Spread out along the bluffs and valleys of the broad Mississippi, the city of Burlington charms visitors with a vaguely European look and feel. Its continental character is unmistakable, from the quaint brick and cobblestone streets to breathtaking river views, a rolling landscape dotted by tall church spires, and neighborhoods of beautiful old homes dating to the 19th century.Iowa's first capital, Burlington has a rich history reflected in the grand houses spread throughout its older hilltop neighborhoods. The families who built these mansions made fortunes in everything from lumber and dry goods to law and politics. They often used native materials to build their homes and took advantage of the large number of talented European immigrant carpenters and craftsmen available in the city. Because early Burlington had few architects, many of the structures blend architectural styles from Gothic Revival and Italianate to Georgian and Queen Anne.
But many of Burlington's old homes have changed considerably since they were built in the city's heyday well over a century ago. While most were lovingly preserved, others deteriorated. Some once-elegant structures sat empty or were divided, neglected, or even condemned. A few survived fires, misguided modernizers, and antiques scavengers.
In recent years there has been a tremendous rebirth of interest in these unique and historic residences. Stirred by both longtime Burlingtonians and newcomers, houses, blocks, and even entire neighborhoods are springing back to life.
The following stories introduce a few of Burlington's historic homes, buildings, and churches and the people who built, used and lived in them. They illustrate that preservation is about more than just bricks and mortar, mantels and chandeliers - it's also about a community renewing itself.