Broadway–Phelps Park Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Broadway–Phelps Park Historic District
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 Location in Iowa
Location in the United States
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| Location | West Broadway from Winnebago Street to Park Drive Decorah, Iowa |
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| Area | approximately 40 acres (16 ha) |
| Architectural style | Late 19th and 20th century revivals Late Victorian |
| NRHP reference No. | 76000813 |
| Added to NRHP | November 13, 1976 |
The Broadway–Phelps Park Historic District is a special area in Decorah, Iowa, United States. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. This historic district includes seven blocks of homes and the city's oldest park. It sits on a high hill in the middle of Decorah.
The district has many important buildings and places. These include five churches and three government buildings. One of these is the Winneshiek County Courthouse. There is also a museum, an old brick kiln, and a carriage house. About 36 private homes are part of this district too. The city park square and the river bluff are also important historic sites.
The buildings in this area were built a long time ago. Most were constructed between the 1850s and the early 1900s. Many of them are two stories tall or more. They were built using strong materials like limestone, sandstone, or brick. The Ellsworth-Porter House is a very important building here. It is listed separately on the National Register of Historic Places.
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What is a Historic District?
A historic district is a special area that has been recognized for its important history. It often includes many old buildings, streets, or even parks. These places are protected to help save their unique look and story.
The goal is to keep the area looking much like it did in the past. This helps people remember and learn about history. It also makes sure these special places can be enjoyed for many years.
Exploring Broadway–Phelps Park
The Broadway–Phelps Park Historic District covers about 40 acres. It's like stepping back in time when you walk through it. The district is known for its beautiful old buildings and the lovely Phelps Park.
The area is located on a prominent hill. This gives it a great view of Decorah. It's a mix of homes, public buildings, and green spaces. This blend shows how the city grew over time.
Cool Buildings to See
Many buildings in the district show off different styles from the late 1800s and early 1900s. You can see examples of Victorian architecture. These buildings often have fancy details and unique shapes.
Most of the structures are made from local materials. Limestone, sandstone, and brick were popular choices. These materials give the buildings a strong and lasting appearance. They also tell a story about the resources available when they were built.
- Winneshiek County Courthouse: This is one of the important government buildings. It's where many local decisions are made.
- Churches: Five different churches are part of the district. They show the diverse community that lived here.
- Private Homes: Many of the homes are large and well-preserved. They give a glimpse into how people lived over a century ago.
- Ellsworth-Porter House: This house is so special it has its own listing. It's now a museum where you can learn about the past.
Phelps Park: A Green Oasis
Phelps Park is the oldest park in Decorah. It's a peaceful green space within the historic district. Parks like this were important for communities. They offered a place for people to relax and enjoy nature.
The park adds to the historic feel of the area. It connects the residential streets with a natural setting. It's a great example of how cities planned for both buildings and open spaces.
