Historic Portrait of Early 20th Century Literary Icon

This photograph showcases Saml Merwin, a notable figure in early 20th-century American literature and journalism. Taken between 1910 and 1915, it captures a moment in the life of Merwin, who was known for his contributions to magazines and plays of the time. He was instrumental in shaping the literary landscape during an era when print media was evolving rapidly, thanks in part to advances in photography and communication.

The image itself, produced by the Bain News Service, reflects a period when photographic documentation of public figures was gaining traction. The Bain News Service was prominent for providing images to newspapers, allowing for a wider dissemination of visual news. By capturing Merwin in this moment, the photograph contributes to our understanding of his role in journalism and the arts during a dynamic time in American history.