1916 Portrait of Koustontine Protich: Immigrant Legacy

This glass negative captures Koustontine Protich on January 24, 1916. Protich, likely a Serbian or Eastern European immigrant, reflects the wave of immigration that shaped America during the early 20th century. This period saw millions arriving at Ellis Island, many fleeing conflict and searching for opportunities. Protichs image serves as a snapshot of the diverse faces that contributed to the fabric of American society.

The photograph comes from the archives of the Bain News Service, an influential photo agency known for documenting contemporary events and people. Their work helped shape public perception of various social and political issues. As we look at Protich, we not only see an individual but also a representation of resilience and the immigrant experience in a rapidly changing America. His image exemplifies the rich tapestry of lives that converged during this transformative time in history.