Rare original gelatin silver photograph of firemen fighting the Taggart Block fire, which occurred in Watertown, New York in 1919. Several business names are clearly visible, including a photography studio.
Built in 1873, The Taggart Block on the corner of Public Square and Franklin was originally known as the Winslow Block. The four-story building originally had an elaborate entrance with balcony overhead on the Public Square side and initially designed with an ornate cornice. Home to a number of businesses on the ground floor, including a .99¢ store, it later was renamed the Taggart Block in the 1880s. In 1919, it was destroyed by one of the larger fires in Watertown's history and later replaced with the smaller Commerce building there today.
The photograph itself is in very good or better antique condition. The mount, which measures 12" x 10", is in good condition with some wear. The back is blank.
Boxed shipping.