Early 20th Century Portrait of a Notable Figure

This historical photograph features R.B. Howell, a significant figure from the early 20th century. Captured between 1910 and 1915 by a Bain News Service photographer, this image highlights Howell during a period of notable change in American society and politics. Howell was known for his contributions to various organizations and possibly had a role in shaping local policies or initiatives of his time.

The technical format of this image, a glass negative, reflects the early methods of photojournalism that were prevalent during this era. The Bain News Service was one of the first to document everyday life and influential people through photography, making contributions to news reporting and historical records. During this time, the country was experiencing rapid industrial growth, urbanization, and the early stirrings of social reform movements, capturing the essence of an evolving America.

The preservation of this glass negative is a testament to the historical documentation efforts that allow us to look back and learn about influential individuals like R.B. Howell. This photograph serves not just as an image of a person but as a window into the early 20th century, inviting us to explore the lives and events that shaped modern America.