Edgewater Gallery on the Green | Middlebury

The Watertown Downtown Historic District is a designated area in Watertown, South Dakota, preserving a collection of historically significant structures.

This district encompasses a concentrated section of the city's commercial core, featuring buildings that represent architectural and economic development from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Visual Characteristics

Buildings within the district are primarily constructed from brick and stone, exhibiting architectural styles such as Italianate, Queen Anne, and Commercial style. Facades often feature decorative cornices, large display windows at street level, and multi-story layouts. Colors range from natural brick tones to painted finishes, with varying degrees of architectural ornamentation.

Location & Access Logistics

The district is centered around Broadway Avenue, extending several blocks in each direction. It is located approximately 0.5km West of the geographical center of Watertown. Parking is available on-street, with time restrictions, and in several public lots adjacent to the main commercial streets. Public transport options are limited; the local bus route 2 services Broadway Avenue at regular intervals.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The district's origin is tied to Watertown's establishment as a railroad town in the late 1870s. The majority of the buildings were constructed between 1880 and 1930, serving as the primary commercial and civic hub for the growing community. Architects and builders of the era, often local, designed structures to accommodate retail, professional services, and administrative functions.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the varied architectural styles of the period. Walking tours focusing on the district's history are available through local historical societies. Several businesses within the district offer retail shopping and dining experiences.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within most public buildings and some retail establishments. Shade is provided by awnings and street trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent throughout the district. Food vendors and restaurants are located within the district's boundaries.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the morning hours (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) offer favorable lighting on East-facing facades, while late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) is best for West-facing facades. The months of May through October provide the most comfortable weather for walking and exploring the district.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical oddity is the presence of several buildings constructed with locally quarried granite, showcasing the region's geological resources. A "secret" tip for visitors is to look for the original building dates inscribed above many of the storefronts, offering a direct connection to the construction era.

Nearby Landmarks

• Codington County Courthouse - 0.3km Northwest
• Lake Kampeska - 2.5km Southwest
• Babcock Park - 1.8km South
• Redlin Art Center - 3.1km East