Monument Square

Context: Main Image: The postcard offers a detailed view of Monument Square in Attleboro, Massachusetts, featuring the Soldiers Monument and surrounding historic structures.

Details: Foreground:

• The postcard prominently displays a bustling square filled with vintage automobiles parked around the Soldiers Monument.
• A “SLOW KEEP LEFT” sign is visible in front of the parked cars, directing traffic flow within the square.

Middle Ground:

• The Soldiers Monument stands centrally in the image, with a statue of a soldier holding a flag at the top and additional figures on the base representing various military roles.
• The base of the monument is surrounded by a well-maintained circular area, possibly paved, indicating its central importance in the town.

Background:

• The background showcases a variety of buildings, including the red brick First Baptist Church with a clock tower.
• Adjacent to the church is a white building with a steeple, possibly another church or significant town structure.
• A double-arched stone bridge is visible to the left, adding a notable architectural element to the scene.
• Trees and other greenery provide a lush backdrop to the buildings, adding to the town’s charm.

Text:

• The top left of the postcard reads “Monument Square, Attleboro, Mass.” in black text.

Condition:

• The postcard is in good condition with clear and vibrant colors.
• Minor wear or marks are visible but do not detract significantly from the overall image.

Interpretation: Historical Context:

• Monument Square is a central and historically significant area in Attleboro, serving as a focal point for community activities and commemorations.
• The Soldiers Monument commemorates the contributions and sacrifices of soldiers from Attleboro, reflecting the town’s military heritage.

Cultural Importance:

• The postcard captures key landmarks, such as the Soldiers Monument, First Baptist Church, and the stone bridge, highlighting their importance to the town’s identity.
• The presence of numerous vintage cars indicates the era’s transportation methods and adds historical context to the image.

Artistic Elements:

• The use of color emphasizes the monument and the surrounding vehicles and buildings, providing a vivid depiction of the town’s central area.
• The composition, with the monument at the center and historic buildings in the background, offers a comprehensive view of Monument Square.

Overall Impression:

• This postcard effectively captures the significance of Monument Square in Attleboro, showcasing its architectural and historical landmarks.
• The combination of the Soldiers Monument, the church buildings, the stone bridge, and the parked automobiles provides a well-rounded view of this central location in the town.
• The postcard serves as a valuable piece of historical documentation, illustrating the architectural and societal landscape of early 20th-century Attleboro.

Additional Details: [1923 2c Washington, carmine, perforated, type III]