Historic 1917 Glass Negative of Hamilton Scene

This glass negative, titled Henry Dew. Hamilton, was created in August 1917 by the Bain News Service, a notable photography firm that captured key moments in American life during the early 20th century. The time period was significant, as the United States was on the brink of entering World War I, with public sentiment shifting toward support for the Allies. The image captures a certain snapshot of American culture and the experiences of individuals at a time when many were preparing for the impacts of global conflict.

Henry Dew, the subject of this photograph, represents a face of everyday American life in Hamilton, a city in southwestern Ohio. During this era, Hamilton was evolving industrially and socially, contributing to the country’s manufacturing output while also navigating the changes brought on by the war. The Bain News Services work not only provides visual documentation but also reflects the broader narrative of American society dealing with rapid change, from industrial growth to wartime mobilization. The use of glass negatives allowed for clear, detailed images, making these historical records invaluable for studying the era.