Herron-Morton Place Historic District | Indianapolis

Herron–Morton Place Historic District is one of Indianapolis’s most significant and well-preserved historic neighborhoods, located just north of downtown Indianapolis. It is celebrated for its rich historical roots, architectural diversity, cultural significance, and vibrant community life, making it a cornerstone of the city’s heritage and urban revitalization efforts.

Geographic Location and Boundaries

The district covers roughly 60 city blocks, bounded approximately by 16th Street to the north, 22nd Street to the south, Pennsylvania Street on the west, and Central Avenue on the east. This area sits about two miles north of the iconic Soldiers and Sailors Monument, placing it within easy reach of downtown Indianapolis’s business and cultural districts.

Historical Background

Herron–Morton Place has a layered and dynamic history stretching back to the early 19th century. Originally, the land was part of a 160-acre tract patented in 1822 by Thomas O’Neal. For decades, it was largely rural and was known locally as Henderson’s Grove, a popular picnic and leisure spot. During the Civil War era, this area became Camp Morton, a significant Union prisoner-of-war camp holding thousands of Confederate soldiers.

After the war, the land’s purpose shifted once again when the Indiana State Fair relocated here for several years. When the fairgrounds moved north to 38th Street in 1890, local investors subdivided the area into residential lots, branding it “Morton Place.” The neighborhood evolved steadily, and in honor of John Herron-a local philanthropist whose estate helped establish the John Herron Art Institute (now part of the Indianapolis Museum of Art)-the district was later renamed Herron–Morton Place.

Architectural Character and Styles

Herron–Morton Place boasts an extraordinary range of architectural styles that reflect the neighborhood’s growth and changing tastes from the late 19th through the early 20th centuries. The district contains over 500 contributing buildings, primarily residential, including many beautifully restored single-family homes.

Key architectural styles present include:

Classical Revival: Characterized by symmetrical facades, columns, and pediments, these homes reflect a formal and grand aesthetic popular in the early 1900s.

Queen Anne: Recognizable for their asymmetry, textured surfaces, decorative woodwork, and varied rooflines, Queen Anne houses add a whimsical, picturesque quality.

Tudor Revival: Featuring steeply pitched roofs, half-timbering, and leaded glass windows, these homes evoke medieval English architecture.

Italian Renaissance Revival: Exemplified by the Willard and Josephine Hubbard House, one of the neighborhood’s landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing elegant arches, classical columns, and ornate detailing.

The diversity and high quality of architecture contribute to Herron–Morton Place’s designation as a National Register Historic District and underscore its importance as a preserved urban neighborhood.

Cultural and Artistic Legacy

Herron–Morton Place has long been a center for the arts in Indianapolis. The neighborhood was home to prominent Indiana artists, including members of the Hoosier Group, such as T.C. Steele and William Forsyth, who taught and inspired many local artists here in the late 19th century.

The establishment of the John Herron Art Institute in 1895 cemented the area’s role as a cultural hub. Today, the neighborhood maintains a lively arts scene, highlighted annually by the Talbot Street Art Fair, one of the oldest and most respected art fairs in the nation. This event showcases local and national artists, reinforcing Herron–Morton Place’s reputation as an artistic and creative enclave.

LGBTQ+ History and Community

Herron–Morton Place holds a special place in the history of Indianapolis’s LGBTQ+ community. Throughout much of the 20th century, the neighborhood was known as a welcoming sanctuary during times of social exclusion and discrimination. It offered safety, community, and cultural vibrancy for LGBTQ+ residents. This legacy is commemorated by the neighborhood’s inclusive spirit, historical markers, and ongoing events that honor diversity and promote equality.

Community Life and Events

The neighborhood association plays an active role in fostering a strong sense of community. Popular annual events include:

Progressive Dinner: A neighborhood tradition where residents host dinner courses in different homes, encouraging socializing and community bonding.

Pizza in the Park: A fun gathering held on Halloween, drawing families and neighbors for food and festivities.

Herron–Morton Place is also home to intimate theaters such as Footlite and Epilogue, which present local plays and cultural programming, enriching the community’s cultural offerings.

Preservation and Revitalization

Over the past several decades, Herron–Morton Place has undergone significant revitalization, with many historic homes restored and renovated. The neighborhood benefits from strong preservation efforts by residents, local organizations, and the city of Indianapolis. The result is a vibrant, livable community that respects its past while welcoming new residents and businesses.

Architectural and Historical Tours

Visitors and residents can engage with the neighborhood’s history through guided walking tours. These tours, often organized by preservation groups like Indiana Landmarks, provide in-depth stories behind landmark buildings, notable residents, and significant historic events connected to the district. Highlights often include the former Camp Morton site, architecturally notable homes, and important cultural landmarks.

Summary

Herron–Morton Place Historic District stands as a remarkable example of Indianapolis’s architectural, cultural, and social history. Its broad array of historic homes reflects key American architectural movements, while its past as a Civil War site, an arts enclave, and a refuge for marginalized communities adds layers of richness to its identity.

The neighborhood continues to thrive today as a vibrant, diverse, and engaged community, balancing historic preservation with modern urban living. Herron–Morton Place invites exploration by history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, cultural seekers, and anyone interested in experiencing one of Indianapolis’s most treasured historic neighborhoods.