberdeen, 19th January 1845, died 20th September, 1885. A hero in humble life interred here."

Obituaries in the local newspapers state that Sutherland worked as an assistant in the City Surveyor's Office. He was formerly a slater and had become an excellent draughtsman. Between five and six hundred people are reported as in attendance at his funeral.

Location

Keyword

Beach Rescue

Photographer