Summary

One of 108 images in an album from World War I likely to have been taken by Captain Edward Albert McKenna. The album contains photographs of the 7th Battalion in Egypt.

Image of Mena Camp, one of three training camps in Egypt that were used by the A.I.F. and the N.Z.E.F.

This image is almost identical to MM 050635 in McKenna's other photo album ST 40220. MM 050635 was taken from the Pyramids, looking back at Mena Camp, it seems likely this photo was taken from a similar (if no the same) vantage point.

The album relates to the service of Captain Edward Albert McKenna. McKenna, born in Castlemaine, Victoria, was a 36-year-old department manager of soft goods when he enlisted on 17 August 1914. He lived at 5 St James Buildings, William Street, Melbourne, and had been married to Elizabeth ('Lillie') Mary McKenna since 1910. He embarked from Melbourne 19 October 1914 on the HMAT Hororata, and served in the 7th Battalion Australian Infantry.

He was killed in action in Gallipoli around 25-30 April 1915, aged 37. His kit bag was unusually full, even containing seven shirts, a pillow, six towels, a travelling rug, gumboots, and pyjamas and slippers. Also amongst his possessions was a camera, although no photographic prints or albums.

He was buried at 7 Lone Pine Cemetery, Gallipoli. His details appear on the honours roll on the web page of the Australian War Memorial.

Description of Content

Photograph of an army camp in desert surrounds taken from an elavated position.

Physical Description

Black and white photographic print on paper with a white border. Loose at the back of the album.

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