Re Soren's comment, it does generally seem to be the case that whenever we get a before and after here, the old photo has more life, at least in the streets, and outside of NYC. Beautiful photos he's brought us.

In regard to this pair in particular, one of the most striking things to me is how the tall building has been utterly ruined. That groove on the side was essential; with it gone, the building is no longer elegant but squat, and throwing that junk on the top adds to the insult. UGH!

[Darn fire codes. - Dave]

All the EEEs you need are in the four-story building on the right.

Seems to be the only one who knows his picture is being taken.

Have they closed off the portion of the Madison building that dipped in or are my eyes having some massive perception problems?

One thing that struck me was how much more life the old picture has then the new one? Of course this could be explained by circumstance like day of week, time of day etc. but that was my first strong impression. Nice photo, the first one.

I just discovered Shorpy today and I must say it's an incredible find.

My contribution comes on behalf of my Grandfather, Frank Oscar Larson. A little of a year ago my mother, while sifting through old boxes, came across a box of negatives taken by Frank in the 1950s. Frank was a banker by profession, but an avid photographer on the side. I've sorted, scanned and worked them into a website. I hope you find it interestind.

http://www.franklarsonphotos.com/index.htm

His work is now on display at The Perfect Exposure Gallery in Los Angeles.

Best, Soren Larson

[The photos are amazing! Shorpy says check them out. - Dave]

I have to chuckle when I look at the telephone pole -- it is as covered with stuff back in 1906 as it would be today. And some of them look like the same stuff! I see that there is a wallpaper company in town as well.

Interestingly enough it looks like whatever crossbars that were supposed to be on the pole have either been removed or not installed yet.

[It's not a telephone pole. It's a support for streetcar wires. - Dave]

Then why the cutouts further up the pole ( the square notches) also this looks like it was not a refined piece of work. Note the "y" at the very top. This looks like a tree that was adapted as a pole... in somewhat of a hurry.

he said, as they headed for those precarious fire escape ladders.

Below is the same view (looking west on Madison Avenue from November 6 Street, Memphis) taken in August of 2008.

It's over by the curb to the right of the kid on the bike.