George Rebbeck RN 1847 - 1935

A family History starting with George Rebbeck 1847 to 1935

There is some doubt cast about this picture but we are fairly certain now that it is George in spite of the fact the the uniform he is wearing is that of an officer in the Royal Navy. George retired with the rank of Chief Petty Officer but there is a mention of his being offered a commission. His reason for refusing it was that the increase in salary would be swallowed by mess bills. Perhaps so, but it is also possible he took the commission and then changed his mind, or even lost it through a misdemeanor. We know he had friends in high places as he was capable of "pulling strings". It is reasonable to assume those friends could have pulled strings for him personally.

Certainly, great-grandson Bob Baldwin's comment when shown the picture for the first time said "That's my Great-Grandad but why is he wearing an officers uniform?"

The family has a tailor's bill for a uniform suit, dated 1888. This picture is of a man in his early forties so is this the uniform suit that he bought?

What is not in doubt is that the picture of Helen Eliza is genuine and that picture is the mate to this one. The pair of pictures, in identical frames and mounts were found in 31 Stirling Street when the house was cleared. The picture of their eldest son shows a striking resemblance to his mother but you must decide for yourself.