The first period (1865-1894) was an era of prosperity associated with the development of the city's railroad connections after the American Civil War.

The inclusion of West Jefferson Street was important because it was the main thoroughfare in the late 19th and early 20th centuries through the Hawkeye Creek Valley.

It led from the central business district along the Mississippi River to the Agency Road that headed westward out of town.

[2][3] For the most part the buildings in the district housed commercial enterprises, both retail, banking and professional offices.

The taller buildings are located on the east side along Jefferson Street and the adjacent blocks.