R. Bartholdt at the U.S. Capitol, Washington D.C., 1919

This historical photograph from 1919 captures R. Bartholdt, a prominent congressional figure from Missouri, standing near the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Bartholdt served as a member of the House of Representatives from 1909 to 1921, during a pivotal time in U.S. history. His tenure coincided with significant events, including the aftermath of World War I and the unfolding of progressive reforms that sought to address a rapidly changing society.

The Capitol, a symbol of American democracy and governance, serves as a fitting backdrop for this image. At this time, Congress was contemplating major legislation to address issues like veterans’ benefits and women’s suffrage, underscoring the transformative era of the 1910s. Bartholdt himself was an advocate for various initiatives, including improvements to infrastructure and veteran affairs, impacting lives across the nation. This photograph not only documents the presence of a notable legislator but also encapsulates a moment when the United States was navigating the complexities of modern governance and societal change.