Signs Posted In Flanner House Homes District Highlight Historic Significance

For years, the Flanner House Homes Historic District on the city’s near westside has been threatened by developers. On Tuesday, local residents put up signage to honor the neighborhood's historic and cultural significance -- and hopefully preserve their homes.

The Flanner House Homes District is a historically Black neighborhood near downtown Indianapolis. It’s been listed in the National Register of Historic Places for almost 20 years. Neighborhood leaders have now put up 15 signs, funded by Indiana Landmarks, to make it known.

Eunice Norton has lived in the neighborhood for 70 years. Her parents were some of the first homeowners in the area. 

“I'm here today because of my dad. And I think a lot of us are here because of our parents,” said Norton. “It's very rewarding to see this sign that should have been up years ago.”

The homes were built in the 1950’s by Black families that struggled to secure conventional mortgages. More than half of the homes are still owned by the builders or their families.

“We’re trying to keep Flanner House from being taken away,” said Norton. “I hope that everyone who sees this, and everyone who’s present, will continue to fight for this neighborhood. It’s worth it.”