Bates Block and Opera House

Context: Main Image: The postcard features Bates Block and Opera House in Attleboro, Massachusetts, from June 1906, with handwritten text on the front.

Details:

1. Overview:
   • The postcard presents a black-and-white photograph of Bates Block and Opera House, a prominent and historically significant building in Attleboro.
   • The scene captures the bustling activity around the building, offering a glimpse into the town’s early 20th-century life.
2. Buildings and Architecture:
   • Bates Block is a large, brick building with multiple stories, arched windows, and decorative architectural elements.
   • The Opera House is prominently featured within the block, indicating its importance as a cultural venue.
   • The building has several awnings and signage, typical of the period’s commercial architecture.
3. Street Activity:
   • The postcard shows several pedestrians, both men and women, walking along the street and sidewalk, dressed in early 1900s attire.
   • Bicycles and other street activity add to the lively atmosphere depicted in the photograph.
   • A woman in a long dress and hat is seen in the foreground, emphasizing the fashion of the time.
4. Handwritten Text:
   • The top part of the postcard has handwritten text, providing a personal touch and historical context.
   • The text reads, “June 3, 1906. Dear Lany: How are you all? What an awful accident you had down below you last Sunday? Did you know anyone? Suppose you know who…”
   • The message offers a personal connection to the historical moment captured in the photograph.
5. Visual Elements:
   • The black-and-white photograph provides a clear, detailed view of Bates Block and its surroundings.
   • The overall condition of the postcard is good, with legible handwriting and minimal wear, enhancing its historical value.

Historical Context:

• This postcard captures Bates Block and Opera House during a time when it served as a central hub for commerce and culture in Attleboro.
• The handwritten message adds a layer of personal history, reflecting communication methods and social connections of the era.

Cultural Importance:

• The postcard serves as a valuable historical record, preserving the architectural heritage and community spirit of Attleboro.
• It offers insights into the town’s daily life, cultural events, and social interactions in the early 20th century.

Overall Impression:

• The postcard effectively conveys the historical and architectural significance of Bates Block and Opera House, showcasing its role as a central and cherished part of Attleboro.
• It is a notable addition to the collection, providing a vivid and personal perspective on the town’s development and community life.

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