1920 Street Scene: Daily Life in a Changing America

The photograph titled Coates, taken in 1920 by the Bain News Service, captures a slice of daily life during an era of significant change in America. Although we lack specific details about its subjects or location, this image reflects the aesthetic and social dynamics of its time. The early 20th century was a transformational period marked by the rise of urbanization and the impact of the First World War on American society.

Glass plate negatives like this one were revolutionary in the way they allowed for clearer images and better detail, reflecting the technological advancements in photography, which played a vital role in journalism and documentation. As part of the George Grantham Bain Collection, this photograph adds to our understanding of the historical narrative woven through news media at the time, giving modern audiences a glimpse into life over a century ago.