ADDRESS: 144 W. Ash St., Mason, Michigan, 48854
TITLE: Early Postmaster
ARTIST: Marion Overby
MEDIUM: Terra-cotta (relief)
STATUS: The relieve resides in the lobby above the postmaster’s door.
Year: 1939
I debated with myself as to whether I should post this one. Here is why, for starters the construction in the front of building. Not the prettiest picture but at least I was able to document a little bit. Another reason I almost didn’t post this one is because it was closed at the time I visited. It was a Sunday, and this one does not keep the lobby open.
So those were the two reason I almost decided not to post this one yet. But I figured it may be a while before I get back to this one. And that is the story for a lot of the photos I have, and I figured I might as well get them out there. Just because I don’t like the photo, or because I wasn’t able to get the artwork shouldn’t prevent me from posting that I’ve at least made the effort. So that is my story and I’m sticking to it. Yes, I visited, No I did not get inside to view the artwork. But that is how is goes sometime. And although I’m not OK with it, what other choice do I have?
So I’m offering this one up for you all. What can you tell me about it? Do you have picture’s you like to send me of the artwork here? Maybe some historical photos or stories?
Thanks,
David W. Gates Jr.
Update September 2015
The lobby was closed during my initial visit in November of 2010. It must have been a Sunday or after hours. I don’t remember which, but I was not able to view the art. So when I return to Mason in August of this year 2015 I made sure to visit during business hours. Another bonus from this visit is that the construction was completed and the construction cones and flags obstruction the view of the building were gone.
That’s what it take some times to get these great pictures. Multiple visits and a willingness to keep at it. I hope you enjoy the following updated images of the Mason building and its plaster cast.
Thanks,
David W. Gates Jr.
“Used with the permission of the United States Postal Service®. All rights reserved.”
Sources
- Personal visit on 11/10/2013 and 8/6/2015 by David W. Gates Jr.
- United States Postal Service
- (affiliate link) Democratic Vistas: Post Offices and Public Art in the New Deal: [Hardcover] Marlene Park, Gerald E. Markowitz