Marktown Historic District

What if I told you that the cars park on the sidewalks and the people walk in the streets? That’s Marktown Historic District for you! Nestled in East Chicago, Indiana, Marktown is a quirky time capsule of a town. This isn’t just any ordinary neighborhood. It was the brainchild of industrialist Clayton Mark who, in 1917, envisioned a model community for his steelworkers. He hired the renowned architect Howard Van Doren Shaw to design Marktown. Shaw drew inspiration from picturesque English villages, resulting in narrow, winding streets and charming Tudor-style homes. Picture this: instead of driveways, residents had hooks on their windows facing the street to hang clotheslines, assuming their neighbors wouldn’t mind. Marktown was designed to have everything: schools, parks, shops, even a theater. Sadly, World War I threw a wrench in the plans. Only four of the planned 28 sections were built. The dream of a sprawling worker’s paradise remained just that: a dream. Today, Marktown is a fascinating blend of well-maintained homes and those showing the wear and tear of time. It’s a testament to a bygone era and a unique slice of Americana. So, next time you’re in the area, take a stroll through Marktown. But watch your step, you’ll be walking on the road!