Sydney Charles Albert LUCAS ⁷⁸⁶

  Events

• Claire tells the story of when young Sydney was courting young Gladys, who of course, lived with her parents and brother and sister at their house, 57 Aherne Street.

When Syd would return home with young Glad, if they were in earlier than Gertrude and her gentleman, they would sit on the front steps of the house, and quietly enjoy each other's company for a few more moments.

Gladys' young brother Rees was a spirited young lad, and he would hide under the steps, waiting for whichever couple got home first. When the couple was comfortably settled, Rees would reach up and grab one leg of each person through the stair treads, causing much mayhem.

Syd, being an Englishman of some nervous disposition, would splutter and cause himself much distress at this surprise.

• Syd and Gladys had an elegant portrait taken on the occasion of their wedding.

Standing is Murdoch McLean, Syd's father in law, and Charles Smallwood, Syd's brother-in-law.

Seated is an unknown lady, Syd and Gladys, and Gertrude McLean, Syd's sister-in-law.

This photograph has the mark of "Federal, Townsville" photographers on its reverse.

• Sydney is seen seated in the park, with his mother-in-law's father's deceased-wife's sister, lovingly known as Aunt Ju.

(Sydney's wife Glady's mother, Gertrude's mother, Emily's deceased mother Clara's sister, who married Thomas Orton, and was killed in 1881).

• Sydney was injured in the Middle East. He lost his right leg.

• Sydney is seen here, perhaps practicing his putting?

• Sydney is seen here, dressed in a suit and a distinguished tie. Perhaps he is going to the races? Or to an afternoon sporting event?

• Sydney and Aunt Ju are seen here, taking in the fresh air and sunshine, in about 1927, we think.

Sydney married Gladys Clare McLEAN, daughter of Murdoch McLEAN and Emily Frances ORTON. (Gladys Clare McLEAN was born on 15 Nov 1900 in Queensland Country ¹⁴⁰ and died on an unknown date.)