1920s Era Portrait of Notable Author Margaret St. Clair

This photograph features Margaret St. Clair, a prominent figure captured by a Bain News Service photographer between approximately 1915 and 1920. At the time, St. Clair was known for her contributions to early 20th-century literature, particularly in the realm of science fiction. Her works often explored themes of society, gender, and the human experience, making her a pioneering voice in a genre that was gaining traction in America.

The use of glass negatives in this era allowed photographers to produce high-quality images that could be replicated for publication and archival purposes. This technique was widely utilized by photographers like those at the Bain News Service, who aimed to document important figures and events of the time. St. Clair’s image not only captures her likeness but also serves as a snapshot of an evolving literary landscape where women were beginning to carve out their space in genres traditionally dominated by men.