Elegant Senator in Top Hat: A Classic Moment

This historical photograph features Senator Jesse H. Wetmore, a notable politician from Rhode Island, captured in a moment of poise while holding a cane and wearing a distinguished coat and top hat. Wetmore served in the U.S. Senate from 1913 to 1915 and was involved in significant legislative matters during a transformative period in American history. The setting suggests a formal occasion, typical of the early 20th century when personal style and decorum were vital in political circles.

Flanking Senator Wetmore are two unidentified men, seated and likely engaged in conversation or awaiting their turn in the spotlight. The attire of the period reflects the social norms of the era, showcasing the importance placed on formal dress in political and public life. As a glass negative, this image captures fine details that not only present a visual record but also serve as a window into the customs and practices of a bygone time in American politics. The photograph stands as a reminder of the individuals who influenced policy and societal change during the early 1900s.