Factory Buildings from R. R. Station

Context: Main Image: The postcard features factory buildings of The James E. Blake Co., on Mill St. in Attleboro, Massachusetts, viewed from the R.R. (Railroad) Station.

Details: Foreground:

• The factory buildings are situated on a street corner, with the main building displaying the company name “THE JAMES E. BLAKE CO.” prominently.
• The street in front of the buildings is paved, with a clear view of the sidewalk.
• A horse-drawn carriage is visible on the right side, with a driver and a passenger seated inside.

Middle Ground:

• The main building has a red-brick façade with arched windows on the ground floor and rectangular windows on the upper floor.
• To the left and right of the main building are additional factory buildings with large, white-framed windows, indicating the industrial nature of the area.
• Several people, including a woman in a dress and a man in a suit, are walking along the sidewalk, adding a human element to the scene.

Background:

• The factory buildings are surrounded by trees and other industrial structures, blending into the urban landscape of Attleboro.
• Telephone poles and wires are visible, indicating the presence of modern infrastructure for communication and electricity.

Text:

• The bottom left of the postcard reads “Attleboro, Mass. Factory Buildings from R. R. Station.” in black text.
• There is handwritten text on the postcard that reads “This is Eddie’s shop.”

Condition:

• The postcard is in good condition with vibrant colors and clear details.
• There are some faint marks or lines, particularly on the upper portion, but they do not significantly detract from the overall quality of the image.

Interpretation: Historical Context:

• The James E. Blake Co. was a significant industrial establishment in Attleboro, contributing to the town’s reputation as a manufacturing hub.
• The presence of multiple large factory buildings indicates the scale of operations and the importance of the company to the local economy.

Cultural Importance:

• Factories like The James E. Blake Co. were central to the economic and social life of Attleboro, providing employment and supporting the community’s growth.
• The postcard captures a moment in time, showcasing the industrial landscape and the everyday activities of the town’s residents.

Artistic Elements:

• The detailed depiction of the factory buildings highlights the architectural style and industrial design of the early 20th century.
• The use of color and perspective adds depth to the image, making the factory buildings stand out as prominent features of the urban landscape.

Overall Impression:

• This postcard effectively captures the industrial character of Attleboro, showcasing the significance of The James E. Blake Co. within the community.
• The combination of the factory buildings, the street scene, and the people provides a comprehensive 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: