Exterior of Unidentified Building
Datec. 1900
MediumPaper
ClassificationsDocumentary Artifact
Catalog number1987.1.127
DescriptionVictorian-era Refreshment Room (travelers' restaurant) along a railroad in England, another British-connected country, or Europe. The connection to Tempe is unknown, though may be a travel souvenir of the Hayden family (donor).The image shows a substantial building, or series of connected buildings, with broad, steep-sloped roof areas and one or two multipaned windows with opened wooden window covers. The building(s) have a European character to them, and it is unlikely that the photo was taken in the United States.
There are four men in the photo standing in close proximity to an open doorway with signage above the door. All wear formal trousers and coats, of which their styles imply late 19th century Victorian era.
The further of two signs has wording that cannot be read, and the same is true for the board to the right of the door. The closer sign is above the doorway where the men stand, and what can be read of the sign is: "Entrance to B..... of B..... Refreshment Rooms".
On the back of the photograph is the studio information, "American Secular Union & Freethought Federation - 14 (or 141) South Water Street Chicago".
Refreshment Rooms were common in the Victorian-era in places like Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand along train lines. These businesses served food and beverage to train travelers in a period when dining cars were not yet in common use. The angle of the photo does not show a rail line or train, but it is likely that a train stop/depot is nearby.
Status
Not on view
October 1984
October 1984
