Note that twisted-pair wires (also known as "cord") were used for subscriber lines where this photo was taken. They were constructed with rubber insulation around each solid copper strand, covered with cloth; and then twisted like you see here. I believe that using "cord" was a fairly commonplace practice until the 1930s or so when far more durable and stronger rubber-covered subscriber wire was introduced, becoming standard with Bell Telephone Companies.

An incandescent radial wave street light also is seen. This design was very popular for several decades after the 1910s.