Description Comments

"Bugler Will"

Description: This portrait postcard was produced by Anderson's Studio, Palmerston North, which was established by the Norwegian-born artist and photographer Harold Anderson (1869-1926). Further research is needed to establish the identity of "Bugler Will," although a few possible candidates have been proposed.

The Manawatu Times for 2 March 1917 reports that "Bugler Appleby" performed in a concert at the Awapuni Training Camp. This probably refers to William Gilbert Appleby (1896-1977, WWI service number, 3/2899), who enlisted with the New Zealand Medical Corps in December 1916. His Military Personnel File shows he was stationed in Awapuni during 1917 and 1918.

It may also depict William James Philson (1895-1975, WWI service number, 12/2899). "Camp Notes" published in the Manawatu Times of 5 August 1915 confirm that "Bugler W. J. Philson" was stationed at the Rangiotu Camp, near Palmerston North. Philson, from Remuera, Auckland, commenced service in April 1915 and was discharged on 5 August 1919, having served at Gallipoli and in France.

The postcard was given to Harold Vincent, who served in the Australian Navy during the First World War and was donated to the Ian Matheson City Archive by his granddaughter.