Historic 1913 Portrait of Wisconsin Governor Schmedeman

This historical photograph features Albert G. Schmedeman, who was a prominent figure in early 20th-century American politics. He served as the 22nd Governor of Wisconsin from 1921 to 1927. Schmedeman was a member of the Democratic Party, and his administration focused on various progressive reforms, including educational advancements and labor rights. His tenure coincided with a time when many states were grappling with the challenges of post-World War I society, making his leadership particularly relevant in this transitional period.

The image, published by the Bain News Service on June 21, 1913, captures Schmedeman’s likeness several years before he entered the governors office. The Bain News Service was known for documenting notable public figures of the era and contributed significantly to the visual history of American politics. The date on the negative, September 5, 1928, likely reflects when the glass negative was processed or cataloged, shining a light on the archival practices of the time.

Schmedemans governance included responses to the evolving political landscape and economic changes of the 1920s. This photograph not only serves as a visual representation of Schmedeman himself but also as a window into the trends and priorities of American governance during that dynamic decade.