Portrait of M. Cecilia Gaffney: A 1910s Icon

This photograph features M. Cecilia Gaffney, captured by Bain News Service between 1915 and 1920. Gaffney, a notable figure of her time, reflects a period marked by significant social changes, particularly in womens roles. During this era, women were increasingly visible in various sectors, advocating for rights and engaging in public life, especially as the suffrage movement gained momentum leading up to the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920.

The image itself serves as a window into the early 20th century, a time when photography was evolving as a medium for both art and documentation. Bain News Service played a crucial role in chronicling prominent individuals and events, using glass negatives to ensure sharp detail and quality. This method allowed photographers to capture the essence of their subjects, giving us glimpses of past lives and societal shifts. M. Cecilia Gaffneys portrait encapsulates this historical moment, contributing to our understanding of both the individual and the era.