Hello again.
Here is another photo from the RC member who does not know how to prepare photos, to meet the forum guide lines. So I’ve volunteered to do it for them.
The subject is of a related family member who came to New Zealand in his very late 30’s after WWI and lead an active community life, in the South Island, [Geraldine / Timaru] but for what ever reason, chose to NOT bring his past with him.
It is believed he was raised in the UK [South Metropolitan / Surrey] and may have gone to sea at a very young age, as a cadet.
The NZ Returned Serviceman’s Association honoured him with his funeral, and he was known as an active bandsman, with an interest in photography and artistic things. It is thought he coloured this photo [c1930 ??], and that it is of himself in a band uniform.
Bands are very common and competitive in that part of NZ, and when new bands were raised, any uniform they could lay their hands on [like bands in recess] were made to do, until they got established.
Our ANZAC service organizers always looked for a band, and a bugler if one was available, so on April 25th attending bandsmen would attach service ribbons to their band uniform.
Extensive enquiries [including professional] in NZ and the UK, are yet to provide evidence that can validate the many and varied stories, about his life before New Zealand. Likewise the jury is out on this uniform, and the row of colours upon his chest.
Clutching at straws, but a new set of eyes, more familiar with the subject of photographs and or uniforms may pick on a point / clue that suggests a way forward.
Assistance appreciated.
- Alan,
