Grade Crossing

Context: Grade Crossing, Attleboro, Mass.

• View and Setting: This postcard depicts a bustling railroad grade crossing in Attleboro, Massachusetts, showing a mix of industrial and residential elements.

• Prominent Features:

  • Railroad Bridge: The central focus is on a stone railroad bridge with two arches. This bridge allows trains to pass overhead while people and vehicles can pass underneath.

  • Train and Smoke: A steam locomotive with a plume of smoke can be seen traveling across the bridge, giving a sense of motion and activity.

  • Red Brick Building: To the right of the bridge, a striking red brick building with a clock tower stands out. This building likely serves a civic or commercial purpose and adds architectural interest to the scene.

  • People and Bicycles: In the foreground, a few individuals on bicycles are visible, indicating the era’s transportation modes and adding life to the scene.

  • Stairs and Underpass: The right side of the bridge features a set of stairs leading up to the bridge level, while the underpass allows for pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

  • Telegraph Poles: Several telegraph poles are visible, highlighting the communication infrastructure typical of the early 20th century.

Sky and Landscape: The sky is clear with a few clouds, providing a serene backdrop to the industrious scene. The landscape includes a mix of greenery and urban elements.