Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District

Step into a world where history and charm intertwine seamlessly at the Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District in Bend, Oregon. This enchanting district, adjacent to the serene Drake Park and the vibrant historic downtown area, offers a unique glimpse into the early development of Bend. With its diverse architectural styles and lush natural surroundings, the Drake Park neighborhood is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, architecture buffs, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of a well-preserved historic district.

The Heart of Bend

The Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District is nestled in the heart of Bend, encompassing 17 city blocks and 83 residential lots. The district is bordered by Riverside Boulevard on the north and west, Tumalo Avenue on the south, Broadway Street on the southeast, and Franklin Avenue on the northeast corner. This prime location places visitors within easy reach of Bend's bustling downtown business district, making it a convenient and attractive destination.

As you wander through the neighborhood, you'll notice the gentle slope of the land towards the west, leading to the picturesque Deschutes River, which winds its way through Drake Park. The district's elevation of 3,623 feet above sea level provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the majestic Cascade Mountain peaks. Towering Ponderosa Pine trees dot the area, adding to its natural beauty, while local basalt fieldstone is used in many retaining walls and other landscape elements, giving the neighborhood a distinctive character.

A Rich Historical Tapestry

The history of the Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District dates back to 1910 when Alexander M. Drake, the owner of the Pilot Butte Development Company, subdivided the land into residential lots. The area's proximity to the Deschutes River and the newly established Drake Park made it highly desirable, and lots initially sold for $100 to $250—a modest sum by today's standards but a significant investment at the time.

In 1921, the city of Bend purchased 11 acres along the river to create Drake Park, further enhancing the neighborhood's appeal. The park quickly became a central gathering place for residents, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The same year, State Street became the third street in Bend to be paved, reflecting the area's growing importance and development.

The Drake Park neighborhood soon became the preferred residence for Bend's most prominent businessmen and civic leaders. The district's residents included owners and managers of the city's large lumber mills, downtown business owners, hotel proprietors, and professionals from various fields. Many of Bend's mayors, city council members, and Deschutes County commissioners also called the neighborhood home, contributing to the city's growth and development.

An Architectural Wonderland

One of the most captivating aspects of the Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District is its diverse and well-preserved architecture. The district boasts 110 contributing structures on 83 residential lots, with an impressive array of architectural styles that reflect the area's cultural and historical significance. Eighty-one percent of the homes and sixty-five percent of the non-residential structures contribute to the district's historic value, showcasing the neighborhood's architectural integrity.

Most of the homes built between 1910 and 1919 are American Craftsman style, characterized by their handcrafted details and emphasis on natural materials. In the early 1920s, American Colonial style homes began to appear, though Craftsman-style homes remained popular. By the mid-1920s, the neighborhood saw the introduction of Tudor, English Cottage, Cape Cod, Dutch Colonial, and Spanish Villa designs, adding to its architectural diversity.

The 1930s saw a slowdown in construction, but the homes built during this period reflected a variety of tastes and styles. In the 1940s, more modern designs became favored, and the last two historic homes, built in the 1950s, are a California Ranch style and a post-war modern tract house. Today, the neighborhood remains relatively stable, retaining its architectural charm and historical significance.

Notable Homes and Landmarks

The Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District is home to several notable houses, including four that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The George Palmer and Dorothy Binney Putnam House, built in 1911, is an American Craftsman style home located on Congress Street. The Thomas McCann House, a Georgian Revival style home designed by prominent Portland architect David C. Lewis, was built in 1915 on Congress Street. The Robert D. Moore House, a Colonial Revival style home, was constructed in 1921, also on Congress Street. The Benjamin Hamilton House, a one-story Craftsman-style bungalow, was built in 1923 on State Street.

Other distinguished homes in the district include the John and Jennie Keyes House, a two-story Craftsman style home designed by Bend's most prominent architect of the time, J. W. Dimick, and built in 1913 on Riverside Boulevard. The James and Ruth Overturf House, another Craftsman style bungalow, was built in 1916 on Congress Street and carefully restored to its original design in 2002. The Samuel Blakely House, a restored Craftsman bungalow, was built in 1919 on Congress Street. Finally, the Fredrick and Myrtle Lieuallen House, a beautiful Tudor-style home, was constructed in 1926 on Riverside Boulevard.

In conclusion, the Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a picturesque and tranquil place to explore, the Drake Park neighborhood is sure to enchant and inspire. Its rich historical tapestry, diverse architectural styles, and stunning natural surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Bend, Oregon.