Vintage Kansas Couple Portrait from the 1920s

This photograph features Thomas Smith and his wife from Kansas, captured between 1915 and 1920 by a photographer for Bain News Service. During this era, the United States was undergoing significant social and economic changes, including the impact of World War I and early movements for womens suffrage. The intimate nature of this portrait suggests a moment of personal significance amidst these broader historical currents.

The Bain News Service was known for documenting American life through photography. This image stands as a testament to that mission, showcasing everyday people and their experiences. Thomas and his wife represent a slice of American life in the early 20th century, reflecting the fashion and domestic styles of the time. The glass negative technique used by the photographer was prominent in that period, allowing for high-quality images that preserved details and nuances, contributing to our understanding of history through visual documentation.