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Haight Village
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Haight Village National Register Historic District - Rockford, IL
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Sunday, September 5, 2010
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Rockford's only residential district listed on the National Register
Thursday, June 15, 2006
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When the America in Bloom judges visited Rockford last summer they made three stops in one neighborhood. In Haight Village they visited the Erlander Swedish Home Museum, The Natural Land Institute and then toured the entire fourteen square block district which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The three stops impressed them and helped Rockford win high rankings in historic preservation. Preserving history and making good impressions go far beyond the competition for national awards. It is an everyday occurrence in this neighborhood located just several blocks from the river and downtown.
In the 1830s the area was a favorite spot for grazing horses on the flat savannah amongst the large white oaks. Many of the grand old oaks remain in addition to the tall and fragrant catalpas that canopy the neighborhood, creating an inner-city refuge for many interesting birdlife. Bird songs and church bells fill the air throughout the day. Today one will rarely see a horse unless it is pulling a buggy for a historic tourism event. Dog walking is more common along with bicycling, leisurely strolls and front yard chats.
On any given day visitors come to take in exterior views of the 100 homes, 4 churches, the old Watch Factory and old Rockford Central High School, now the Board of Education. Most of the structures are between 100 - 150 years old representing good examples of the periods. Home styles include 1840s Greek and Gothic Revivals; 1850-60s Italianates; 1880-90s Victorian Gothics and Queen Annes; 1900s Classical Revival Prairie and a 1950 Lustron. The 14 blocks form a wonderful quilt of architectural intrigue mixed with an array of unique urban gardens.
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