We have made every effort to provide accurate information, based on nominations to the National Register of Historic Places, extensive research, data gathered from homeowners, and previous tour brochures. Rest assured our information is treated at the highest level of accuracy.

You will come upon other significant homes in these neighborhoods, that are not included due to space limitations. We encourage you to explore the nearby streets and avenues to find additional treasures. The stories of the early settlers and second-generation business owners who built these homes provide a history of the origins and early development of the city.

The Park/Glen Avenues Historic District is located within a valley just south of the original plot of the City of Council Bluffs. In the early days of Council Bluffs, the valley was known as “Hang Hollow” after Baltimore Muir, an immigrant accused of murder, was lynched there (304 Glen Avenue). There is no 200 block on Glen Avenue; the 100 block leads directly to the 300 block.

The development of the Lincoln/Fairview area began in 1850-1860. At that time Oakland Avenue was known as Valley Street. In 1897 Valley Street was renamed Oakland Avenue, although most north-south roads across the city were named streets. The name change represents the wealth and influence of those who had and were building their large, stylish homes along Oakland Avenue. Through the years, the neighborhood acquired several nicknames including “Nob Hill,” “Pill Hill,” and during the Great Depression, “Poverty Hill”. The district is named “Lincoln/Fairview” because the Lincoln Monument and Fairview Cemetery are within its boundaries.