One of the great joys of owning an old home is the sense of history that accompanies it. This history can help guide sensitive renovation projects, establish a connection with the past, and construct a greater understanding of the building's unique character.

This information is adapted from a presentation co-hosted by the Des Moines Rehabbers Club and the Drake Neighborhood Association, prepared by Jennifer Irsfeld James and Steve Wilke-Shapiro. Click on the links below to view notes and worksheets from the presentation.

Another source for information if your home is located in a National Register historic district is the nomination form. PDF's of the original nomination forms for most Des Moines districts are available on RenovateDSM.

If you find interesting information about your home, please let use know by e-mailing steve@RenovateDSM.com - we would love to expand this section with stories of individual homes in Des Moines.