Chili–West Historic District

The Chili-West Historic District is a neighborhood in Rochester containing around 500 residential buildings spread across roughly 72 acres, with structures spanning multiple architectural periods. The former St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church complex sits within the district boundaries and serves as a focal point within this residential landscape.

The neighborhood grew between the 1870s and 1935 as Rochester's industrial base expanded rapidly and drew workers seeking employment. Local builders constructed homes in varying styles to accommodate factory workers and middle-class residents seeking housing during this growth period.

The neighborhood displays a range of building styles from Queen Anne to American Craftsman, reflecting the tastes of different generations who shaped the area. Walking through, you notice how homes and their details tell stories of the people who lived here and how they built their lives.

The neighborhood is best explored on foot, allowing you to take in the variety of house types at a leisurely pace throughout the blocks. Taking time to notice the details of individual buildings helps you appreciate the craftsmanship and see the differences between the various architectural styles.

A handful of prolific builders shaped much of this neighborhood, with figures like A.B. Jennings and Otis Dryer leaving their mark on hundreds of homes that define the area. Their work created a sense of connection across the district despite the variety in styles and construction dates.