Watson & Newell Factory

Context: Main Image: The postcard depicts the Watson & Newell Factory on 64 Mechanic St. in Attleboro, Massachusetts, framed by trees and greenery.

Details: Foreground:

• A dirt path runs across the foreground, leading the eye towards the factory in the background.
• The path is bordered by lush grass and bushes, adding a natural element to the scene.

Middle Ground:

• The factory is partially obscured by large trees, which add depth and a sense of scale to the image.
• The factory building itself is a substantial, multi-story structure with numerous windows, indicating its industrial purpose.
• Smaller outbuildings with red roofs are visible near the main factory building.

Background:

• The factory extends into the background, with more windows and architectural details visible through the trees.
• The overall setting suggests the factory is situated in a relatively green and open area.

Text:

• The top right of the postcard reads “Watson & Newell Factory,” followed by “Attleboro, Mass.” in red text.

Condition:

• The postcard is in good condition, with vibrant colors and clear details.
• There are no significant blemishes or marks that detract from the overall image.

Interpretation: Historical Context:

• The Watson & Newell Factory represents an important part of Attleboro’s industrial history, likely associated with the manufacturing sector.
• The building’s design and the presence of multiple windows suggest a focus on production and efficiency, common in early 20th-century industrial architecture.

Cultural Importance:

• The factory is a symbol of Attleboro’s industrial heritage and its role in the broader economic landscape of the region.
• The postcard provides a visual record of the factory’s presence and its integration into the natural surroundings.

Artistic Elements:

• The use of color highlights the factory and contrasts it with the green foliage, creating a balanced and aesthetically pleasing image.
• The trees in the foreground add a sense of depth and frame the factory, making it the focal point of the postcard.

Overall Impression:

• This postcard effectively captures the Watson & Newell Factory within its natural setting, offering a balanced view of the industrial and natural elements.
• The combination of the factory, the path, and the surrounding trees provides a well-rounded perspective of this historical location in Attleboro.
• The postcard serves as a valuable piece of historical documentation, illustrating the architectural and industrial landscape of early 20th-century Attleboro.

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