Historic 1913 Hermiston Community Rabbit Drive

The photograph titled Hermiston Rabbit Drive, captured in January 1913 by the Bain News Service, showcases a unique community event in Hermiston, Oregon. The rabbit drive, a local initiative to control the rabbit population, brought together members of the community for a day of hunting. These drives were common in rural America during this period, often seen as a fun and communal way to manage wildlife and provide food for families. This image serves as a visual record of such an event, offering a glimpse into the social and agricultural life of early 20th-century America.

Using glass negative technology, the Bain News Service documented this event with clarity, reflecting the techniques of news photography at the time. By capturing scenes like the Hermiston Rabbit Drive, photographers played a crucial role in chronicling everyday life and community activities. This image not only highlights local engagement but also represents a broader cultural practice of wildlife management and community gathering that was prevalent in rural areas during this era. The fact that its preserved in the George Grantham Bain Collection speaks to the importance of documenting these historical events for future generations.