Elegant Portrait of Mrs. N. OShaughnessy, 1915-1920

This historical photograph features Mrs. N. OShaughnessy, taken between 1915 and 1920. At that time, she likely lived in the United States, a period marked by significant changes both socially and politically. The early 20th century was an era when womens roles were evolving, highlighted by the suffrage movement gaining momentum. The 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, would be ratified in 1920, reflecting the growing recognition of womens contributions to society.

The photograph comes from the George Grantham Bain Collection, which includes works produced by the Bain News Service, a notable early photography operation. This collection sheds light on daily life and important events of the era through candid shots and posed portraits. The use of glass negatives, which were common at the time, allowed for sharp detail and clarity in the images, making them powerful historical artifacts. As you look at Mrs. OShaughnessy, consider the world she inhabited: a time of change, where women were beginning to assert their rights and identities in public life, paving the way for future generations.

Examining Mrs. OShaughnessys photograph gives us a glimpse into the daily life and societal context of early 20th-century America. It invites the viewer to reflect on how far women have come and the struggles they faced to achieve equality. Each detail captured in the image serves as a window into the past, preserving moments that shaped the fabric of modern society.