Early 20th Century Florida Congressman Portrait

This photograph features Frank Clark, a notable figure in American politics during the early 20th century. At the time, Clark served as a U.S. Congressman from Florida, representing the state during a crucial period marked by significant social and economic change. Born in 1860, Clark was a member of the Democratic Party and played a key role in various legislative initiatives while in office. His tenure began in 1917 and lasted until 1923, during which he was involved in issues like veterans affairs and the post-World War I recovery.

The image itself is part of the Bain News Services efforts to document important newsworthy figures of the time. Glass negatives, like this one, were a popular medium for capturing images in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This technique allowed for high-quality reproductions of photographs that could be used in newspapers and other publications, ensuring that images of influential individuals like Clark could reach a wider audience. The Bain Collection serves as a historical record, preserving moments and personalities that shaped public discourse in America during this transformative era.