 The Belles of Belleville are rich in architectural diversity: the
whisper of days gone by. They are the last remains of the historical
America to which our ancestors gave birth. They speak to us of their
pride in common sense materials and building methods meant to stand the
test of time. They have been welcoming visitors, family, and friends
for almost 200 years.There are the German Folk houses built as early
as the 1830’s. Greek Revival is popular by 1850. Gothic Revival, used
for churches, civic buildings, and, in a limited degree, for personal
dwellings, is seen from 1870-1900. The Italianate Style is very popular
from 1850-1890.
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During this time period, other well-known
styles emerge: the Mansard/Second Empire style, the Stick style and the
Queen Ann style. In addition, there is the Shingle style, Homestead,
Brick Flats, Row Houses, and Worker’s Cottages. By the 1890’s, we see
Colonial Revival and Neo-Classical styles. 1900 brings the Prairie style
and the American Foursquare. The Craftsman/Bungalow and the Tudor
Revival style are popular from 1900-1940. All of these Belles are here
in Belleville.
The Belles are in various states of maintenance and repair. Some have
experienced a total restoration with care given to every detail. Other
Belles lay sleeping, waiting for this same attention. |
Our National Register District is one of
the largest districts of its kind in the state of Illinois, boasting
over 700 structures. The Department of Interior has placed Belleville’s
Downtown area on the National Register of Historic Places. “The Old
Belleville District,” The Hexenbuckel District,” and “The Oakland
District” are our three locally zoned historical districts.
These Belles that remain are a part of American history that can be
touched, seen, appreciated, and utilized by us today. We work toward
having their whispers heard though the echoes of time.
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