Laird Allan: Historical Photograph Restored

Photography was just coming into use with the creation of the Force back in 1873.

Since that time, Force members have been photographed in different locations and situations.

Photographs on paper are items that don’t wear well with time.  So many photographs have been discarded and the notable images of past members have been lost.

With the introduction of digital photography and software editing, many of these old and damaged photographs can be restored to be appreciated by current and future generations.

Veteran Laird is an professional photographer who is also a keen history buff on the Force.

Recently, Laird commenced work on an old photograph which had been taken in 1897 of four North West Mounted Police (NWMP) members.  These NWMP members were a part of a contingent who attended the Queen Victoria’s Jubilee Celebration in London England.

The original photograph is illustrated below.

1897 – Four members of the North West Mounted Police who attended the Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in London England (Source of photo – Laird Allan)

With his skills in Photoshop, Laird was able to replace the members foot on the left along with fixing the separated rifle and created a new background.

The net result is the image below.

Repaired with Photoshop software – 1897 – Four members of the North West Mounted Police who attended the Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in London England (Source of photo – Laird Allan)

From a historical perspective, the 1897 Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee celebration was an important milestone for the Force.  It was the first time that the Force was be highlighted outside Canada.  To ensure the best image was presented, the North West Mounted Police was given permission, by the Canadian government, for a new uniform which included the western stetson hat.  Commissioner selected the most handsome members to represent the Force.

It was the British media in 1897 that coined the term of “Mounties” whereas members of that time preferred  the name of  “Riders Of The Plain.”

Laird has done an excellent job as usual.  Check out Laird’s website here.