“Early 20th Century U.S. Military Maritime Leader”

This photograph features Capt. C.C. Wyllie, an individual prominent in the early military and maritime scene of the United States. Taken by the Bain News Service between 1915 and 1920, this image serves as a valuable artifact of early 20th-century military history. Capt. Wyllie likely played a role during a period of significant evolution for the U.S. Navy and its operations, as the nation was preparing to enter World War I and redefining its military strategy and capabilities.

Captured on a glass negative, a common photographic technique of the era, this image showcases the clarity and detail that was possible before the widespread adoption of film. Glass plate photography required meticulous preparation and was a popular Medium for professional photographers at the time. This method provides a glimpse into the craftsmanship involved in early photography and highlights the importance placed on accurately documenting individuals of note, such as Captain Wyllie, during a transformative period in American military history.

The Bain News Service was known for its comprehensive coverage of newsworthy figures and events, archiving moments that might otherwise be forgotten. Capt. Wyllies image today sits as a testament to a time when photography was both an art form and a means of preserving history, making it an intriguing subject for those interested in the interplay between military developments and photographic innovation in the early 20th century.