Woodruff Place is another historic neighborhood located just east of the downtown area.  It's bordered by East 10th Street on the north, East Michigan Street on the south, Tecumseh Street on the east, and the eastern boundary of Arsenal Technical High School on the west.  It's just five minutes from downtown.

It is a 128 year old community that sits on 80 acres.  Originally created by James O. Woodruff who laid the plans for a residential park in 1872.  Woodruff Place was one of the nation's first self-contained Victorian residential subdivisions.  Created to be a "small-town" within a city with a park-like atmosphere boasting statues and fountains.  (It truly makes you feel like you are inside a park.)  By 1890, the shelter and restful charm of Woodruff Place drew hundreds of Indianapolis citizens away the city noise and atmosphere.

Unfortunately, like many of the other historic neighborhoods, Woodruff Place saw several years of deteriation.  As the inner part of the city saw its residents move further out into the suburbs,  eventually the large mansions became an inexpensive place to live near downtown.  In 1962, Woodruff Place lost its incorporated status and battle with the city (Indianapolis) and became annexed into the city's jurisdiction.  At that time, Indianapolis didn't make it a priority to maintain the fountains and statues, which just added to the urban decay. 

The homes found on the four drives of the neighborhood range in 50 years old to 150 years old and are marked by a variety of architectural styles.  Each of the four streets contains fountains, interesting street lights and a circular area to turn around onto one of the other streets.  The Charles A. Layman House built in 1894 flaunts some very pleasing "gingerbread" from its main gable, as well as a tower over its southeast corner.  Favoring the Victorian styles, there are also many spectacular examples of Queen Anne style homes throughout the neighborhood.  There is a 96 page Historic Preservation Plan for this neighborhood adopted by the Indianapolis Historic Preservation Commission

Neighbors say that this is a very tight-knit community.  Each knowing their neighbors and looking out for one another.  There is an active neighborhood watch and a tremendous amount of events taking place through out the year in this community.  Some have moved from the "suburbs" to experience the welcoming feeling Woodruff Place provides.  It is conveniently located to many of the Indianapolis attractions.  Just minutes away from some of the best downtown restaurants, the south end of the Monon Trail is a few blocks away, the Indianapolis Zoo is about 10 minutes from the area and about 5 minutes to Monument Circle.

Historic Woodruff Place Tour of Homes, Gardens And Studios will take place June 30 and July 1, 2007.  Tickets will be available for purchase in the spring at O'Malia Food Market, 320 North New Jersey Street , or by calling 681-1119. Purchase price is $10 in advance and $12 the days of the tour. Free neighborhood taxi service from house to house, if needed.  For a list of other events, visit www.woodruffplace.com

A very interesting place to visit and see the craftsmenship of homes long ago.  Many of the homes have leaded and stained glass windows.  You will find totally restored homes as well as homes awaiting an owner that wants to make them into what they once were 100 years ago.  Currently there are 7 homes for sale.  Prices range from $195,000 to $355,000.  There is also an apartment building that had a sign stating there was an apartment to rent.

If you are considering a move to the Indianapolis Area and would like to know more about us, please visit http://cyndisloop4indyhomes.com.