Portrait of a Young Innovator, 1915-1920

This image features Reed Miller, taken between approximately 1915 and 1920 during a period marked by significant social and economic change in the United States. Reed Miller was known primarily for his involvement in various industrial pursuits, which were crucial to the nations advancement during the early 20th century. The decade brought about developments in manufacturing, transportation, and a burgeoning labor movement, all set against the backdrop of World War I’s impact on American society.

Photography at this time was transitioning from a craft to a more accessible medium, with services like the Bain News Service documenting contemporary figures and events. This particular photograph is classified as a glass negative, a common format used in early photography that allows for high-quality reproduction. Such images provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of early 20th-century America, showcasing its people, challenges, and the transformative years leading up to the Roaring Twenties.