Garden District, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
The Garden District is a historic residential neighborhood situated in Baton Rouge’s Mid-City area, where Park Boulevard meets Government Street. Known for its upscale homes and active civic association, the Garden District is celebrated for its rich architectural heritage and community spirit. This neighborhood is not just a single entity but rather a collection of three distinct historic districts: Roseland Terrace, Drehr Place, and Kleinert Terrace. Each of these areas contributes to the overall charm and historical significance of the Garden District.
Roseland Terrace Historic District
Roseland Terrace is one of the primary components of the Garden District, bordered by Government Street, 18th Street, Myrtle Street, and 22nd Street. Officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, this district encompasses approximately 65 acres (26 hectares) and features a total of 346 resources, with 302 of those recognized as contributing properties. The architecture primarily consists of one and two-story residences, reflecting the style and character of early 20th-century American neighborhoods.
Historical Background
The inception of Roseland Terrace dates back to 1911 when the Zadok Realty Company laid out the first subdivision in Baton Rouge. This area was previously known for its racetrack and rural landscape, adorned with wild Cherokee roses that inspired the neighborhood’s name. A citywide contest resulted in the designation of Roseland Terrace, which emphasized the natural beauty surrounding it. The developers aimed to maintain this bucolic charm by implementing unique planning features, such as planting trees along streets and relocating utility poles to alleyways.
Despite initial skepticism regarding the location’s appeal, the developers successfully sold 408 lots within two years at prices ranging from $150 to $500. The peak period for construction in Roseland Terrace occurred during the late 1910s through the 1920s, culminating in a diverse assortment of homes that reflect various architectural influences.
Architectural Significance
The architectural styles found within Roseland Terrace predominantly showcase the Queen Anne Colonial Revival influences characteristic of the late 19th century. Features such as fluted columns, semi-octagonal bays, elaborate rooflines, and extensive front porches define these early homes. The neighborhood experienced a significant boom in bungalow construction between 1917 and 1930, resulting in a vast array of well-preserved bungalows that exemplify this popular architectural style.
With approximately 88% of its housing stock dating before 1930 intact, Roseland Terrace stands as one of Louisiana’s best-preserved early 20th-century neighborhoods. Its bungalows are characterized by open floor plans that promote interaction between living spaces while maintaining an inviting atmosphere through extensive porch designs. This area not only showcases exemplary domestic architecture but also reflects community planning ideals from the era that catered to families seeking a balance between urban life and suburban tranquility.
Drehr Place Historic District
The Drehr Place Historic District is another integral part of Baton Rouge’s Garden District. Bounded by Government Street, South 22nd Street, Myrtle Avenue, and Saint Rose Avenue, this district covers about 37 acres (15 hectares) and contains a total of 112 resources—89 of which are contributing properties. The majority of these homes are one or two stories tall and represent various architectural styles from 1921 to 1947.
Development History
Drehr Place traces its origins back to 1919 when Alvin L. Drehr acquired a substantial plot known as Kugler Tract. The area was officially designated as Drehr’s Place on maps from the early 1920s. This district was recognized for its historical significance when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 13, 1997. In October 2005, it received further acknowledgment as a local historic district by the East Baton Rouge Parish Historic Preservation Commission.
Kleinert Terrace Historic District
Kleinert Terrace rounds out the trio of historic districts within Baton Rouge’s Garden District. Encompassing approximately 60 acres (24 hectares), Kleinert Terrace is bounded by Myrtle Avenue, Perkins Road, Broussard Street, and South Eugene Street. This district comprises a total of 182 resources, with 142 identified as contributing properties dating from 1927 to 1947.
Historical Recognition
Similar to its counterparts, Kleinert Terrace showcases residential designs predominantly found within one and two-story homes. It was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 5, 1998. Notable contributing properties include individual landmarks such as Pecue House on Myrtle Avenue and Manship House on Kleinert Avenue.
The Cultural Impact of the Garden District
The Garden District has not only maintained its historical significance but has also gained recognition in popular culture. Filmmaker Steven Soderbergh chose this charming neighborhood as a backdrop for his first feature film “Sex, Lies, and Videotape.” While set against various locations throughout Baton Rouge, Soderbergh’s film captures elements of life in the Garden District through its portrayal of characters residing in this picturesque setting.
Conclusion
The Garden District in Baton Rouge represents more than just a collection of beautiful homes; it embodies a significant chapter in Louisiana’s architectural history. Comprising three distinctive historic districts—Roseland Terrace, Drehr Place, and Kleinert Terrace—this area highlights early twentieth-century residential development characterized by thoughtful community planning and exquisite design principles.
As an established neighborhood with an active civic association dedicated to preserving its unique charm and character, the Garden District continues to attract residents who appreciate its historical roots while fostering a strong sense of community. Whether one admires its architectural beauty or engages with its vibrant local culture, the Garden District remains an essential part of Baton Rouge’s identity—bridging past traditions with present-day life.
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