Visitors to the Scottish Maritime Museum in Irvine encounter Robert Forsythe’s legacy whenever they enter the Linthouse. Robert, who died on 13 August following a short illness, was the Museum’s first curator and an important figure in its formative years.

Joining the Museum in 1986, Robert brought knowledge, professional discipline and a deep commitment to industrial heritage. At a time when the Museum was still developing its collections and working practices, he helped establish rigorous approaches to documentation, conservation and collections care. He is remembered as forthright and determined in defending professional standards, but also as someone who brought warmth and genuine enthusiasm to his work and colleagues.

Robert’s defining contribution followed a visit to Stephen’s shipyard in 1987, when it emerged that its remarkable former engine shop was due to be demolished. Recognising the building as an increasingly rare monument to Scottish marine engineering, Robert became one of its strongest advocates. His experience of the preservation of industrial buildings at Ironbridge helped demonstrate that the structure could be carefully dismantled, moved and eventually re-erected.

Saving the building required an extraordinary collective effort, but Robert’s expertise, conviction and determination were central to making it possible. Rebuilt in Irvine, the Linthouse now forms the centrepiece of the Museum and remains a fitting memorial to his contribution.

The Museum remembers Robert with gratitude and extends its sincere condolences to his family, friends and former colleagues.

This remembrance draws upon recollections kindly shared by the Museum’s founding director, Campbell McMurray.