Wow! Thanks everyone for the flood of replies! I can confirm that this query did originate from that Kent History Forum. Confirmation of that image from there as a DH9a is appreciated as it does indeed change the year for that photo!
The posted aviation article here is enlightening as it shows the aircraft model-making background R.F.Wells had.
I'm now curious as to whether that Wells REO biplane sucessfully flew. Also whether it was a unique design or a licensed copy of something else? (He did apply to licence build Benoist floatplanes).
I will try those other avenues suggested. Thank you.