1917: Portrait of a Nation on Wars Edge

This photograph, produced by the Bain News Service, features Wm. Phillips on May 1, 1917. The glass negative likely dates from a time when the United States was on the brink of entering World War I. Phillips, a prominent figure of his day, is captured in a moment that reflects the spirit of a nation gearing up for a significant global conflict. His presence in the photograph connects us to a time of transformation, as America faced challenges both at home and abroad.

The Bain News Service was well-known for chronicling events and personalities during the early 20th century. This photograph of Phillips is a snapshot that gives us insight into the eras culture and society, where public figures were increasingly under the spotlight. The double dating seen on the negative—1917 and later 1924—suggests that this image had enduring relevance, perhaps serving as a valuable record during the publication of related stories or retrospectives on the war.

Overall, this piece not only immortalizes Wm. Phillips but also serves as a historical artifact that illustrates the social climate of early 20th-century America. It’s an essential reminder of how photography was employed to document pivotal moments and figures that shaped a nation.