Iconic Portrait of a 20th Century Political Leader

This historical photograph features Davis Elkins, a prominent figure in American politics during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Elkins served as a U.S. Senator from West Virginia from 1911 to 1917. He was known for his advocacy of labor rights and his role in the development of the regions natural resources, particularly coal and timber. His tenure in the Senate came during a transformative period for the nation, marked by significant social and economic changes.

The image, captured through the innovative glass negative technique, demonstrates the early methods of photography that allowed for detailed and durable reproductions. This method was widely used in the late 1800s and early 1900s, offering a glimpse into the lives and appearances of notable individuals like Elkins. As a senator, he was significantly involved in legislation that shaped the future of the state and its place in the national landscape, making this photograph an important record of his legacy.