The Fort Payne Residential Historic District [†] represents a middle-class residential neighborhood built by Fort Payne's civic and business leaders. The district clearly reflects Fort Payne's two major building periods. The first, 1888 through 1891, was a result of rapid speculation stimulated by the area's rich mineral deposits. The Introduction of hosiery mills in 1909 once again stimulated the community's economic development from 1909 through the 1930s. The building boom of these two distinct periods clearly defines the present character of the historic district.
While most of the buildings in the district are vernacular in design, the district reflects the popular tastes of middle-class domestic architecture during these two periods. From the first period, 1888 through 1891, the Queen Anne style is represented in the district's most monumental residences, including the Rice House. But the most prevalent style from this period is the vernacular Victorian residences which are more restrained in the use of Queen Annedecorative elements. This includes the front-gable roof type and the cross-gable type. The district also has several modest examples of the Stick style. Although scattered throughout the district, buildings from this period are located predominantly near the mountain ridge on Forrest Avenue, Elm Street, and Curry Street.
The district's second period of development, 1909 through 1938, Includes several fine examples of the American Foursquare, which represent the most prominent residences of this period. This Includes the Isbell House and Wolfes House. In keeping with the precedence of simpller, more modest buildings, the most prevalent style during this period is the Craftsman-inspired Bungalow. There are also several modest local Interpretations of Tudor Revival Cottages. The buildings from this period are infilled between earlier buildings but are found in greater numbers on Alabama and Grand Avenues.
There are several architectural decorative features that are prevalent throughout the district. Most all of the buildings are frame, with only six historic brick buildings. Despite the style and period of the building, most all exhibit a prominent front gable or pediment. This is seen in the Queen Anne style buildings, the Foursquares and Bungalows. The use of various shingle types in the gable to create patterns is a popular decorative device in the district. The use of brackets and exposed rafter ends under the overhanging eaves is frequently employed. The use of classical details is another popular decorative element, most notably the use of Doric columns and pediments.
† Adapted from: Steven M. Kay, Cultural Resources Coordinator, Alabama Historical Commission, Fort Payne Residential Historic District, nomination document, 1987, National Register of Historic Places, Washington, D.C.
