1900s American Politics: Portrait of Postmaster General

This photograph features Mr. Harry C. New, a significant figure in early 20th-century American politics. Serving as the Postmaster General under President William Howard Taft from 1909 to 1913, New played a crucial role in advancing postal reforms during a transformative period in the United States. His tenure witnessed improvements in mail delivery efficiency and the expansion of rural free delivery, which aimed to ensure that even the most remote communities received mail service.

Captured by the Bain News Service, this image reflects not just News importance, but also the eras focus on public figures. The early 1900s was a time of great change, marked by urbanization, industrial growth, and the emergence of modern communication systems. As Postmaster General, New was at the forefront of these changes, influencing how Americans interacted with one another through the postal service.

While theres no specific date noted for this photo, it stands as a testament to a period when the role of government officials became more scrutinized and celebrated in the public eye. News image captures a moment in time when postal services were evolving, and his contributions were pivotal in shaping the future of communication in America.