Progressive Mayor John Purroy Mitchel in Portrait

This historical photograph features John Purroy Mitchel, who served as the 96th Mayor of New York City from 1914 to 1917. A progressive reformer and a member of the Democratic Party, Mitchel focused on modernizing the citys governance, improving public services, and tackling corruption. His administration aimed to address the issues of urbanization and the rapid changes that New York was experiencing during the early 20th century, a time that witnessed significant immigration and industrial growth.

Taken by a photographer from the Bain News Service, this image captures a pivotal figure in New Yorks political history. Mitchel was known for his youthful vigor and forward-thinking policies. Unfortunately, his term was cut short by political challenges and his defeat in 1917. Nonetheless, this photograph stands as a reminder of Mitchels aspirations for the city and the complexities of urban politics during a transformative era in American history.