Sanford Street School, High School, Richardson School

Context: area includes mature trees, providing shade and a picturesque environment.

Middle Left Image: Sanford Street School

• The central building is a large, ornate structure with a mansard roof, multiple dormer windows, and a central cupola, indicative of the Second Empire architectural style.
• The building has a grand entrance with a set of steps leading up to it, flanked by columns and a detailed balcony above.
• The facade is constructed from red brick with white stone accents, giving it a stately and formal appearance.
• The surrounding area includes mature trees and a well-maintained lawn.

Bottom Right Image: Richardson School

• The building is a two-story brick structure with a symmetrical facade, typical of early 20th-century school architecture.
• The entrance is marked by a prominent archway with a set of steps leading up to it, flanked by large rectangular windows.
• The building features flat brick pilasters and detailed cornices, adding to its classical design elements.
• The roof is hipped with a shallow pitch, and two brick chimneys are visible.
• The surrounding area includes additional buildings, suggesting a community setting around the school.

Setting:

• The schools are set on well-maintained lawns with mature trees and shrubbery, creating a picturesque and welcoming environment.
• The surrounding area includes additional residential buildings and streets, indicating that the schools are located within a community setting.

Text:

• The postcard includes the text “Sanford Street School, High School, Richardson School, Attleboro, Mass.” at the bottom, identifying the location and providing context for the image.
• There is a handwritten note on the right side that reads, “Where I enjoyed my school days. Grace,” adding a personal touch to the postcard.

Interpretation:

Historical Context:

• This postcard likely dates from the early 1900s, capturing the architectural and educational landscape of the schools in Attleboro during this period. The use of black-and-white photography was common before the widespread use of color-tinting.
• The buildings reflect the architectural styles prevalent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, showcasing a mix of Victorian, Second Empire, and classical influences.

Architectural Significance:

• The variety of architectural styles, including Victorian, Second Empire, and classical elements, highlights the architectural diversity and grandeur often associated with important public and educational buildings of this era.
• The large windows, symmetrical designs, and ornate details reflect practical considerations for school buildings, ensuring adequate lighting, ventilation, and aesthetic appeal.

Cultural Importance:

• The postcard captures a historical moment, illustrating the community’s pride in their educational facilities and the importance placed on providing substantial and attractive environments for learning.
• The presence of handwritten notes adds a personal and historical element, providing insight into the social interactions and communication methods of the time.
• The well-maintained grounds and imposing structures of the schools symbolize the societal value placed on education and the role of schools as central institutions within the community.

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