1916 Portrait of a Influential Political Figure

This photograph features C.F. Murphy, taken in June 1916 by a photographer from the Bain News Service. Murphy was a prominent figure during this era, making significant contributions to both politics and business. The image captures him at a time when the country was on the brink of monumental changes, including its entry into World War I. The clarity of the glass negative format used in this photograph exemplifies the early 20th-century techniques that defined documentary photography.

The Bain News Service was instrumental in documenting key events and figures of the time. Founded by George Grantham Bain, the service played a vital role in providing visual records to newspapers across the United States. This photograph not only serves as a testament to Murphy’s influence but also highlights the historical context of an America grappling with its identity and the challenges of a rapidly changing world. The preservation of this image helps future generations understand the dynamics of this pivotal time in American history.