Major in Uniform: A 1917 World War I Portrait

This glass negative features Maj. F.E. Evans, taken on June 12, 1917, by the Bain News Service. At this time, the United States was deeply involved in World War I, having entered the conflict in April of that year. The photograph captures Evans in a moment that reflects the military style and demeanor of officers during the early 20th century. As a major, he would have held significant responsibilities, likely involving strategy and leadership in the rapidly changing landscape of the war.

The Bain News Service, known for documenting notable figures and events, played an important role in providing visual records of the era. Glass negatives like this one were commonly used in early photography because of their detail and durability. This specific image is a part of a larger collection that gives us insights into the military and social dynamics of the time. Evans’s presence in this photo serves as a reminder of the many individuals who contributed to the broader narrative of American involvement in World War I.