Go back

General Electric Company Legal Department Group Portrait (1894)

Photograph
A black-and-white photograph of seven individuals from the General Electric Company's Legal Department, taken in December 1894 in Harrison, New York. The group consists of men and women dressed in formal late 19th-century attire, standing and seated in front of a building. Lewis H. Latimer, noted as a draughtsman, is among them. The handwritten inscription on the front identifies the setting and date, while the back of the photograph lists the names and roles of those pictured.
General Electric Company Legal Department Group Portrait (1894) picture number 1
DSC_7391 DSC_7392

This photograph captures members of the General Electric Company’s legal and technical staff in the late 19th century, a time when the company was at the forefront of electrical innovation. Lewis H. Latimer, an African American inventor and engineer, played a crucial role in the development of electric lighting and was a key figure in drafting patents for the incandescent light bulb. His work at General Electric placed him among notable inventors and experts in electrical engineering. The inclusion of women in the office setting also reflects the gradual integration of women into technical and administrative roles during this period.

Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]

Front of the photograph: Caption: "Expert’s Office. Legal Department. Gen. Electric Company. Dec. 1894. Harrison, N.Y." Back of the photograph: W.H. Hamman Clerk W.J. Jones Electrical Expert Chas Wills L.H. Latimer, Draughtsman E.W. Hammans Clerk & Electrician Miss J. Gibney T.W. Mrs. R. Platt T.W.