The Fourth Ward Neighborhood in Charlotte, NC is a Historic Treasure

Located between Graham and Church streets north to south and Tenth to Fifth streets east to west, the Fourth Ward Neighborhood in Charlotte, North Carolina is a lovely blend of beautiful historic homes and more modern architecture. Originally taking its name from its designation as a political unit in the mid 1800s, the neighborhood is far enough from the downtown area to be quiet and pristine, lined with trees and houses dating back to the late nineteenth century.

For many decades, the Fourth Ward neighborhood, located in the northwest portion of the city, was the place to live for many of the city's most affluent citizens. More a suburb than part of the city, mainly because the trolley lines did not travel to the Fourth Ward, it was the neighborhood of choice for wealthy merchants, doctors, attorneys, and others. It was also home to numerous churches, making it the center of influence for religious matters.

However, as the trolley lines extended, people began moving out to the suburbs and the Fourth Ward suffered from a loss of population. Buildings became dilapidated and crime rose in the area. However, concerned citizens began to reinvigorate and area by the late 1970s and, today, the Fourth Ward neighborhood of Charlotte is one of the most desirable. And while the beautiful Victorian homes are still here and the historic churches still operate, the area has also become home to modern apartments and condominiums, making it a truly diverse place to live. The region is also home to the city's performing arts district, including the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, an excellent venue that offers a number of concerts, plays, and Broadway musicals throughout the year.

The condominiums and townhouses in the Fourth Ward can cost upward to $2 million or more, but it is the charming older houses that have caused this neighborhood to repeatedly be voted one of the best "walking'' areas in Charlotte. Indeed, a walking tour of the community provides visitors with a look at some of the loveliest buildings and homes in the city. These include the North Carolina Medical College Building, constructed in 1907 of red brick with stamped metal trim and used as a hotel after the college closed; the Liddell-McNinch House, a Victorian with shingle-style and Queen Anne influences that was home to local industrialist, Vinton Liddell; the 1931 Frederick Apartments, known for the structure's elaborate use of terra cotta decoration; the Bagley-Mullen House, the best example of brick Queen Anne-style architecture in the city; and the stunning First Presbyterian Church, still the religious centerpiece of the city, built in Gothic Revival style in the mid 1800s.

Other locations not to miss include the Settlers' Cemetery, opened in the 1770s and the burial place of many early settlers and war heroes. Also in the Fourth Ward is the Charlotte Cotton Mill Complex, the first successful textile plant in the city.

A great time to visit the Fourth Ward neighborhood of Charlotte is during the annual Holiday Home Tour. A much-anticipated event for more than 30 years, this holiday happening includes tours of 7 private homes and the Presbyterian Church, all decorated for the holidays. One ticket provides access on all three days of the event.