The Downtown Oswego Historic District (DOHD) was officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places on August 15, 2022. The DOHD includes properties that run along Main Street and are generally bounded by Jackson Street on the north and Washington Street on the south. The district’s period of significance ranges from 1845 to 1972 with many of the structures constructed with architectural styles from the mid-19th century, late Victorian, and late 19th and 20th century revivals.

Being listed on the registry as part of DOHD does not limit a property owner from doing interior or exterior modifications. The listing of these properties in the National Register of Historic Places not only recognizes its rich historical significance, but also extends additional benefits to property owners.

Property owners may apply for a Federal Historic Preservation Tax Credit, a 20% federal income tax credit for owners of historic buildings that undergo substantial rehabilitations for income-producing uses. An income producing use is defined as rental-residential, commercial, agricultural and/or industrial use. Property owners undertaking certain certified rehabilitations may also apply for the Illinois Historic Preservation Tax Credit, a state income-tax credit equal to 25% of a project's qualified rehabilitation expenditures, up to $3 million.

View the Downtown Oswego Historic District Nomination for additional details.