Suffragist Mrs. O.H.P. Belmont Advocating for Change

The photograph features Mrs. O.H.P. Belmont, a prominent figure in the early 20th-century suffrage movement. Born in 1855, she was a socialite and a vocal advocate for womens rights, using her wealth and influence to support the cause. Belmont was not only involved in suffrage but also championed various social issues, including labor rights and education reform. Her activism played a significant role in the fight for womens suffrage in the United States, which culminated in the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920.

Taken by a photographer from the Bain News Service, this image captures Belmont at a pivotal time when the suffrage movement was gaining momentum. The glass negative format was common during that era, allowing for high-quality reproduction of images. Belmont’s contributions, alongside her contemporaries, highlighted the relentless efforts women made to secure their rights. As we look at this photograph, we recognize not just her individual impact but also the collective struggle of countless women who stood up for equality and justice.