South Main St. & Park St.

Context: Main Image: The postcard presents a sepia-toned photograph of a bustling street corner at South Main and Park Streets in Attleboro, Massachusetts. The scene is lively with people, horse-drawn carriages, and early automobiles.

Details:

1. Overview:
   • The photograph captures a detailed street view from the early 20th century.
   • The image is sepia-toned, adding a nostalgic and historical feel.
2. Buildings and Architecture:
   • Foreground (Left Side):
     • A horse-drawn carriage is parked at the corner, and an early automobile is seen to the left, showcasing the transition in transportation modes.
   • Center:
     • The central buildings have a mix of commercial establishments, with detailed wooden architecture and large windows.
     • The building on the corner has a clock mounted on the exterior, indicating a focus on providing services to pedestrians and shoppers.
   • Right Side:
     • The rightmost building houses “Geo. H. Merrick Watches, Diamonds,” indicating a jewelry store.
     • Another horse-drawn carriage is seen, highlighting the common mode of transportation during this period.
3. Street and Activities:
   • Main Street Activities:
     • The streets are bustling with pedestrians, some standing in groups and others engaged in conversation.
     • The presence of multiple horse-drawn carriages and an automobile indicates a lively commercial area.
     • Utility poles and overhead wires crisscross the scene, typical of early 20th-century urban infrastructure.
4. Visual Elements:
   • The sepia tone enhances the historical aspect, providing a warm and vintage appearance.
   • The overall composition captures the dynamic and busy nature of the street corner, making it a valuable historical document.
5. Condition and Text:
   • The postcard is in good condition with clear details.
   • The text at the bottom reads, “Coy. S. Main and Park Sts. Attleboro, Mass.,” providing a clear description of the location.

Historical Context:

• This postcard captures a moment in time at a busy street corner in Attleboro, offering insights into the architectural and social landscape of the early 20th century.
• The mix of horse-drawn carriages and early automobiles reflects the transitional period in transportation history.

Cultural Importance:

• The postcard serves as a historical record, showcasing the commercial vibrancy and urban development of Attleboro during the early 20th century.
• It contributes to our understanding of daily life and the evolution of urban infrastructure in small American towns.

Overall Impression:

• The postcard effectively captures a detailed and dynamic view of the street corner, making it a valuable piece of Attleboro’s historical narrative.
• The sepia tone and detailed depiction of buildings and activities provide a rich visual context, enhancing our appreciation of the town’s past.

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