1914 Portrait of Governor Eben Draper in Office

This photograph features Eben Draper, who served as the Governor of Massachusetts from 1914 to 1915. Taken in 1914 by a photographer from the Bain News Service, this image captures Draper in a moment that reflects his political stature during an era of significant change in the United States. Draper, a businessman turned politician, succeeded David I. Walsh in a time marked by progressive reform and economic challenges. His tenure was focused on labor reforms, paving the way for policies that would benefit workers in the industrial age.

In this glass negative, Draper’s formal attire and poise denote the seriousness with which he approached his responsibilities as governor. The early 20th century was a pivotal period for state governance, as issues surrounding labor rights, womens suffrage, and public education gained momentum. Draper’s administration grappled with these issues, making decisions that would impact the lives of many Massachusetts residents. This image not only serves as a visual record of a specific leader but also as a historical touchpoint during a transformative era in American governance.