Richardson School

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

Details:

Architecture:

• The building is a two-story brick structure with a symmetrical facade, typical of the late 19th and early 20th-century school architecture.
• The entrance is marked by a prominent archway with a set of steps leading up to it, flanked by large rectangular windows.
• The building features flat brick pilasters and detailed cornices, adding to its classical design elements.
• The roof is hipped with a shallow pitch, and two brick chimneys are visible, indicating the presence of heating systems within the school.
• The windows are large, multi-pane, and evenly spaced, providing ample natural light to the interior classrooms.

Setting:

• The school is set back from the street with a neatly trimmed hedge bordering the well-kept lawn in front of the building.
• There are mature trees and additional buildings visible in the background, suggesting a residential or community setting around the school.
• The sky is color-tinted in light blue, indicating clear weather and enhancing the overall aesthetic of the postcard.

Interpretation:

Historical Context:

• This postcard likely dates from the early 1900s, a time when color-tinting photographs was common to add vibrancy and appeal to printed images.
• The image reflects the educational infrastructure and architectural style prevalent in small-town America during this period, emphasizing functionality and classical design.

Architectural Significance:

• The use of brick and classical design elements such as arches and pilasters showcases the architectural trends of the era, which favored durable and aesthetically pleasing public buildings.
• The symmetrical design and large windows highlight the practical considerations for school buildings, ensuring adequate lighting and ventilation for the classrooms.

Cultural Importance:

• The postcard captures a historical moment, illustrating the importance placed on education and the investment in substantial and attractive school facilities.
• The well-maintained grounds and the imposing structure of Richardson School symbolize the community’s pride in their educational institutions and the value placed on providing quality education for children.

Additional Details: