Vintage photographs are a key source of inspiration. One image that keeps inspiring is this 1900 scene at the corner of School and Washington Streets, the very core of Boston’s historic beginnings. The well dressed men, the bricks and cobblestones, the multitude of signs (30) and the clarity of detail — truly mesmerizing. This building is said to be Boston’s first brick-made structure and dates back to 1712, which makes it just short of 200 years old at the time this photo was taken in 1900. I just assumed the building had succumbed to the passage of time ages ago — who wouldn’t. I couldn’t believe my eyes when we happened upon this exact location while walking the city's Freedom Trail a few years ago. There it was, beautifully restored, enchanting as ever. I had to pinch myself.

Step into the ultra high-resolution original of this photograph at Shorpy Historical Photo Archive by clicking on the above image. You’ll be amazed.

We recently made a replica of a section of the Damrell & Upham Booksellers facia signs that hang above the awnings. For more history on The Old Corner Bookstore, click on the below image to link to our gallery.