Hesketh Park’s Fernley Observatory

Hesketh Park’s famous Fernley Observatory (also known as the Baxendell/Fernley) Observatory) was explored by the public today during an open event hosted by the Southport Astronomical Society.

Today’s observatory opening (20 July) marks 50 years to the day since the Apollo 11 landing. Apollo 11 was the spaceflight that first landed humans on the Moon.

Data from Historic England: Observatory. 1877; telescope dated 1869, manufactured by T Cooke and Sons, York and London (on brass plaque). For Joseph Baxendell (1815-1887). Erected in Hesketh Park in 1901. Redbrick in stretcher bond with stone keystones and imposts; timber first floor and probably lead roof and dome; cast-iron steps stamped “MASONS PATENT”. Rectangular on plan.

https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1379586

The biblical text which has surrounded the apparatus inside the wall of the construction for more than a century is taken from Psalm 19, and reads: ‘The Heavens Declare The Glory Of God; And The Firmament Sheweth His Handywork’.

John Fernley (1796-1873), a conspicuous philanthropist, contributed the astronomical and meteorological structures a few years before he passed away.

Fernley was a Christian fundamentalist who became regarded by some as an unrecognised champion and patron, having constructed other buildings in the seaside town.

Fernley was also on the RNLI committee. He presented the ill-fated Eliza Fernley lifeboat, which was named after his late wife, to the town. The boat was however later lost with almost all crewmen in the terrible ‘Mexico disaster’ of 1886.

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