1904 St. Louis: Industrial Pioneers Leavitt & Strauss

This historical photograph captures J.C. Leavitt and J.C. Strauss in St. Louis, Missouri, dating back to 1904. During this period, St. Louis was a bustling hub of industry and transportation, particularly highlighted by the 1904 Worlds Fair, which celebrated the Louisiana Purchases centennial. The fair brought global attention to the city, showcasing innovations and cultural displays from around the world. Leavitt and Strauss, likely involved in business or civic endeavors of the time, reflect the entrepreneurial spirit that characterized the early 20th century in America.

The photograph was produced by the Bain News Service, a significant player in early photojournalism, known for documenting important public figures and events. The use of glass negatives in photography during this era allowed for remarkable detail and clarity, providing a window into the past. The image not only serves as a visual record of its subjects but also encapsulates a moment in time when St. Louis was emerging as a center for commerce and innovation, contributing to the broader narrative of American growth and development in the early 1900s.