Early 1910s Portrait of a Distinguished Professional

This photograph features H. M. Waite, an individual captured in a moment between 1910 and 1915. Waite is likely emblematic of the professional classes emerging during this period in American history, a time when the country was experiencing significant social and economic changes. The early 20th century was marked by industrial growth, urbanization, and a shift in the workforce, with more people moving into cities for various job opportunities.

The image itself is part of a collection that illustrates the lives and faces of Americans during this transformative era. Documenting a wide range of individuals and events, the photographs from this period provide a glimpse into the daily lives, fashion, and social norms of the time. Waites image stands as a record of an individual whose life may have intersected with the broader currents of history, reflecting the shifts in society as the nation approached the tumultuous years of the First World War. By observing such photographs, we gain insights into the personal stories that contribute to our understanding of this dynamic historical period.