HMCS Niobe, Andrew Boyd Handley
Family tradition in the family is that Andrew Boyd Handley lied about his age and joined the Canadian Navy at age 15. The 1911 census shows him as a crew member of HMCS Rainbow, officially age 16, with his trade being "Boy". It isn't known when he transferred to HMCS Niobe. Another family photo exists, taken at the same time, with an HMCS Niobe life ring visible in the photo.
In any case, his naval career only lasted 2-1/2 years. On January 25, 1915, he enlisted in the Canadian Overseas Expeditionary Force.
Andrew Boyd Handley of HMCS Niobe. Date unknown.
Many thanks to Andrew's grand-daughter, Bonnie Unke, for the scan of this photo.
Can you provide details or corrections?
Please email Charlie Dobie.