The Bells of Sale

This charming group consists of my Borthwick great-grandparents: William, standing in the middle, wearing the light suit and a black armband, and Ada Maud Mary (Bell), seated, third from left.

She is surrounded by members of her enormous Bell family, including her parents, seated in the wicker chairs on the right, and Mrs. Bell's ancient mother, tiny Mrs. Wallen, who presides in the middle with her cane. The older gentleman on the far left must be a Bell or Wallen uncle, and the remainder Bell siblings, including Aunt Ethel Cavanagh; Aunt Gwladys Bowman (affectionately known as Paddy), and Uncle Arthur E. Bell, top right, with his cheerful pet sulphur-crested cockatoo.

The photograph was taken in about 1890 outside the National Bank of Australasia in Sale, of which my great-grandfather was for the time being manager, while his father-in-law was manager of the local branch of the Bank of New South Wales.

It is said that William first met Ada whilst she was kicking a football in the garden of her father's bank.