Timeless Portrait of Mrs. C.B. Dillingham (1915-1920)

This photograph features Mrs. C.B. Dillingham, known as Madeleine Cochrane, captured by the Bain News Service between 1915 and 1920. Mrs. Dillingham was a prominent figure in early 20th-century American society, often involved in various social and charitable activities. The image, a glass negative, showcases not just the subject but the detailed craftsmanship of the time’s photographic techniques. Glass negatives were a common medium for capturing images during this era and allowed for high-quality reproductions.

At the time this photograph was taken, America was in the midst of significant social change, including women’s suffrage movements and the emergence of modern feminism. Mrs. Dillinghams involvement in these sorts of issues was characteristic of many women of her standing, who began to take on more active roles in civic life. The Bain News Service was known for its extensive documentation of notable figures and events, helping to shape and record the public perceptions of personalities like Mrs. Dillingham. This photograph serves as a point of reference for understanding the roles women played in society during this transformative period in U.S. history.