1918 Era Portrait: Friends Amid WWI Turmoil

This historical photograph captures Florence A. Young and Chas. P. Rigo in March 1918, a time when the world was in the throes of World War I. The early 20th century was marked by significant social and cultural changes, and this image reflects the eras focus on both individual achievement and community involvement. Florence A. Young was an influential figure in her community, likely engaged in efforts supporting the war, including fundraising and rallying volunteer efforts. Chas. P. Rigo, accompanying her in the photograph, may have also been involved in similar civic duties.

The photograph is an early example of glass negative technology, which paved the way for advances in photography. Glass negatives were commonly used during this period due to their ability to capture fine details, producing high-quality images that would later be converted into prints. This method was a significant step forward from earlier photographic techniques, allowing for more enduring and clearer representations of everyday life and notable figures from that time. The image stands as a testament to the artistry and innovation in photography during the early 20th century while highlighting the contributions of individuals like Young and Rigo amidst global conflict.