Historic Portrait of Early 20th-Century Businessman

This photograph, taken on March 2, 1914, captures Henry E. Roethe, a prominent figure in early 20th-century America. As a businessman and public figure, Roethes contributions were notable in the evolution of New Yorks industrial landscape during a time of rapid growth and innovation. The photograph, produced by the Bain News Service, reflects the eras fascination with prominent individuals in business and politics, showcasing a man whose presence was significant in shaping the economic framework of the time.

Glass negatives, like the one used to create this image, were common in early photography due to their ability to produce high-quality prints. The Bain News Service was known for its documentation of key figures and events, contributing to a visual history that helps us understand the social and industrial trends of the early 1900s. Roethe, representing a business sector in transition, is emblematic of an age when America was moving from its agrarian roots toward a more urban, industrial society, paving the way for the modern economy we recognize today. Through this image, we gain a snapshot of a pivotal figure in a transformative period of American history.