For anyone who's been contemplating a visit to Fort Wayne, this weekend (September 11 & 12, 2010) would be a good time. The West Central Neighborhood Association's Historic House and Garden Tour takes place both days. I'll be peddling my photos at the Arts Fest that's part of the event. Here's the link:

 

http://www.westcentralneighborhood.org/hgt.html

 

West Central was selected as a Best Old House Neighborhood in 2010 by This Old House magazine.

Congrats on the This Old House recognition.

Robert,

Indiana does have some awesome historic architecture and where-ever small towns have retained their old homes and buildings, they are often as impressive as larger Hoosier towns and cities. Nice to learn your neighborhood is being recognized. A longtime friend of mine and his family live in Madisonville and he works for the Indiana Landmarks Foundation. Another good friend of mine ("Restoration Consultant") and his partner are in the process of relocating from Indianapolis to Cincincinnati and he sold me on a future move to the Queen City several years ago. We patiently await the sale of our home in Texas to relocate there. (and will buy another Victorian era home)

 

I was surprised to see Detroit, West Adams in LA, and Bed-Stuy in Brooklyn in the top ten list. The editors' choices seem a little arbitrary and unusual. There are so many formerly great old neighborhoods across the country awaiting urban pioneers and people with vision to bring them back. Plenty of these faded gems will disappear from neglect within a few decades unless the current generation coming of age steps forward to embrace the principles of restoration and reclaiming our architectural heritage. Maybe today's emphasis on "Green" principles of environmental responsibility will grow the ranks of potential rehabbers-at the risk of repeating a green principle mantra, the "greenest stucture is one that is already built". BTW, I liked your "dreamhome" choices in the other thread chosen from the homes in your neighborhood. All of them are classics of their respective styles. Hope the pending tour is a success and the weather cooperates.