Five Graceful Friends: Early 1910s Portrait

This photograph, taken between 1910 and 1915, features five young women: Pauline Bacon, Helen Alexander, Irene Gibson, Sybil Appleton, and Mary Cameron. Captured on a glass negative, this image is a snapshot of everyday life during the early years of the 20th century. The period marked a time of significant social change, particularly for women who were beginning to assert their rights and roles in society. The womens fashion in the photograph reflects the styles of the era, showcasing the shift towards more practical clothing as womens participation in public life increased.

The image provides a glimpse into the lives of these individuals, who may have been part of the growing wave of young women seeking education and employment opportunities. It also exemplifies the work of the Bain News Service, which documented a wide range of subjects during this transformative period in history. Through photographs like this, we see not just the faces but also the changing social landscape of early 20th-century America.