1921 Portrait of Ethel Frank: A Glimpse into the Past

This photograph from September 1921, created by the Bain News Service, features Ethel Frank, a notable figure of her time. Ethels identity and background offer a glimpse into the societal context of early 20th-century America, a period marked by significant change and development in women’s roles. The Bain News Service was known for documenting prominent personalities and events, which positioned their subjects in the public eye during an era transitioning toward greater equality and visibility for women.

Ethel Franks portrayal in this glass negative captures not just her likeness but also reflects the evolving landscape of media and photography in the 1920s. The technology of the time allowed for sharper, clearer images, helping to elevate news reporting and public interest in photography. As part of the George Grantham Bain Collection, this image contributes to our understanding of how photography was used to tell stories and disseminate information in a rapidly changing world.