The Indiana Historic District has recently received designation by the Texas Historical Commission and the National Register of Historical Places. The district consists of 12 contributing properties from the 900 to 1008 block of Indiana Avenue in downtown Wichita Falls, Texas. The new district is located approximately two blocks southwest of the Depot Square Historic District, that gained designation in 2004.
“This collaborative effort between our organization, the City of Wichita Falls, Landmark Commission, TIF #4 Board, property owners and Post Oak Preservation Solutions creates an awareness on the national level for the preservation of historic structures and provides an opportunity to incentivize development and redevelopment within the district. This designation advances our mission by preserving Downtown’s history, including one of Downtown’s most iconic locations Wichita Theatre. We look forward to and are excited about the future revitalization this will bring,” Jana Schmader, Executive Director of Downtown Wichita Falls Development.
The earliest building is the Wichita Theatre, originally constructed in 1908; the theater underwent a major renovation at the hands of the Interstate Amusement Company, in 1938 resulting in its current Streamlined Art Moderne appearance. The majority of the buildings were constructed during the 1920s.
“After decades of realizing significant progress and the advantages that Depot Square has brought the district, we feel confident that the Indiana Historic District will further catalyze economic development in Downtown and ensure the longevity of its history.”
The creation of a National Registered Historic District makes available funds through tax credits at the state and federal level and protects the character and quality of the district.