1910s Columbia University Opera Encounter

This fascinating photograph captures an opera event at Columbia University, likely taken between 1915 and 1920. The image reflects a period when the arts were gaining prominence in higher education, illustrating how universities began to embrace cultural events as part of their educational offerings. Columbia, founded in 1754, has a long history of fostering a vibrant intellectual and artistic community, and this event showcases its commitment to the performing arts.

Captured by the Bain News Service, this photograph is a historical record of both the event and the era. The early 20th century marked a significant cultural shift in the United States, as opera and other art forms became more accessible to the public through university programs and audience engagement. This image provides a glimpse into the lives of those attending the opera, reflecting the fashion and social norms of the time, and highlights the role of educational institutions in promoting the arts.