History
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2010, the Emerson Heights neighborhood dates to the 1910s, when developers purchased farmland on the edge of Indianapolis’s east side, divided it onto parcels, and began building Arts and Crafts-style homes on the lots. The developers established the boundaries of Emerson Heights as Tenth Street to the north, Michigan Street to the south, Linwood Avenue to west, and Emerson Avenue to the east. These remain the neighborhood’s boundaries today.
When Emerson Heights was founded, streetcars had been running to nearby Irvington for several years, but the rise of the automobile made the area even more accessible to residents moving out of the congested downtown. The real estate company that developed Emerson Heights built quality homes at affordable prices, and this helped to attract the growing middle class to the neighborhood.
Emerson Heights was a carefully planned community, with many of the homes situated on hillsides above streets with esplanades. No homes could be built for less than $1,200, and all had to be set back an equal distance from the curb in order to create a pleasant streetscape. Entrances to the neighborhood featured brick pillars adorned with flowers.
All the qualities that helped make Emerson Heights appealing in its early years still abound today, drawing in new generations who are eager to call Emerson Heights home.
Amenities
Our community enjoys convenient commutes to all points around town, including a 7-minute commute to downtown and IUPUI. Shopping is convenient with Linwood Square offering grocery, pharmacy, banking and other retail outlets. Coffee shops, eateries and the library are just down the street in Irvington. The Emerson Theater is home of one of the best alternative music scenes while downtown restaurants, cultural events and museums are just minutes away.
For the weekend athlete, Ellenberger Park, and the Pleasant Run Trail offer recreational opportunities and the Monon trailhead is a short bike trip up 10th street. Additional bike lanes and trail connections, such as the Pennsy trail, are in the works.
Our neighborhood is near many of the largest employers on the eastside. We are within walking distance of Community Hospital East and a short drive to Raytheon and IU Health facilities. Our surprisingly affordable homes make us a perfect choice for academic, city, state and nonprofit employees who want to live in the community they serve.
Emerson Heights is served by a variety of good schools with a proven track record of academic performance. Parents can choose from a menu of schools that offer innovative teaching styles, extended school days, enhanced art and music programs, focused curriculum and an emphasis on leadership and values—just to name a few of the possible options. Several of these schools are located very near the neighborhood within walking distance.
We are supported by the active Emerson Heights Community Organization (EHCO). Monthly neighborhood meetings encourage all residents of Emerson Heights to participate in discussing EHCO issues and initiatives.
The neighborhood features tree lined esplanades with one and two story homes, most with full basements, in the bungalow style. Parking is available both off-street and in alley-access garages. Many of the homes still feature the original architectural detail from the Arts and Crafts era including real oak hardwood floors, stained interior woodwork, built-ins, brick fireplaces and large front porches. With all that the neighborhood has to offer, the homes are still surprisingly affordable. When considering your next residence, remember the near-to-downtown, affordable alternative of Emerson Heights.