Attleboro High School

Context: Main Image: The postcard features a color-tinted photograph of Attleboro High School in Attleboro, Massachusetts, from the early 20th century.

Details:

Architecture:

• The building has a steeply pitched roof with multiple gables and a central bell tower, which is adorned with intricate woodwork, showcasing elements of Victorian Gothic Revival style.
• The structure is large and imposing, with a symmetrical facade featuring evenly spaced windows and a grand entrance.
• The front porch has decorative woodwork, including turned spindles and ornate brackets, adding to the building’s elaborate design.
• The exterior walls are clad in wood siding, and the building sits on a raised foundation with visible basement windows.

Setting:

• The high school is situated on a corner lot with well-maintained grass and tree-lined sidewalks, creating a welcoming environment.
• The presence of mature trees around the building indicates an established and cared-for landscape.
• The sky is color-tinted in a light blue, suggesting a clear day, and the overall setting conveys a sense of calm and orderliness.

Interpretation:

Historical Context:

• This postcard likely dates from the early 1900s, a period when color-tinting black-and-white photographs was a common practice to enhance visual appeal.
• The image captures the architectural style and educational infrastructure typical of that era, reflecting the community’s commitment to providing substantial and aesthetically pleasing school buildings.

Architectural Significance:

• The Victorian Gothic Revival elements, such as the bell tower and intricate woodwork, highlight the architectural trends of the early 20th century, emphasizing decorative details and grandiose designs for public buildings.
• The symmetry and scale of the high school building demonstrate the importance placed on education and the community’s investment in creating an impressive educational facility.

Cultural Importance:

• The postcard captures a historical moment, depicting the high school’s role as a central institution in the community.
• The well-maintained grounds and the imposing structure symbolize the societal value placed on education and the pride the community takes in its public institutions.

Additional Details: