It was designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1970[2] and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

[1] The district is roughly bounded by Cady Street, Rogers Street, and Randolph Street;[3] alterations to the boundaries of the city-designated district in 2003 and 2007 included structures on the opposite sides of the original bounding streets within the district.

[4] The district is located in the heart of old Northville, and is primarily residential, although the 73 contributing structures, include several commercial buildings and a church.

[2] The majority of the district contains Gothic Revival houses constructed between 1860 and 1880.

The most significant structures in the district include:[3] Two of the most significant structures in the district have been moved to the adjacent Mill Race Village, which was established in 1972 as a location where buildings slated for demolition could be moved.