Trying to locate a photo of my great grandfather who fought in WWI

[ARGHtoAHHH]

Hi there,

I have been researching my GGF for the last few months. I have managed to locate one photo of him, it is a group photo (his hurling team) but its very grainy and not a clear photo of him.

I am desperate to find one of him in his uniform.

He was a private in the Royal Munster Fusiliers, 8th Battalion. Would his photo have been taken? Was is compulsory that a photo was taken of him? In other words, is there one in existence?

I have tried numerous historical forums, and even managed to get in touch with people in his town who knew him, I've asked family, but it remains ever illusive.

Can anyone point me in the right direction? I don't really know what I am doing, or where to look. Could there be a photo of him in an archive somewhere? Or even of his battalion?

Its driving me potty not being able to locate it!

Many thanks for reading, and any advice would be taken gratefully

Are you on ancestry? I've turned up a few photos of relatives that way.

Thanks for replying, Prof.

I did the 30 day free trial, and managed to track down 2 relatives on there, but alas, no photo. I didn't actually search for a photo on there and now its too late...unless I can sign up again for another 30 day free trial?!

I'm a member, if you pm the details I'll have a look.

you, prof, are a star.

PM you now

Have you contacted the Royal Munster Fusiliers association? www.rmfa92.org/

The national army museum may be able to help www.nam.ac.uk/

I think the national museum of Ireland may also have some info.

As a wartime battalion there may not be the formal photos of a peacetime battalion, there wasn't any common practice of photographing individuals in most regiments.

Thank you Hampshire, I haven't been in touch with either of them but will do so now. Very helpful.

Hampshire - I have emailed the NAM.

With regards to the RMFA - they will not research for anyone who doesn't have membership. Unfortunately I am living on a shoe string at the moment and can't afford to pay it :(

Hopefully I will get something back from NAM or even Prof!

Sent you a message, have had a look but sadly, couldn't find anything.

Have you seen this facebook group? May be worth posting there.

Gah, not on FB! I can use my mum's account though - thank you