There have been some notable changes throughout the area from 1900 to 2025. The density in this part of Midtown had grown from 1900 to 1950, but then by 1991, the area had started to lose quite a few structures. One of the first notable changes is the Catholic School on the corner of W 39th Terrace and Pennsylvania Ave. The school was standing in 1900, according to the Sanborn fire insurance maps, and stood until 1950. It was built behind the Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic church, and where it once stood is now a parking lot.

1900 Sanbourn Maps

1925 Historic Maps

1950 Sanbourn Maps

The structures on the corner of Washington and Broadway have also changed over the years. This corner was being built up until the 1950’s, and then when you jump to 1991, most of the buildings are gone. In its place, a gas station has been built. There has also been a notable number of houses that have disappeared in the area as well. Houses along Central Street have disappeared.

One of the more recent changes in the area is seen along 39th and Broadway. Some businesses were built around here, but in 2023, a fire burned down the structures that were here. The only thing that sits in this location now is the concrete slab where the businesses once stood.

1980 Photo of Our Lady of Good Counsel

Current photo of Our Lady of Good Counsel

Figure Grounds