Empowered Trio: 1917 Women in Historical Elegance

This photograph captures three women—Mrs. Lydig Hoyt, Mrs. G.F. Baker Jr., and Mrs. J.B. Eustis—on April 19, 1917. Taken by the Bain News Service, the image reflects a period when women were increasingly stepping into the public eye, particularly as the United States entered World War I. The timing of the photo coincides with a significant shift in womens roles, as many began participating in war-related volunteer efforts and social work.

The glass negative format represents an early advancement in photography, allowing for detailed images that were often used in newspapers to inform the public. While the setting and background details remain unknown, the faces of these women symbolize a changing era in American society, highlighting the contributions of women during a pivotal moment in history.