Sarah Whitley facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sarah Whitley
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Whitley (second left) in Roundhay Garden Scene directed by Louis Le Prince
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| Born |
Sarah Robinson
1816 Wakefield, Yorkshire, England
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| Died | October 24, 1888 (aged 71–72) UK
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| Spouse(s) | |
| Children | 3 |
Sarah Whitley (born Sarah Robinson, 1816 – 24 October 1888) was a very important person in early film history. She is known as the earliest-born woman to ever appear in a movie. She was filmed by her son-in-law, Louis Le Prince, just ten days before she passed away at the age of 72.
Contents
A Pioneer in Early Film
Sarah Whitley made history by appearing in one of the very first films ever made. This short film is called Roundhay Garden Scene. It was filmed in 1888.
The First Film Appearance
In the film Roundhay Garden Scene, you can see Sarah Whitley walking or even dancing backwards. This was filmed in the garden of her home. It was a very new and exciting thing to do back then!
Her Family and the Film
Sarah Whitley's husband, Joseph Whitley, also appears in the film. They were the parents of Elizabeth, who was married to Louis Le Prince. Louis Le Prince was a clever inventor and a pioneer in making movies. The film was shot in their garden at Oakwood Grange, which is in Roundhay, Leeds, England. This happened on October 14, 1888.
Why This Film is Special
Sarah Whitley's appearance in Roundhay Garden Scene is very important. She passed away just ten days after the film was made. This helps us know for sure that Roundhay Garden Scene is one of the oldest surviving films in the world. It shows us how early movies were made and who was involved.
Firsts in Film History
Sarah Whitley holds a special place in history. She is the earliest-born woman known to have appeared in a film. To give you an idea, the earliest-born man to be filmed was Pope Leo XIII. He was born in 1810 and filmed in 1896. Sarah Whitley was also the first person known to have appeared in a film who later passed away.
Her Passing
Sarah Whitley passed away on October 24, 1888. Her gravestone is in the churchyard of St John's Church in Roundhay. It helps us remember her important role in the very beginning of movies.
Films She Appeared In
Sarah Whitley appeared in two films. One was filmed during her lifetime, and the other used old footage of her.
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1888 | Roundhay Garden Scene | Self | A very short film |
| 2015 | The First Film | Self | This film used old footage of her |
