European Family Life In Bangalore Cantonment, 1890 Photo

An 1890 vintage photograph of European family life in Bangalore Cantonment. It shows a British military officer seated at his colonial bungalow, accompanied by his wife and an Indian servant. A traditional horse-drawn carriage is seen waiting in the driveway, adding to the charm of this rare historical glimpse.

The expansive compound and stately home suggest that the officer was of considerable rank, reflecting the lifestyle of the colonial elite in Bangalore Cantonment during the British Raj. A select group of British officers stationed in India had the privilege of bringing their families from England.

These officers were provided with residential accommodation and essential perks during their stay in cantonments, similar to the one depicted in the photo. It is important to note that until 1858, the East India Company functioned as the de facto ruler of India. However, following the Indian Rebellion of 1857, power shifted, and the British Crown officially took direct control of India, marking a significant change in the country’s colonial history.

Once the Suez Canal opened in 1869, travel routes to India and the Far East became much shorter, saving both time and money. This new accessibility encouraged many European women to travel to India in search of eligible British husbands. Over time, it became an annual social trend for British ladies to arrive in India looking for suitable matches. The most sought-after prospects were men from the British military, the Indian Civil Service, and clerical posts. Click photo to enlarge.