Vintage Family Portrait: The Blacktons Circa 1915

This photograph captures the Blackton family, taken by a photographer associated with the Bain News Service, likely between 1915 and 1920. The usage of glass negatives during this period was common, allowing for high-quality images that showcased the intricacies of subjects and settings. Families like the Blacktons often turned to professional photographers to document significant moments in their lives, and this image illustrates the values and cultural norms of the early twentieth century, when family representation was becoming an essential part of societal identity.

The Blackton family, like many at the time, would have experienced the transformative effects of this era, including the impact of World War I and the beginnings of modernity. As urbanization surged, families often sought to capture not only their personal milestones but also a sense of connection to the wider world around them. The photograph stands as a detailed record of daily life and family dynamics, showcasing how people presented themselves through style, demeanor, and setting in a rapidly changing society. The work of the Bain News Service played a critical role in documenting such moments, contributing to our understanding of history through the lens of everyday life.