21 May Historic Preservation in Encanto-Palmcroft
Tucked away in central Phoenix, Encanto-Palmcroft offers a piece of history that offers historic homes that date back to pre-World War II. These homes, and their residents, are part of a group hoping to preserve and maintain the homes that bring the neighborhood pride and relish the historic nature of the structures.
Encanto-Palmcroft is centrally located to Phoenix, and was originally developed as a product of the agriculture boom in Phoenix that brought a population increase in the 1920’s. When the Kenilworth streetcar line was developed along Encanto Boulevard, the option to travel with ease made the move to the outskirts of town more manageable. Not to mention the Model T Ford had dropped to an all-time low price, making it more affordable than ever to own a car.
The two developers and masterminds behind the neighborhood, Dwight B. Heard and William G. Hartranft, bought 80 acres in 1927 to develop. Heard was the publisher of Arizona Republican and the largest owner of land in the area. It became home to the affluent professional and business middle class of the 30’s and 40’s.
Today, the subdivision is notable from Seventh to 15th avenues, from McDowell Road to Encanto Park and Golf Course.Most the houses were built in the 1930’s and 1940’s, featuring a Spanish Colonial and Tutor Revival type of architecture.
Today, the Encanto Palmcroft Historic Preservation Association holds regularly scheduled meetings and advocates for the historic preservation of the neighborhood and homes. There are over 330 homes in the ¼ square mile of the sub division, making it a great neighborhood to walk around and enjoy the architecture. If you’re looking for a more in-depth view of the homes, check out their home tour — which happens every other year — with proceeds going to support the preservation society.
Homes for sale in the neighborhood are priced on average around $575,000, and it was rated in 2014 the most expensive neighborhood in Phoenix. With the neighborhood being a short five-minute drive from downtown Phoenix and a short walk from Encanto Park, it’s no wonder the neighborhood has remained so popular over the years.
Encanto Area Homes For Sale
