Photo Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Photocopy |
Collection |
Oil Museum of Canada Collection |
Catalog Number |
OMC FD.002.005.011.p |
Description |
Sepia-toned postcard with a photograph of International Driller, William McRae sitting on top of a downed elephant in a clearing of a jungle in Sumatra. He is wearing a white muslin suit and hat. Five people are posing behind the elephant. The photo was taken between 1887 and 1912. Addressed to: Mr. R.H. Latham, 146 Winchester St. Toronto, Ont. Message: "Ross sends his best regards. Dear Grandpa. what do you think of this picture. How are they all treating you? Hope you are getting the best of care. Lovingly Mabel. Postmarked from Petrolia February 9, 1915. One cent green stamp. Published for J.A. Lowery, Petrolia, Ont. by the International Stationery Co. No. 219. |
Provenance |
International Driller, William McRae spent many years with the Royal Dutch Petroleum Company in Borneo and Sumatra. He was born in Beauharnais, Quebec on February 15, 1867 and moved to Petrolia as a small boy, after the death of his father. He lived with his uncle, William H. Hammond, a prominent oil producer and refiner, and learned the trade of drilling oil at which, according to his obituary, he excelled. William McRae was among the first of the International Drillers to leave Petrolia and spent 25 years of his life abroad in Borneo, Java, and Sumatra. McRae acquired hunting skills from his uncle and became a renowned hunter himself. Many photos had been taken of McRae and his hunting trophies, one of which was an elephant. During his last trip, he was sent home because he was suffering from malaria. McRae did return to work, but eventually had to retire due to his health. He died from the ravages of gangrene and is now buried in Hillsdale Cemetery in Petrolia. |
Print Size |
26.7cm x 17.9cm |
Search Terms |
Elephant Hunting International Driller Sumatra White Muslin Suit |
People |
McRae, William |
Place |
Sumatra |