Amazing photo-card on Trade Me Auction site today. It is a photo from Foy Bros of Shortland Thames, and shows a young man in uniform.Those of you lucky enough to have a photo from Foy's of Shortland (Thames), will no doubt recognise the props that are used. They generic for many photographers of the late 1800s and early 1900s. There is a Large curtain backdrop, a table with cloth and book and the beautifully ornate chair.
The trader selling the card reports the words 'naval brigade' can be made out on the beret hat.
That could be the end of the story, yet another unknown Thamesite...but in this case there is writing on the back of the card! It reads: "This is a photo of Mr Alfred Leach he is a couison (sic) to Mr A Shone of Collingwood St Nelson.
Are you related to either of these men?
Thames had a strong tradition of voluntary military groups from the time the goldfields opened. The newspapers of the day are full of reports of prize-givings, balls and other displays. So far I can not yet locate Alfred Leach of Thames...still looking.
