The area known today as the Old Highland Neighborhood was opened for settlement in 1857, and major growth occurred during the 1880’s and 1890’s. This period saw large architecturally designed and contractor built residences of distinctive period styles. The population was generally merchants who operated businesses along Washington, Plymouth, and West Broadway. At this time the neighborhood first became known as Highland, so called because it was located on the first high land above Bassett Creek and Oak Lake to the South. Many fine residences from this era still survive today.