Home > Arts > Artists > H > Lewis Wickes Hine
Glass-blowing machine, 1908 C016 / 4503
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Glass-blowing machine, 1908 C016 / 4503
Glass-blowing machines. Early 20th-century machines designed to take molten glass and blow four milk bottles into moulds (centre). Machines such as this were intended to reduce the need for manual labour, including child labour. These machines are part of production at the Travis Glass Company, Clarksburg, West Virginia, USA. This photograph, obtained by US sociologist and photographer Lewis Wickes Hine (1874-1940), dates from October 1908. Hine was a photographer for the National Child Labor Committee (NCLC), documenting working and living conditions for children, and campaigning against child labour and poverty in the USA
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9204965
© LIBRARY OF CONGRESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1908 Automation Child Labour Device Engineering Factory Machine Machinery Manufacture Manufacturing North American Producing Production Sociological Sociology Workshop Bottling Clarksburg Glass Blowing Glass Bottle Lewis Wickes Hine Milk Bottles National Child Labor Committee Social History West Virginia
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures a significant moment in the history of glass-blowing technology. Taken in October 1908 by renowned sociologist and photographer Lewis Wickes Hine, this image showcases an early 20th-century glass-blowing machine at the Travis Glass Company in Clarksburg, West Virginia. The machine itself stands tall and imposing, its intricate engineering design evident as it takes molten glass and effortlessly transforms it into four perfectly shaped milk bottles within moulds placed at its center. This innovative device was specifically created to reduce manual labor, including child labor, which was prevalent during that era. Hine's work for the National Child Labor Committee (NCLC) aimed to shed light on the harsh working conditions faced by children across America. Through his lens, he documented not only their struggles but also campaigned against child labor and poverty. In this particular photograph, we witness a pivotal moment where automation intersects with social reform. The glass-blowing machine represents progress in industrialization while simultaneously addressing societal concerns surrounding child exploitation. As we gaze upon this historical artifact from over a century ago, we are reminded of both the advancements made in manufacturing technology and the ongoing fight for workers' rights. It serves as a testament to human ingenuity and our collective responsibility to create safer working environments for all.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
