Wooden buildings made of logs or board and batten siding. Merchant's family continued to live above the shop. Most towns tended to look alike. Merchants and builders developed new formula for commercial construction in nineteenth century. CBD develops into densely packed, highly centralized area.
Buildings cover all available land, adjoining sidewalk or street and spreading to property line.
Some widening of streets. New businesses such as car dealerships and gas stations open downtown. Expansion of previously established businesses such as movie theaters, hotels and restaurants. Narrow, congested streets. Shopper's frustration with heavy traffic.