| This cabinet photograph appears to show three male generations of an Ilford, Essex family from in or around the 1890s. My guess is that the young Royal Artillery gunner was photographed with his father (standing right) and his grandfather seated center in the place of honor. A recent looking pencil notation on this photograph's reverse side reads: "Essex Artillery Volunteers". While this soldier may well have been a member of that volunteer organization, outwardly there appears to be nothing in his uniform or accouterments that would lead one to confirm this. But Bruce Bassett Powell of uniformology.com points out the absence of Royal Artillery collar badges on his uniform is indeed consistent with the dress practices of the Eastern Division of the 1st Essex Artillery Volunteers. He appears to be armed with a Martini Henry carbine and the sword bayonet issued to gunners. His Oliver pattern water bottle is also partially visible. Cabinet Photograph Art Photographic Co. - Photographer 1st Albans Garden, Seven Kings, Ilford, Essex, England 1890s |
