Vintage 1910s Archery Meet: American Sports History

This photograph captures an archery meet from the early 1910s, showcasing the sports growing popularity in the United States. Taken between 1915 and 1920 by the Bain News Service, the image depicts a gathering of archers, likely engaging in competition. This era marked a resurgence of interest in archery, partly influenced by movements advocating for outdoor activities and fitness for both men and women.

The meet was published in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on September 3, 1916, emphasizing the publics fascination with this traditional sport. In the early 20th century, archery began transitioning from a necessary military skill to a recreational activity. This photograph not only documents the participants in their attire and equipment but also reflects a time when communities came together to celebrate athletic competitions, fostering camaraderie and local pride.