Royal Neighbors of America National Home Historic District

The Royal Neighbors National Home spreads across a large property along Rockingham Road, displaying Georgian Revival architecture with views toward the Mississippi River. The grounds contain multiple structures built at different times, with some original to the foundation and others added later as the organization expanded.

The founding of this home in 1931 marked an important moment for women seeking security through mutual support. Over the following decades, the model evolved to meet changing needs of those it served.

The district marks a turning point for women's financial security, as it housed one of the first mutual aid organizations that offered life insurance designed specifically for women. Walking through the grounds today, you can sense how this place provided both protection and independence to its residents.

The grounds are easy to explore on foot, and you can appreciate the buildings from the outside. The best time to visit is during pleasant weather, when you can fully enjoy the layout and the river views.

Residents once had to transfer their wealth to the organization in exchange for lifelong care, an arrangement that bound their economic security to the institution. A significant policy shift in 1996 introduced rental options that gave residents greater control over their assets.