Background
Bert Elias Underwood was born on April 29, 1862, in Oxford Township, Henry County, Illinois, United States.
Bert Elias Underwood was born on April 29, 1862, in Oxford Township, Henry County, Illinois, United States.
Self-taught as a photographer, Bert Underwood attended the University of Ottawa, Kansas.
In 1882 Bert Underwood began selling stereoscopic photographs in Kansas and with his brother Elmer, formed the firm of Underwood and Underwood. Within two years the firm extended its activities to the Pacific coast. In 1886 an office was opened in Baltimore, followed by others in New York, Chicago, Toronto, and other foreign countries.
As early as 1896 Bert Underwood began providing pictures with news interest to The Illustrated London News and Harper’s Weekly. During World War I, with a major's commission, he commanded the photographic division of the Signal Corps.
Bert Underwood was actively involved in his community and the Presbyterian Church.
Bert Underwood was a member of the following organizations: Mayor's Committee, American Legion, Sons of the American Revolution, Masons and Lake Placid (New York) Club.