Broadway Historic District

The Premier Historic Area in Rock Island

This grand Victorian neighborhood is the premier historic area in Rock Island, where old houses are regarded as treasures. Great architecture, constant restorations, and a first-rate neighborhood association have made this area the place to be in the Quad Cities for old home lovers. More than 550 homes make up the Broadway collection, which features Queen Anne, Italianate, and Colonial Revival architecture. The earliest homes are from 1865, but most of the area was built between 1890 and 1915. The Broadway neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features the greatest concentration of Rock Island landmarks.

Broadway is host to Rock Island’s oldest neighborhood association, founded in 1988. The neighborhood association is nationally famous for creating the much-copied Great Unveiling Program where artificial siding is removed from historic homes.

Boundaries & Map

The Broadway Historic District is roughly bounded by 17th and 23rd streets and 5th Avenue to 7th Avenue and 13th Avenue. View a map of the district.

Wards 1 and 5

Plans & Publications

Neighborhood Association

Broadway Historic District Association

Neighborhood Programs & Activities


  • Sidewalk Program
  • Street Signs
  • Tour of Homes
  • Victory Garden
  • Website
  • Welcome Bags
  • Broadway Sampler of Open Houses
  • Houses for Sale On-Line Listing

Public Facilities

None.

Historic Register Properties in the District


The Broadway National Register Historic District was listed in 1998 and includes: