1916 Portrait of Porto Rican Culture Advocate

This photograph features H.W. Dooley, commonly known as Porto, and was taken in June 1916 by a photographer from the Bain News Service. Dooley played a notable role in promoting Puerto Rican culture and heritage during a time when such representation was vital. The image captures a moment that reflects the interest in and recognition of Puerto Rican identity on the mainland United States in the early 20th century.

The Bain News Service was well-known for documenting key figures and events from that era, and this image is part of their extensive archive. It was produced using a glass negative, a common photographic medium of the time that allowed for detailed imagery. This technique contributed to the preservation of cultural icons like Porto and facilitated the dissemination of their stories through newspapers and other platforms, making them accessible to a broader audience.