Historic Portrait of Illinois Legislator Fred A. Britten

This photograph captures Fred A. Britten, dated between 1910 and 1915, a notable figure of his time. At this point in history, Britten was associated with the Illinois State Legislature, representing a significant chapter in American political history. Known for his involvement in early 20th-century politics, he played a role in legislative decisions that would help shape local governance during a period marked by social and economic change.

The image itself reflects the style of early 20th-century portrait photography, which often emphasized formal attire and composed poses, indicative of the societal norms of that era. Taken by the Bain News Service, a prolific provider of news images, this photograph not only documents Brittens likeness but also contributes to our understanding of the media landscape of the time. The use of glass negatives was common in that period, allowing for high-quality images that could be reproduced for newspapers and other publications, thus keeping the public informed about significant political figures like Britten.

As we look at this photograph, we glimpse a moment of history when civic engagement and political representation were evolving. Brittens role in the Illinois legislature during this dynamic time underscores the importance of local governance as foundational to the democratic process.