Bates Block and Opera House

Date
June 8, 1906

Transcription:

June 9, 1906.
Dear Lanie: How are you all? What an awful accident you had down below you last Sunday? Did you know anyone? Suppose you know all about it, all fine. Cousin Eddie.

Miss Lucy B. Wilcox,
321 Abby Street,
East Providence,
R.I.

Postmarked:

Attleboro, Mass
June 8, 1906

1908 1c Benjamin Franklin, green, perforated, type I

History and Notes:

Context: Main Image: The postcard features Bates Block and Opera House in Attleboro, Massachusetts, from June 1906, with handwritten text on the front.

Details:

  1. Overview:
    • The postcard presents a black-and-white photograph of Bates Block and Opera House, a prominent and historically significant building in Attleboro.
    • The scene captures the bustling activity around the building, offering a glimpse into the town’s early 20th-century life.
  2. Buildings and Architecture:
    • Bates Block is a large, brick building with multiple stories, arched windows, and decorative architectural elements.
    • The Opera House is prominently featured within the block, indicating its importance as a cultural venue.
    • The building has several awnings and signage, typical of the period’s commercial architecture.
  3. Street Activity:
    • The postcard shows several pedestrians, both men and women, walking along the street and sidewalk, dressed in early 1900s attire.
    • Bicycles and other street activity add to the lively atmosphere depicted in the photograph.
    • A woman in a long dress and hat is seen in the foreground, emphasizing the fashion of the time.
  4. Handwritten Text:
    • The top part of the postcard has handwritten text, providing a personal touch and historical context.
    • The text reads, “June 3, 1906. Dear Lany: How are you all? What an awful accident you had down below you last Sunday? Did you know anyone? Suppose you know who…”
    • The message offers a personal connection to the historical moment captured in the photograph.
  5. Visual Elements:
    • The black-and-white photograph provides a clear, detailed view of Bates Block and its surroundings.
    • The overall condition of the postcard is good, with legible handwriting and minimal wear, enhancing its historical value.

Historical Context:

  • This postcard captures Bates Block and Opera House during a time when it served as a central hub for commerce and culture in Attleboro.
  • The handwritten message adds a layer of personal history, reflecting communication methods and social connections of the era.

Cultural Importance:

  • The postcard serves as a valuable historical record, preserving the architectural heritage and community spirit of Attleboro.
  • It offers insights into the town’s daily life, cultural events, and social interactions in the early 20th century.

Overall Impression:

  • The postcard effectively conveys the historical and architectural significance of Bates Block and Opera House, showcasing its role as a central and cherished part of Attleboro.
  • It is a notable addition to the collection, providing a vivid and personal perspective on the town’s development and community life.

Additional Details: [1908 1c Benjamin Franklin, green, perforated, type I]

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