Historic Districts

Lexington has more pre-Civil War homes and commercial buildings (over 135), per-capita, than any other community regardless of size, in the state of Missouri. Many of the homes are open for tours by appointment through the Tourism Bureau.

The 900 block of Main Street was once known as the infamous “Block 42,” a risqué saloon block which women and children were cautioned to avoid. Legend has it that 42 saloons along with house of ill repute, were located on this block, (which might not have been far from the truth), but in reality, “42” refers to the block number on city’s plat map. Enjoy the historic feel of the entire Downtown National Register Historic District of which Block 42 is a notorious part.

Old Neighborhoods Historic District – Main Street, Franklin Avenue and South Street from 13th to 20th Streets, are lined with antebellum homes dating from the 1830’s. You can enjoy the historic architecture on these tree lined streets where covered wagons and ladies in their carriages traveled long ago.