Columbia University Graduates: Class of 1915 Gathering

This photograph captures the Columbia University Class of 1915, a group of students poised on the brink of their futures, likely taken between 1915 and 1920. The image was produced by the Bain News Service, a notable photography company of the time known for documenting significant events and everyday life. This period marked a time of profound social change in the United States, as the nation was evolving in its response to the intricacies of modern life, including World War I and the burgeoning movements for social equality.

Columbia University, located in New York City, has a long-standing history of academic excellence, and the Class of 1915 is part of this esteemed legacy. This cohort would go on to contribute to diverse fields, from science and literature to politics and the arts, embodying the ideals of education and intellectual pursuit that the university espouses. The creation of glass negatives like this one demonstrates the early 20th-century techniques that allowed for clear, detailed images—a pivotal development in the history of photography that paved the way for modern practices.

By examining this photograph, we gain a glimpse into the lives of young men and women during this transformative era. The visual documentation offers a unique perspective on their experiences, the campus environment, and the cultural climate of the time. In addition to serving as a historical record, it helps us appreciate the evolution of higher education and the important milestones achieved by students at Columbia University.