The short period of what might be called the ragtime era lasted from:

Ragtime is a melodic style that loved its top reputation between 1895 and 1918. Its key trait is its modified, or "ragged", rhythm. The style has its roots in African-American groups in towns such as St. Louis. Ernest Hogan was the first creator to have his ragtime parts printed as sheet music, start with the song "LA Pas Ma LA," circulated in 1895.