Winters Lane Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Winters Lane Historic District
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Streetscape in Winters Lane Historic District, December 2009
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 Location in Maryland
Location in the United States
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| Location | Winters Ln. between Frederick Rd. & Baltimore National Pike., Catonsville, Maryland |
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| Area | 49 acres (20 ha) |
| Built | 1867 |
| Architect | Davis, Frank E. |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival, Queen Anne, et al. |
| NRHP reference No. | 07001285 |
| Added to NRHP | December 21, 2007 |
The Winters Lane Historic District is a special area in Catonsville, Maryland. It's called a historic district because it has many old buildings that tell an important story. This neighborhood was home to an African-American community that grew between 1867 and the mid-1940s.
Winters Lane is found between Frederick Road and the Baltimore National Pike. Most of the buildings here are homes, but there are also some shops, community centers, and churches. In total, the district has 155 properties. These include 141 homes, two old schools, three business buildings, three social clubs, and five churches or church-related buildings.
This historic district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. This means it's recognized as a very important place in American history.
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What is a Historic District?
A historic district is like a special neighborhood where buildings and places are kept safe because they are old and important. They show us how people lived in the past. The Winters Lane Historic District helps us remember the history of an African-American community in Maryland.
Why is Winters Lane Special?
Winters Lane is special because it was one of the first places where African Americans could own land and build their own community after the American Civil War. It was a place where families could live, work, and worship together. The buildings here show how the community grew over many years.
How Did the Community Start?
The community began to form around 1867. This was a time of big changes in the United States, especially for African Americans. Owning land and building homes was a huge step towards freedom and independence. The people of Winters Lane created a strong and lasting neighborhood.
Architecture in the District
The buildings in Winters Lane show different styles of architecture from the past. You can see homes built in the Gothic Revival style and the Queen Anne style. These styles were popular when the neighborhood was growing.
What are These Styles Like?
- Gothic Revival: This style often has pointed arches, steep roofs, and tall windows. It looks a bit like old castles or churches.
- Queen Anne: Homes in this style often have towers, turrets, decorative shingles, and wrap-around porches. They look very detailed and unique.
These different styles make the neighborhood interesting to look at and help tell its long history.
Important Buildings and Places
The Winters Lane Historic District isn't just about homes. It also includes other important buildings that were central to the community's life.
Schools and Learning
The district had two former schools. These schools were very important because they provided education for the children in the community. Education was a key part of building a strong future.
Churches and Faith
There are five churches or church-related buildings in the district. Churches were often the heart of African-American communities. They were places for worship, but also for social gatherings, community meetings, and support.
Social Clubs and Businesses
The district also includes three commercial buildings and three social clubs. These places were where people could shop, meet friends, and enjoy community events. They helped the neighborhood feel lively and connected.
Winters Lane Today
Today, the Winters Lane Historic District continues to be a living community. It stands as a reminder of the strength and spirit of the people who built it. By preserving these buildings, we help future generations understand this important part of American history.
