The East Side Neighborhood Historic District [†] is a significant residential area located in Great Falls, Cascade County, Montana.
This District was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places on April 19, 2016. Its core area encompasses two platted blocks in a historic residential neighborhood, primarily situated along Central Avenue and 1st Avenue North, between 15th and 16th Streets.
Period of Significance and Resources
The defined Period of Significance is 1890–1934. The construction of the majority of the homes occurred during a major economic and population growth period in the city, specifically between the 1910s and 1920s. In total, the district contains 55 resources, which are categorized as 36 contributing buildings and 19 noncontributing buildings/resources.
Architectural Significance (Criterion C)
The district is architecturally significant. The streetscape is noted for its architectural cohesion, primarily composed of single-family residences. The predominant styles are the Craftsman/Bungalow and Prairie School, often mixed with some examples of Tudor Revival and various vernacular styles. These middle-class homes were frequently built from commercially-available plans and typically feature single-story, front-gable forms, prominent porches, and distinguishing Craftsman or Prairie-style architectural details.
Significance
The district is also significant in the areas of Community Planning and Development. It serves as a strong, tangible example of the residential building boom that accompanied the expansion of Great Falls outward from its main central core. This pattern of development was common for the city from the early 1900s through the 1950s. The nearby presence of Central High School (now the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art) also encouraged the area's development.
Integrity
Overall, the buildings within the district maintain a high degree of historic integrity, with most of the houses retaining their original footprint and form. The most common alteration, which is considered historic, is the enclosure of what were originally open front porches.
† Adapted from: Mark Hufstetler, Architectural Historian, East Side Neighborhood Historic District, nomination document, 2014, National Register of Historic Places, Washington, D.C.
Street Names
15th Street North • 15th Street South • 16th Street North • 16th Street South • 1st Avenue • Central Avenue