A large collection of historic photographs hidden away in a suitcase for 90 years has been found. 

The photographs were taken by journalist-turned-ventriloquist, Thomas Frederic Parnell (later known as Frederick Russel). The suitcase was discovered by the children of their late grandmother in a house in NSW last year. 

Through the lens of Fred Russel, we can take a step back in time. The photographs that have never been seen before depict a range of events from significant sporting moments, royals on tour and the Belfast War. The collection of 360 photographs were taken from the late 1800’s to the early 1900’s and feature incredible moments of history.

The collection will be auctioneered at Lloyds Auctions this week across four auction dates.



“These are extremely rare moments in time that have never been seen until now and Lloyds Auctions are proud to bring them to the public, via auction for them to be treasured by the next custodians for years to come” said Lee Hames, Chief Operations Officer for Lloyds Auctions.

“We hope that museums or libraries will capture these important photos of history, to document and preserve for future generations to come.”

The collection goes under the hammer in four parts from Tuesday 16 January to 27 January.