Portrait of Lord Strathcona: Canadian Icon (1910s)

This historical photograph features Lord Strathcona, also known as Donald Alexander Smith, who played a significant role in Canadian history during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in 1820 in Scotland, he emigrated to Canada, where he became a prominent businessman and politician. Strathcona was instrumental in the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, which connected eastern and western Canada, facilitating trade and travel across the country. His efforts helped shape the nation’s development, making him an essential figure in the story of Canadian expansion.

Captured by the Bain News Service between 1910 and 1915, this image offers a glimpse into the life of one of Canada’s most influential leaders during that era. The glass negative reflects the early 20th-century photographic techniques that were emerging at the time, marking a period of technological advancement in news photography. Strathconas legacy as a philanthropist and his contributions to education and health care continue to resonate in Canada today. This photograph not only commemorates a key historical figure but also highlights the importance of visual documentation in understanding our past.