1916 Gathering: A.S. Meeker & Friends in History

This photograph from August 1916 features four individuals: A.S. Meeker, Harold Hass, Malcom Knox, and Mrs. Meeker. Taken during a time of significant change in America, the image captures a moment in history when the country was on the brink of entering World War I. The early 20th century marked a period of rapid industrialization and urbanization, and photography played a key role in documenting the lives of everyday citizens as well as pivotal events.

The glass negative format used in this photo was a common technology of the era, allowing for high-quality images that were relatively easy to produce. This method was an important step in the evolution of photography, shifting from earlier, more cumbersome techniques to more accessible formats that would later lead to the modern photographic processes we know today. Each subject in the photo, including the Meekers and Knox, reflects the personal stories of that generation, representing an intriguing intersection of individual lives during a transformative time in American history.

Without additional context regarding the location or specific activities captured in the image, we can still appreciate the significance of this photograph as a snapshot of a moment in time. It’s a reminder of how photography serves as a vital historical record, preserving the faces and lives of those who lived through critical events.