West Union Commercial Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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West Union Commercial Historic District
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Location | Roughly bounded by N. and S. Vine, Main, Walnut, and Plum Streets, West Union, Iowa |
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Area | 17 acres (6.9 ha) |
Architectural style | Late Victorian Late 19th and 20th Century Revivals |
NRHP reference No. | 15000191 |
Added to NRHP | May 4, 2015 |
The West Union Commercial Historic District is a special area in West Union, Iowa, recognized for its history. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2015. This means it's an important place to protect because of its past.
When it was listed, the district had 56 important features. These included 38 buildings that helped tell its story. There was also one special structure and 17 other buildings.
West Union started in 1850. Shops and businesses opened around the town square that same year. This square was the heart of the community. It was used for county government and many fun social events. Wide streets and sidewalks made it easy for people to shop and gather.
What Makes This District Special?
The buildings in this historic area have been home to many things. They housed different shops and businesses. Some were used for government work, and others were churches. A few homes in the district are also connected to these churches.
Building Styles and Materials
Most buildings in the district are one or two stories tall. A few are three stories high. They are mostly built from brick. Many buildings show styles from the Victorian era. These include Italianate, Queen Anne, Neoclassical, and Colonial Revival styles. Some buildings also show the Commercial style.
While some buildings were designed by famous architects, most designers are unknown. The city's water tower is a special structure that adds to the district's history.
Famous Buildings in the District
Several buildings in the district are so important they are listed on the National Register of Historic Places by themselves. These include:
- The First Baptist Church, built in 1867.
- The Hobson Block, built in 1885.
- The Maple View Sanitarium, built in 1903.
- The Fayette County Courthouse, built in 1923.
These buildings help us understand the history and growth of West Union.