Washington Park Historic District

Washington Park Historic District is a neighborhood north of downtown Indianapolis containing around 110 buildings positioned between Pennsylvania Street and Central Avenue. The structures date mainly from the late 1800s and early 1900s, displaying various architectural styles from that era.

The district took shape in the late 1800s as wealthy residents discovered it as a premier residential area. It gained recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008 to protect these important architectural examples from that era.

The neighborhood drew wealthy professionals during the 1920s and 1930s, including lawyers and business owners who built their homes here. The houses and their arrangement show how important this area was for the city's upper class at that time.

The area spreads mainly between 40th and 43rd Street, with Washington Boulevard running through the middle from north to south. Visitors can walk through the streets and view the houses from the outside without any special arrangements needed.

The Hartley House stands out for its design based on the French Château de Malmaison, created by architect William Earl Russ. This surprising French inspiration in Indianapolis reflects the ambitious architectural ideas of the wealthy residents of that era.

Location: Indiana

GPS coordinates: 39.83083,-86.15222

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:47