A Christmas Tree at the Turn of the 20th Century

Harry E. Bisco- December 1905
Photo colorized by Longmeadow Historian
courtesy of Digital Commonwealth/ Longmeadow Historical Society
(Click photo to enlarge.)

In 1907 the Spencer, MA resident Paesiello Emerson moved to Longmeadow, MA.  Many of us recognize his name.  He was the gentleman who took up the hobby of photography later in his life.  Mr. Emerson took photographs of people, places and objects in Longmeadow, MA- documenting our town at the turn of the 20th century.  

Before moving to Longmeadow, Mr. Emerson enjoyed using his camera and took photos in the town where he lived, Spencer, MA.  The photograph above was taken in Spencer in 1905.  It is very interesting to see a young boy standing next to an early 20th century Christmas tree. We have the opportunity to view decorations on the tree and also gifts that he enjoyed.  Strands of popcorn decorate the tree along with treasured manufactured ornaments and other keepsakes.

The boy is 6 year old Harry Evelith Bisco.  He was born in Spencer, MA in 1899.  Harry's father Leonard was a farmer in Spencer where Harry, his dad and his mom Nellie lived.  

Perhaps this was a Christmas keepsake photo that Mr. and Mrs. Bisco paid Mr. Emerson to take.  Or maybe it was a gift from Mr. Emerson to Harry's parents.  Harry's name (first name misspelled) and the date is written on a sign under the tree.  

This 1905 photograph gives us a wonderful opportunity to view a Christmas tree from 117 years ago!

Paesiello Emerson took another photo also dated December 1905.  It was a photo of the Bisco family.

Bisco Family- December 1905
Photo colorized by Longmeadow Historian
courtesy of Digital Commonwealth/ Longmeadow Historical Society
(Click photo enlarge.)

 

This is a beautiful family photo of 3 generations of Harry E. Bisco's family.

Left to Right:
Joel F. Draper (his maternal grandfather), Nellie and Leonard A. Bisco (his parents), Harry sitting in front, Ella and Felix Cassavant (his step- sister and her husband)

Thank you Mr. Emerson for taking these interesting photographs 117 years ago!

Sources:  1899 Spencer, MA Marriage Records, 1899 Spencer, MA Birth Records, Springfield Republican- May 15, 1907, 1880, 1900 and 1910 U.S. Federal Census, 1903-04 Spencer, MA Marriage Records and 1907 Spencer, MA Street Directory.

~Written by Judy Moran