Timeless Tribute: Civic Virtue Monument in NYC

This photograph captures the Civic Virtue monument, created between 1920 and 1925 and located in New York City. Designed by sculptor Frederick MacMonnies, the statue symbolizes the ideals of civic duty and responsibility. Civic Virtue stands tall, depicted as a heroic figure, embodying the virtues expected of citizens in a democratic society. Originally commissioned to honor the bonds of family and community, the monument reflects the early 20th-century American ethos focused on social responsibility.

Taken by Bain News Service, this image is a striking example of early 20th-century photography using glass negatives. During this era, glass plate photography was a prevalent technique that allowed for exceptional detail and clarity, helping to document public monuments and cultural landmarks. This photograph helps capture a moment in time when civic values were heavily influential in shaping the American identity. By studying these images, we get a glimpse into the priorities and ideals that were significant in the United States during the 1920s.