S. O. Bigney & Co.

Context: Main Image: The postcard features a black and white photograph of the S.O. Bigney & Co. manufacturing jewelers building on County St. in Attleboro, Massachusetts. The image captures the industrial architecture of the early 20th century.

Details: Foreground:

• The ground in front of the building appears rough and unpaved, possibly indicative of the early infrastructure.
• There are some visible markings on the ground, possibly from vehicles or foot traffic.

Middle Ground:

• The building itself is a sturdy, three-story structure made of brick, with evenly spaced windows on each floor.
• The windows are arched, adding an element of architectural interest to the industrial building.
• The building has two main entrances, each located centrally on the ground floor.

Background:

• Adjacent buildings are partially visible, suggesting that this factory is part of a larger industrial area.
• The background is largely obscured, focusing attention on the S.O. Bigney & Co. building.

Text:

• The bottom of the postcard reads “S.O. Bigney & Co., Mfg. Jewelers Attleboro, Mass.” in black text.
• Handwritten notes are present on the right and top edges of the postcard, indicating it was used for correspondence.
• There is a visible postmark stamped with “LESLIE ARK SEP 30 1906.”

Condition:

• The postcard is in fair condition, with some signs of wear and aging.
• The edges of the postcard show slight damage and discoloration, typical of items from this period.
• The handwritten notes and postmark add historical context and a personal touch to the postcard.

Interpretation: Historical Context:

• S.O. Bigney & Co. represents part of Attleboro’s rich history in manufacturing, particularly in the jewelry industry.
• The postcard dates back to 1906, offering a glimpse into the industrial landscape of the town during that era.

Cultural Importance:

• The presence of a manufacturing jeweler indicates the significance of the jewelry industry in Attleboro’s economic development.
• The handwritten notes suggest that postcards were a common means of communication, providing a personal connection to the industrial history.

Artistic Elements:

• The black and white photograph emphasizes the architectural features of the building.
• The handwritten notes and postmark add an element of authenticity and historical value to the postcard.

Overall Impression:

• This postcard serves as a valuable piece of historical documentation, showcasing the industrial heritage of Attleboro.
• The combination of the sturdy factory building and personal correspondence provides a multifaceted view of early 20th-century life in the town.
• The postcard effectively captures both the industrial and personal aspects of Attleboro’s history, making it a significant artifact for historical preservation.

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