Transcription:
Postmarked:
History and Notes:
Context: Main Image: The postcard features a colorized photograph of the Soldiers’ Monument in Attleboro, Massachusetts, situated prominently in a town square.
Details:
Foreground:
- The monument stands tall in the center of an open space, likely a town square.
- The statue of a soldier holding a flag is positioned at the top of the monument, similar to the one seen in Postcard 43.
- The base of the monument is inscribed with the dates “1861 – 1865” and “ATTLEBOROUGH’S TRIBUTE.”
Middle Ground:
- Surrounding the monument are buildings typical of a town square, including a laundry service and a store with the sign “J. E. NIGAN.”
- There is a horse-drawn carriage parked on the street, adding to the historical context of the scene.
- Trees and additional buildings are visible in the background, giving a sense of the town’s layout and architecture during this period.
Background:
- The sky is clear with soft clouds, providing a peaceful backdrop to the scene.
- The buildings behind the monument are two to three stories high, with signs indicating the types of businesses present during that era.
Text:
- The top of the postcard reads “Attleboro, Mass. Soldiers’ Monument.”
- The inscription on the base of the monument includes the year “1908,” indicating when the monument was erected.
Condition:
- The postcard is in good condition, with vibrant colors and clear details.
- There is some wear along the edges, which is typical for postcards of this age.
Interpretation:
Historical Context:
- The Soldiers’ Monument was erected to honor the soldiers from Attleboro who fought in the Civil War.
- The presence of businesses and a horse-drawn carriage suggests a bustling town square, indicative of early 20th-century small-town America.
Cultural Importance:
- The monument serves as a symbol of the town’s respect and gratitude for its soldiers.
- It acts as a focal point for community gatherings and remembrance ceremonies.
Artistic Elements:
- The colorization of the photograph adds depth and brings the historical scene to life.
- The use of vibrant colors for the buildings and the sky contrasts with the solemn gray of the monument, highlighting its importance.
Overall Impression:
- The postcard captures the essence of a historical town square, with the Soldiers’ Monument standing as a testament to the town’s heritage and pride.
- It provides a vivid snapshot of daily life in Attleboro, Massachusetts, during the early 1900s.
Additional Details:
