[2] As Ottumwa grew in the mid to late 19th century many of its wealthier citizens built houses on the bluff overlooking the town and the Des Moines River Valley below.

Italianate, Queen Anne, and Tudor Revival are the most popular architectural styles that are found in the district.

It contains some of the best examples of several architectural styles in the city, and the largest concentration of architect-designed houses and buildings.

The contributing structures include the brick streets, stone retaining walls, and an iron fence.

The Foster/Bell House and the Jay Funeral Home are individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.