Around 1895, Wallace Woods was developed from the Wallace family farm at the edge of what was then Covington. The Wallace property was divided, and over time, developed in a variety of ways. Some smaller homes were built for workers engaged in constructing the neighborhood’s larger homes, a few of which were built for wealthy Cincinnati mercantile families. Wallace Woods contains a diversity of house styles and sizes, reflecting several architectural periods, including Colonial Revival, Arts & Crafts, Italianate, and Victorian. In addition, many homes have elements of other styles, including Romanesque. While homes in the neighborhood reflect the unique craftsmanship of their time, many have elaborate gardens that reflect the strong sense of pride and ownership among today’s residents.

The neighborhood’s residents, like their homes, also reflect diversity, and include the Bishop of the Diocese of Covington, nurses, doctors, educators, singles, families, retirees, college students, and new graduates. People are attracted to Wallace Woods by the unique character of the homes, its close proximity to downtown Cincinnati, as well as its active and vibrant neighborhood association.

The Wallace Woods Neighborhood Association has remained an active force, both politically and socially, for more than 30 years. Through the association, residents established a “good neighbor” scholarship fund for Covington high school graduates; put the “woods” back into Wallace Woods by purchasing and planting over 100 trees during the 1990s; and landscaped traffic islands and other key “green spaces” in the local area, including developing, in conjunction with the Housing Authority of Covington and the city’s Parks & Recreation Department, a new park containing mosaic stepping stones at the corner of Madison & Sterrett Avenues. Recently the neighborhood bought community banners that are, thanks to the city’s Public Improvement Department, prominently displayed on neighborhood streets. An example of the neighborhood’s current priorities are its efforts to introduce environmentally sensitive construction techniques to deal with drainage issues in alleys, and its plans to enhance pedestrian safety after the successful effort to remove highway designation from some neighborhood streets.

The neighborhood’s social activities are legendary. Each year a neighborhood-wide yard sale, a pie and cake auction, a bluegrass concert, corn roast and progressive dinner are held. Periodically, Wallace Woods hosts historic house tours, which have been both popular and profitable for the association. For residents of Wallace Woods, building community begins in the neighborhood.