1908 Portrait of a Pioneering American Politician

This photograph captures Augustus van Wyck, a notable figure in early 20th-century American politics. Taken in 1908, the image reflects a period of significant change in the U.S., with van Wyck serving as the 18th mayor of Brooklyn, New York. His tenure lasted from 1904 until 1909 and was marked by efforts to improve infrastructure and public services in the rapidly growing borough. As a prominent member of the Democratic Party, he played a vital role in addressing the needs of a diverse urban population.

The photograph, created using glass negative technology by the Bain News Service, stands as a testament to the era’s commitment to documenting public figures and events. This innovative approach to photography not only provided clearer images but also allowed for a greater distribution of such portraits in newspapers and magazines of the time. By preserving the likeness of leaders like van Wyck, this image contributes to our understanding of local governance and civic leadership during a transformative time in American urban history.