1910s Women’s Gathering: Five Friends in Profile

This photograph, taken by the Bain News Service between 1915 and 1920, showcases five women: Mrs. May Deloney, Mrs. Rose Crabtree, Grace G. Miller, Faustina Haight, and Genevieve Van Vleck. These women represent a time when society was undergoing significant changes, especially in regard to womens roles. The early 20th century was marked by movements advocating for womens rights, including the suffrage movement, which culminated in the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote in the United States.

Captured using a glass negative, this image takes us into the lives of these individuals who likely contributed to their communities in various ways. The setting and attire often reflect the social conventions of the time, providing a glimpse into the fashion and standards of decorum that shaped everyday life. While we don’t have context on their specific activities, they emerged from a period of increased visibility for women in public life, education, and the workforce.

As part of an extensive photographic record, this image serves as a crucial document that helps preserve the narratives of everyday Americans, particularly women who played important roles in their families and communities. This snapshot not only shows their personalities but also encapsulates a pivotal era in history, reminding us of the progress made and the stories that continue to shape our society today.