We shared this vintage photo on the Essex on Lake Champlain Facebook page and invited our viewers to play some Vintage Essex Trivia with the image.
This photo captures a winter scene in Essex, NY in front of the Essex Community Church. It was probably taken in the late 1800s or early 1900s. The utility pole on the far right suggests that the town has electricity.
A sleigh pulled by two large horses waits in front of the church with two men in the sleigh and one more standing next to it. Perhaps services or some event is about to begin at the church or just ended? Or perhaps the group simply stopped in the street to chat? That is a common sight even now (minus the horse-drawn sleigh).
A sleigh is such a whimsical method of transportation, but it’s a rare one today. I recall once riding in one as a child, and that was my only experience. I don’t remember much, but it is a fond memory. I would love to see sleighs and carriages come back into fashion. What do you think of them?
In the background we can see two buildings on Main Street. The one on the left I believe is the Noble Warehouse (the Masonic Lodge today). Can you identify the other building?
Dozens of people liked the photo when we shared it on Facebook, but it did not generate any conversation. Perhaps you have something to say? Tell us what you think of this old photograph! Can you identify any of the men in the photo?
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The other house is the one that Jack Halpin has for sale.