William Abernethy was born  to Robert and Agnes Abernethy in Comber, County  Down. 

He learned his trade with a Belfast photographer and set up a business in High Street, Belfast, in 1886. For many years he was successful as a portrait photographer and opened branches in Bangor and Newry, County Down. With the advent of polyfoto in Belfast his business declined. 

He married Elizabeth McClurg on 25th August 1886 in St Stephen's Church of Ireland, Belfast. He died aged 66 at his home, 24 Seacliffe Road. Bangor.

Born:	12 March 1865
Died:	c.1930