Historic Family Portrait of a New York Politician

This photograph features D.F. Cohalan and his family, captured by a Bain News Service photographer. D.F. Cohalan, notable for his work as a prominent New York politician, served as a member of the House of Representatives in the 1910s and was actively involved in the Irish nationalist movement during his career. This image serves as a rare visual record of the family life of a significant figure in American political history.

The glass negative used for this portrait reflects early 20th-century photographic techniques, marking a time when glass plates were commonly employed to produce detailed photographs. Capturing personal moments like this one provides a glimpse into the lives of influential individuals beyond their public personas. Photographs of this nature can help us understand the social context of the era, illustrating family dynamics and lifestyle during a period of change in the United States.