Built in 1913, this once grand Four Square plan house has fallen into serious disrepair. Distinctive features of its Colonial Revival style, however, such as the round classical columns and the pedimented gable on the porch remain. The house is located near the Cedar River in what was a historically redlined area, a section designated by lenders as high risk for investment. Consequently, the neighborhood residents who were predominately African-Americans and other minorities were unable to get loans or even insure their properties.

The house is an example of the many historic homes in Waterloo that have been neglected over the years and in serious condition because of a lack of regular maintenance. The City of Waterloo purchased this home in 2022 after it had been vacant for 5 years and the owner was unwilling to fix the many issues with the house.

The house is currently vacant and has not had water service since 2016. The front door and some of the windows have been boarded up. Extensive roof damage and unsealed exterior openings have caused significant interior damage as well.

The City has attempted to sell the property to a group to rehabilitate the site. However, there has not been any interest up to this point. The City’s planning department will soon determine the next steps for the structure which could likely be demolition if a developer cannot be found.