Attleboro High School

Context: Main Image: The postcard features a colorized photograph of Attleboro High School in Attleboro, Massachusetts.

Details:

• Architecture:
  • The building showcases Victorian architectural elements typical of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Notable features include a steeply pitched roof, ornate woodwork, and a prominent cupola or bell tower with intricate detailing.
  • The exterior walls are clad in wood siding, painted in a warm brown color with white trim around the windows and other architectural details.
  • Large, double-hung windows with multiple panes are evenly spaced across the facade, providing ample natural light to the interior.
  • A decorative front porch with turned columns and balusters adds to the building’s ornate appearance.
• Setting:
  • The photograph is taken during a season when the trees are bare, likely late fall or winter, allowing an unobstructed view of the building.
  • The school is situated on a neatly maintained plot with grass and a sidewalk running along the front, indicating its placement in a suburban or urban neighborhood.
  • Adjacent residential buildings are visible, suggesting the school’s central location within the community.
• Text:
  • The bottom center of the postcard has the text “Attleboro High School. Attleboro, Mass.” printed in a classic serif font, providing a formal and historical feel.
  • On the right side, handwritten text is partially visible, adding a personal touch and suggesting that the postcard was used to send a message.

Interpretation:

• Historical Context: This postcard likely dates from the early 20th century, a period when high school education became increasingly important and public investment in educational infrastructure grew. The architectural style reflects the era’s aesthetic preferences and construction techniques.
• Architectural Significance: The Victorian style of the building emphasizes the importance of the institution and reflects the community’s pride in its educational facilities. The intricate details and grand design are indicative of the value placed on education and the aspiration to provide a stimulating learning environment.
• Cultural Importance: High schools were central to community life, serving not only as places of learning but also as venues for social and cultural activities. The postcard captures the significance of the school within the Attleboro community.

Additional Details: