Discovering the Heart of Indianapolis: The Old Northside
Nestled just north of downtown Indianapolis, the Old Northside neighborhood is a treasure trove of history and architectural splendor. If you’ve ever meandered down its tree-lined streets, admired its grand Victorian homes, or visited one of its storied parks, you’ve felt the echoes of the past that give this neighborhood its unique charm. The Old Northside is not only a physical reminder of Indianapolis’s formative years—it’s a living testament to resilience, restoration, and community spirit.
Origins: How the Old Northside Began
The land that would become the Old Northside was once a combination of farmland and wooded areas. As Indianapolis expanded after the Civil War, the city’s affluent residents sought to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown while still remaining close to the city’s growing amenities. By the 1870s and 1880s, northward development rapidly transformed the area into a prestigious residential enclave.
The neighborhood’s name, “Old Northside,” reflects its position as one of the first significant neighborhoods north of the original Mile Square—the city’s earliest mapped boundary. The designation “old” came later, as newer suburbs stretched farther away and the neighborhood’s identity became rooted in its history.
Key Historical Milestones
- Luxury by Design (1870s–1900s): The Old Northside’s golden age saw the construction of stately homes, many designed in Queen Anne, Italianate, and Classical Revival styles. Residents included politicians, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders—some of whom helped shape Indiana’s future.
- Decline and Transformation (mid 20th century): Like many urban neighborhoods across America, the Old Northside faced challenges as the city sprawled outward after World War II. Many affluent residents moved to newly built suburbs, and large homes were converted to boarding houses or left vacant.
- Revival and Renewal (1970s–Present): In the 1970s, a new generation recognized the area’s architectural and historic significance. Through historic preservation efforts and neighborhood organization, residents worked tirelessly to restore homes, revive community spaces, and attract new neighbors who appreciated the area’s heritage.
Notable Landmarks and Buildings
The Old Northside’s historic fabric is woven into its streets and structures—each has a story to tell. Among the most significant:
- Morris-Butler House (1204 North Park Avenue): This stunning Second Empire mansion, built in 1864, stands as a museum today, offering guided tours that showcase Victorian life in Indianapolis.
- President Benjamin Harrison Home (1230 North Delaware Street): Perhaps the neighborhood’s most famous residence, this Italianate house was home to the 23rd President of the United States. It’s now a national historic landmark, preserving original furnishings and hosting public events year-round.
- All Saints Episcopal Church (1559 Central Avenue): With its striking facade and beautiful stained glass, this church has been a spiritual and community anchor since the 19th century.
- Indiana Landmarks Center (1201 Central Ave): Housed in the former Central Avenue United Methodist Church, this building is now headquarters for Indiana Landmarks, the largest statewide preservation organization in the U.S.
Beyond landmark properties, almost every street tells its own tale. North Delaware and North Park avenues are lined with lovingly restored Victorian homes. A walk along East 13th Street reveals a vibrant mix of architecture, from elaborate mansions to cozy cottages.
Parks and Green Spaces: The Neighborhood’s Lungs
- Campbell Park (1230 Highland Avenue): Once a site for neighborhood festivals and gatherings, this green space is a favorite for families and dog walkers alike. The park is a symbol of the community’s commitment to public spaces—restored and cherished through volunteer efforts.
- The Cultural Trail: This world-class urban bike and pedestrian path skirts the edge of the Old Northside, connecting it to downtown attractions and other historic neighborhoods. Residents love its easy access for commuting, recreating, or just taking in the city’s sights.
Institutions and Community Anchors
The Old Northside is home to more than historic houses. The neighborhood hosts several vital institutions:
- Indiana Landmarks: Beyond its architectural headquarters, the organization is the force behind many successful restoration projects.
- Heritage Place: Offering programs for older adults in the neighborhood and beyond, Heritage Place is beloved for its mission of fostering dignity and independence.
- Herron High School (110 East 16th Street): Located just north of the neighborhood, Herron High stands in what was once the historic headquarters of the Herron Art Institute. The high school is nationally recognized for its rigorous, arts-centered curriculum, making it a magnet for families.
Evolution and Enduring Spirit
Today’s Old Northside is a blend of old and new—a vibrant reflection of Indianapolis’s evolving identity. Annual home tours bring history buffs from across the Midwest to see inside meticulously restored residences. Community events, from summer porch parties to neighborhood cleanups, foster a tight-knit spirit.
The neighborhood is now a model for historic preservation, showing other communities the value of honoring the past while embracing change. While the restoration process continues—some homes are being lovingly refurbished as you read this—the Old Northside’s reputation as a warm, welcoming, and eclectic neighborhood is firmly established.
A Place Unlike Any Other
What makes the Old Northside special isn’t just the intricate woodwork of a staircase, the sway of century-old trees, or even the statuesque charm of its mansions. It’s the people—the generations of residents who have invested time, love, and sweat into making this neighborhood not just a living snapshot of history, but a thriving home and a source of pride for Indianapolis.
Stroll down Central Avenue at sunset, attend a garden party on New Jersey Street, or tour the homes during December’s annual candlelight gathering. You’ll find that the Old Northside is not simply somewhere you visit; it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.
A cornerstone of Indianapolis’s past and a beacon for its future, the Old Northside endures as a neighborhood where history, beauty, and community spirit live side by side—just as they always have.