Avery Street Historic District photo
ParkWest Virginia, US

Avery Street Historic District

Step back in time at Parkersburg's Avery Street Historic District, a captivating showcase of late 19th and early 20th-century American architecture.

About

Step back in time at Parkersburg's Avery Street Historic District, a captivating showcase of late 19th and early 20th-century American architecture. This primarily residential area, once the city's first "suburb," invites visitors to wander its tree-lined streets and admire a rich tapestry of historical building styles that tell the story of Parkersburg's boom era. It's a living museum where the past is meticulously preserved, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the prominent families who shaped the city.

The district is renowned for its diverse architectural landscape, featuring no less than 12 distinct historic styles. As you explore, you'll encounter grand examples of Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Italianate, and Gothic Revival homes, each displaying unique craftsmanship and character. Special highlights include the highly ornamented Eastlake/Carpenter Gothic style House at 10th and Avery Streets, and the historic Civil War Hospital at 402 Avery Street, a Federal-style brick home dating back to 1843.

Visiting the Avery Street Historic District is more than just a walk; it's an immersive experience into a bygone era of elegance and prosperity. The creativity of ideas and tastes evident in the buildings, often blending elements from different styles, makes each structure a point of interest. It's an ideal destination for those seeking architectural inspiration, a peaceful stroll through history, or simply to appreciate the enduring beauty of historic American homes. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.

The Avery Street Historic District emerged as Parkersburg's first "suburban" development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, playing a crucial role in the city's growth. The period between 1900 and 1910 marked a significant growth spurt for the district, with much of its current built environment taking shape during this decade. U.S. Senator Johnson N. Camden, a prominent figure from 1826-1908, owned most of the land that now constitutes the district. The district was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, recognizing its significant architectural and historical contributions. The district's development coincided with Parkersburg's rise as a key industrial and transportation hub, particularly thriving during the late 19th-century oil boom. This prosperity allowed leading citizens, including bankers, businessmen, and political figures, to construct the elaborate homes seen today. The area is a testament to the city's rich architectural legacy, featuring residences designed by notable local architects of the period.

What to do here

Take a self-guided walking tour, appreciating the well-preserved structures and their unique historical elements. Look for intricate details like turrets, stained-glass windows, ornate fireplaces, and elaborate woodwork on the homes.

Seasonal info

Fall: Enjoy vibrant autumn leaves, enhancing photographic opportunities.

Spring: The blooming flowers and gardens in the neighborhood can add to the aesthetic appeal of a stroll.

Winter: While possibly less colorful, a fresh snowfall could offer a picturesque, quiet experience.

Accessibility

The district primarily consists of city streets and sidewalks. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for walking. As a historic district with older homes, specific accessibility features for individual buildings may vary.

Don't miss

1

Architectural Diversity

Explore the 12 distinctive architectural styles present, including Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Italianate, and Gothic Revival.

2

House at 10th and Avery Streets

Admire this highly ornamented Eastlake/Carpenter Gothic style home, a standout example of intricate sawn woodwork.

3

Civil War Hospital (402 Avery Street)

Visit the two-story Federal-style brick home built in 1843, which served as one of the few standing Civil War hospitals in the area.

4

Parkersburg Women's Club

A separately listed contributing building within the district.

Wildlife you might spot

12

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Good to know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes

The best way to experience the district is on foot, so be prepared for a leisurely stroll.

Bring a camera

The diverse and well-preserved architecture provides excellent photographic opportunities.

Visit during daylight hours

This allows for the best viewing of architectural details and ensures a safe, enjoyable experience.

Explore side streets

While Avery Street is central, many contributing buildings are on adjacent streets, offering more architectural discoveries.

Look for historical markers

Some pivotal buildings may have plaques providing more context about their history and significance.

Consider combining your visit

The Avery Street Historic District is located east of the Julia-Ann Square Historic District, West Virginia's largest and oldest historic district, offering an even broader historical exploration.

Frequently asked questions

The Avery Street Historic District is home to a remarkable array of 12 distinctive historic architectural styles. Visitors can admire examples of National Style, Gothic Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, Romanesque, Folk Victorian, Classical Revival, Colonial Revival, Tudor/Jacobean Revival, Bungaloid-Craftsman-Prairie, International Style, and Victorian Eclectic architecture.
While specific brochures for Avery Street may not always be readily available, visitors can explore the district on a self-guided walking tour at their own pace. The district's rich visual appeal and the presence of many historically significant buildings make it easy to appreciate the area's heritage.
The Avery Street Historic District was established as Parkersburg's first "suburb" in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with significant development occurring between 1900 and 1910. It was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 15, 1986.

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