Southside Historic District

The Southside Historic District in Racine, Wisconsin, is a captivating journey through time, where architectural splendor meets rich history. This prestigious neighborhood, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, boasts over 500 contributing structures that showcase a variety of architectural styles, each telling its own story of the past.

Architectural Marvels of the Southside

The district is a treasure trove of architectural styles spanning from 1842 to 1924. Among the earliest is the William and Eliza Hunt house, a Greek Revival masterpiece with its iconic Ionic columns. Originally built in the 1840s, this house has been moved multiple times, reflecting its significant historical value. Another Greek Revival gem is the Eli R. Cooley House, designed by Lucas Bradley, which stands like a Greek temple with its elegant wings.

Venturing further, the Chauncey Hall House, constructed in 1849, is one of Wisconsin's earliest Gothic Revival houses. Built with bricks traded for tailor-made suits, this house is a testament to the unique barter systems of the past. Meanwhile, the Henry S. Durand house, with its Italianate villa style, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of a man involved in banking, insurance, and city planning.

Stories Behind the Walls

Each building in the Southside Historic District has a story to tell. The Wallis House, for instance, was initially built by a lumber merchant and later became the home of the president of the Case Plow Works. Its Greek Revival style speaks volumes about the wealth and taste of its successive owners. Similarly, the Daniel Olin House, designed by Lucas Bradley, was home to a railroad executive and later, a mayor of Racine.

The Elmendorf House, with its Italianate style, was home to a professor of intellectual philosophy and English literature at Racine College. Its later owners, the Hurlburts, contributed to the city's industrial growth, making wagon hardware. Such stories are woven into the very fabric of the district, making each visit a lesson in local history.

The Charm of Queen Anne and Gothic Revival

The district's Queen Anne-style homes, like the Margaret Shurr Cottage, with its delicate veranda and lattice-work bargeboard, offer a charming contrast to the more imposing structures. The Theresa and Joseph Miller House stands out with its cream brick walls and round corner tower, a tribute to Joseph's success in the shoe industry and his contributions during the Civil War.

Gothic Revival is also well represented by the First Baptist Church, built in 1876, with its angled square corner tower and rose window. This church is not just a place of worship but a landmark that adds to the district's architectural diversity.

Innovative Designs and Famous Architects

The Southside Historic District is not only about historical styles but also about innovation. The Thomas P. Hardy House, designed by the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright, is a Prairie School-style house that cascades down a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. This unique design showcases Wright's genius and adds a modern touch to the historic district.

Another innovative design is the Samuel Curtis Johnson House, a Picturesque Gothic cottage with steep roofs and bargeboards. Designed by the founder of S. C. Johnson & Son, this house represents the merging of personal creativity with professional success.

A Walk Through History

Walking through the Southside Historic District is like stepping back in time. The streets are lined with homes that whisper stories of their former inhabitants, from influential bankers and industrialists to professors and politicians. The district is a living museum, where each building is a piece of history preserved in time.

The district's charm lies not only in its architecture but also in the stories of the people who lived and thrived here. Their contributions to Racine's development are immortalized in the bricks and mortar of these magnificent structures.

Conclusion

The Southside Historic District is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply the beauty of a well-preserved neighborhood. Its diverse styles and rich stories make it a captivating destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a history buff, the Southside Historic District offers a unique glimpse into Racine's past, making it an unforgettable experience.