Empowered Elegance: 1917 Portrait of Mrs. Stettinius

This photograph features Mrs. E.R. Stettinius, taken in 1917 by the Bain News Service. At a time when womens roles in society were evolving, Mrs. Stettinius is captured in a moment that reflects her status during the Progressive Era. The early 20th century saw women beginning to push for suffrage and greater participation in public life, themes that ran parallel to the personal stories of influential women like her.

Glass negative photography, popular in this period, allowed for sharp, detailed images that effectively documented significant figures and events. This specific image, similar to one published in The Sunday Oregonian, showcases the technical and artistic advances in photography. It serves as a historical record, reflecting both the individual and the broader societal changes of the era. Understanding such images helps us appreciate the rich tapestry of history that shapes our present.