Factory District, Looking East

Context: Main Image: The postcard provides an aerial view of the Factory District, looking east in Attleboro, Massachusetts.

Details: Foreground:

• The foreground features several residential houses with pitched roofs and various architectural styles. The homes are closely spaced, typical of an urban setting.
• There is visible greenery, including trees and small gardens around the houses.

Middle Ground:

• The middle ground transitions to a mix of residential and industrial buildings. There are more densely packed structures, suggesting a bustling community.
• Some industrial buildings have multiple stories, and their larger size contrasts with the smaller homes in the foreground.
• Various signage on buildings is partially visible, indicating different businesses and factories.

Background:

• The background is dominated by large factory buildings, identifiable by their size and the presence of smokestacks and water towers.
• Industrial structures fill the horizon, demonstrating the significance of manufacturing to the area.
• The sky appears hazy, possibly due to industrial activity.

Text:

• The caption at the bottom of the postcard reads “FACTORY DISTRICT, LOOKING EAST, ATTLEBORO, MASS.”

Condition:

• The postcard is in good condition but has a vintage look, with slight discoloration and some visible wear along the edges.
• The black-and-white image has a grainy texture, typical of early photographic postcards.

Interpretation: Historical Context:

• The postcard likely dates back to the early 20th century when Attleboro was known for its jewelry manufacturing and other industrial activities.
• The image captures the coexistence of residential and industrial areas, a common urban planning approach during the industrial era.

Cultural Importance:

• The Factory District view emphasizes the economic backbone of Attleboro, highlighting the factories that provided employment and contributed to the town’s growth.
• The proximity of homes to factories reflects the industrial community’s lifestyle, where workers lived close to their places of employment.

Artistic Elements:

• The aerial perspective offers a comprehensive view of the area, providing context to the layout and scale of the factory district.
• The monochrome palette and grainy texture add to the historical ambiance, giving the viewer a sense of stepping back in time.

Overall Impression:

• This postcard effectively captures the essence of the Factory District in Attleboro, showcasing the blend of residential and industrial buildings.
• The image serves as a valuable historical document, illustrating the town’s industrial heritage and urban landscape during a significant period of growth and development.

Additional Details: