National Register Listing

Wolff, Philip A., House and Carriage House

a.k.a. Belmont Hill

1420 Seminole Ave., NW, Cedar Rapids, IA
Local significance of the building:
Commerce; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture houses residential buildings
In the early 1900s, the town of Villisca, Iowa was the site of a gruesome murder that remains unsolved to this day. On June 10, 1912, eight people were bludgeoned to death with an axe in their home. The crime is known as the Villisca Axe Murders and has been the subject of numerous books, films, and TV shows.
Iowa random facts
Linn County, Iowa has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Sac and Fox tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the early 1830s, establishing small farming communities along the Cedar River. In 1839, Linn County was officially established by the Iowa Territorial Legislature and named in honor of Senator Lewis F. Linn.

During the mid-19th century, Linn County experienced significant growth and development. The construction of the railroad in the 1850s brought increased trade and transportation opportunities. The county became an important hub for agriculture and industry, with flour mills, sawmills, and various manufacturing businesses flourishing. The city of Cedar Rapids, the county seat, emerged as a major economic center.

In April 1921, Linn County was struck by a devastating flood that caused extensive damage to Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas. The event, known as the Great Flood of 1921, resulted in numerous fatalities and significant destruction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure. However, the community rallied together and successfully rebuilt, incorporating modern flood prevention measures into the city's infrastructure.

Today, Linn County continues to be a thriving and vibrant community. It offers a rich cultural heritage with various museums, historical sites, and annual events that celebrate its past. The county also boasts a diverse economy, with a strong focus on manufacturing, healthcare, education, and technology. Linn County remains an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike, with its beautiful landscapes, recreational opportunities, and a commitment to preserving its history for future generations.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Linn County, Iowa.

  • 1838: Linn County established by the Legislative Assembly of the Wisconsin Territory.
  • 1839: Marion becomes the first county seat.
  • 1840: The first courthouse is built in Marion.
  • 1841: Cedar Rapids becomes the new county seat due to its central location.
  • 1849: Linn County officially becomes part of the state of Iowa.
  • 1850: The first county jail is constructed in Cedar Rapids.
  • 1869: The Great Flood devastates Cedar Rapids, causing significant damage to the city and surrounding areas.
  • 1904: The current Linn County Courthouse is completed in Cedar Rapids.
  • 1920: The population of Linn County reaches over 100,000 people.
  • 2000: The African American Historical Museum and Cultural Center of Iowa is established in Cedar Rapids.
  • 2008: Cedar Rapids experiences severe flooding, causing widespread damage and displacement.
  • 2019: Linn County celebrates its 180th anniversary since establishment.