This image taken in 1898, shows two prominent Aberdeen citizens crossing St. Nicholas Street under the watchful gaze of a statue of Queen Victoria. The building behind them was then the Town and County (now Clydesdale) Bank.

These two individuals were lifelong friends and both came from a poor background, however their industry and intelligence, combined with self education led to their successful careers.

William Cadenhead on the left began work in a thread factory but later became a traveller for a wine and spirit merchant, eventually succeeding to the business. He died on 11th December 1904 aged 85.

William Carnie on the right was apprenticed as an engraver, but his ambition to write for newspapers was fulfilled when he began on the North of Scotland Gazette.

In 1861, Carnie was appointed as Clerk and Treasurer of Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and the Royal Lunatic Asylum. After his retirement he wrote three volumes entitled Reporting Reminiscences covering the period 1850-1876, recollecting local events and people he knew. He died on 2nd January 1908 aged 83.

Location

Aberdeen

Keyword

Portraits

Photographer