Within the district there exists the great diversity of architectural styles prevalent during the Victorian era. Although the district contains structures dating from the early 1850's, the majority of buildings were constructed between 1870 and 1900. The richness of details, sensitive use of building materials, and contrasting forms among structures weave the cohesive fabric of a virtually intact 19th-century neighborhood. Land use within the district is chiefly residential. Several architecturally distinguished churches, a school and an 1880 commercial row are among the exceptional uses that continue to serve neighborhood residents.
Recent construction is negligible.
There is no federal property and no industrial land use within the district. Density in the district is moderate throughout, but somewhat lower north of First Avenue along Eastern Avenue and Richards Street, where the largest homes and lots are located. Elsewhere, street setbacks and lateral spacing of buildings are virtually uniform and always adequate. Although Joliet limestone, Illinois sandstone, and brick are utilized, frame construction is dominant. The street pattern of the district is that of a rectangular grid aligned along the major coordinates, with the exception of Eastern Avenue, the first street to be laid out in the area.