1915 Portrait of a Civic Leader in Business

This historical photograph features F.H. Goff, a prominent figure captured by a Bain News Service photographer in 1915. Goff was known for his role in various business and civic endeavors, contributing to the economic and social fabric of his community during the early 20th century. The image likely reflects a time of significant change in American society, as the country was on the cusp of entering World War I and undergoing rapid industrialization.

Taken as a glass negative, the photograph offers a glimpse into the relatively new medium of photography at the time. Glass negatives were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for capturing high-quality images. This technique allowed for sharp detail and clarity, which has enabled historians and enthusiasts to appreciate the nuances of attire, expression, and context of people like Goff in that era. The image serves as a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in American history, illustrating the lives of those who shaped their communities in a time of progress and turmoil.