Livingston Avenue Historic District facts for kids
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Livingston Avenue Historic District
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 Location in Middlesex County, New Jersey
Location in New Jersey
Location in the United States
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| Location | Area surrounding Livingston Avenue between Hale and Morris Streets New Brunswick, New Jersey |
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| Area | 32 acres (13 ha) |
| Architect | Louis H. Giele; George K. Parsell |
| Architectural style | Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Classical Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 96000072 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | February 16, 1996 |
The Livingston Avenue Historic District is a special area in New Brunswick, New Jersey. It's like a time capsule! This district is full of old buildings and places that are important to history. It stretches along Livingston Avenue, between Hale and Morris Streets.
This area was officially recognized as a historic district on February 16, 1996. It's important because of its amazing buildings, the stories of people who lived there, and how the city grew. The district shows us what life was like between 1870 and 1929. It includes 58 important buildings and 2 special sites, like the Willow Grove Cemetery and the New Brunswick Free Public Library.
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Discovering Historic Buildings on Livingston Avenue
The Livingston Avenue Historic District is home to many buildings that tell a story. These buildings show off different styles of architecture from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Walking through this area is like taking a trip back in time!
What Makes a Building Historic?
Buildings in a historic district are often called "contributing buildings." This means they help show the history and character of the area. They usually look much like they did when they were first built. The Livingston Avenue district has 58 of these special buildings.
Famous Spots in the District
Some places here are especially well-known. The Willow Grove Cemetery is one of the two contributing sites. It is a very old cemetery where many important people from New Brunswick's past are buried. Another key spot is the Henry Guest House, which is a historic home. The New Brunswick Free Public Library is also part of this district. It has been a center for learning and community for a long time.
Architectural Styles You Can See
The buildings in the Livingston Avenue Historic District show off several cool architectural styles. These styles were popular during the time the district was developing. Each style has its own unique look and features.
Queen Anne Style Homes
Many homes in the district are built in the Queen Anne style. This style was popular in the late 1800s. Queen Anne houses often have:
- Turrets (small towers)
- Decorative shingles
- Bay windows
- Wrap-around porches
- Different textures and colors on their outside walls
Colonial Revival and Classical Revival Styles
You can also find buildings in the Colonial Revival style. This style became popular around the turn of the 20th century. It looked back to the simpler, more formal designs of early American homes. Classical Revival buildings also draw inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman architecture, often featuring grand columns and symmetrical designs.
Other Notable Styles
Some buildings, like the Roosevelt Intermediate School, show the Neo-Classical Revival style. This is a grand style with big columns and a formal look. The Ukrainian Catholic Church stands out with its Richardsonian Romanesque style. This style uses heavy stone, round arches, and often has a very strong, solid appearance.
Why This District Matters
The Livingston Avenue Historic District is important for several reasons. It helps us understand how New Brunswick grew and changed over time. It also preserves beautiful old buildings that show us the art and skill of past architects.
A Look at Social History
By looking at the homes and public buildings, we can learn about the people who lived and worked here. It tells us about their lives, their communities, and how they used their spaces. This district helps us connect with the past and understand the history of New Brunswick.
Understanding Urban Growth
The district also shows us how cities like New Brunswick developed. It highlights a period when the city was growing and new neighborhoods were being built. Studying these areas helps us learn about city planning and how communities form.
Images for kids
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John B. Drury House, Victorian style
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Roosevelt Intermediate School, Neo-Classical Revival style
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Ukrainian Catholic Church, Richardsonian Romanesque style
