Historic Portrait of 1916 Senator Reed of Missouri

This photograph features Senator Reed of Missouri, taken by a Bain News Service photographer in June 1916. By this time, Reed was a prominent figure in American politics, having served as a U.S. Senator since 1911. Reed was known for his progressive stance on various issues, including labor rights and womens suffrage. His contributions to the political landscape during the early 20th century were significant, marking a time of considerable reform and change in the nation.

Captured on a glass negative, this image provides a glimpse into the era’s political atmosphere. The rich detail that glass plates offered was pivotal for documenting figures who shaped the nations history. The early 1900s in the U.S. were marked by growing movements advocating for civil rights and economic reform, and Reed was a key player in those discussions. Through this photograph, we can explore a moment in time when political ideologies were evolving, and leaders like Senator Reed were at the forefront of these changes.