Aurora is an historic city in Illinois. It was first settled in 1834; incorporated as a village in 1845 and then became a city in 1857. With a population of over 200,000 it is the second largest city in Illinois behind Chicago.
Aurora has five designated historic districts. They are comprised of the Near Eastside Historic District, Tanner Historic District, Riddle Highlands Historic District, Palace Street Historic District and West Side National Register District. Aurora also has many buildings that are designated landmarks.
The Near Eastside Historic District primarily consists of East Galena Boulevard, Lincoln Avenue, South Avenue and South 4th Street.
The Riddle Highlands Historic District consists primarily of Sunset Avenue, Lawndale Avenue, Pennsylvania Avenue and North Lake Street.
The Palace Street Historic District consists mainly of West Illinois Avenue, Palace Street and Plum Street.
The West Side National Register consists mainly of Highland Avenue, West Downer Place, Garfield Avenue, and Locust Street.
There are many benefits of having a historic designation in Aurora. It can increase property values and improve the character of neighborhoods. It allows neighbors to play a part in the preservation and beautification of their neighborhoods through ensuring improvements such as historic street lighting, historic plaques for homes and neighborhood organizations. Some other benefits are easier access for information on how to repair your house and research house history.
If a building is a designated historic landmark, the owner needs to apply for a COA (Certificate of Appropriateness) before making any changes. The COA is needed for outside improvements to windows, doors, roofs, siding, etc. Financial assistance, such as loans and grants are also available. For more information you can contact the City of Aurora Preservation Division at 630-844-3648 or find information online at www.aurora-il.org/historicpreservation
Very nice. We will have to wander around Aurora when it gets warm. I bet there are also nice flower gardens.
Thanks Suzette. Aurora downtown is beautiful! Especially in nice weather. There are beautiful flowers on Stolp St. downtown. I look forward to exploring with you.
Stolp St. is the first/top photo of the post.