Mordecai Place
November 5, 2023
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Mordecai is one of Raleigh's most sought-after historic neighborhoods.
Over the past decade it has seen a resurgence in interest and investment.
Many original Victorian and early 20th century homes have been beautifully restored and renovated.
At the same time, a number of vacant lots and dilapidated properties have been replaced with new custom-built homes designed to fit the neighborhood's historic character.
These modern custom homes often incorporate classic architectural details like wrap-around porches, dormer windows, and standing-seam metal roofs.
Luxury interior finishes as well as smart home technology and sustainability features are blended with traditional exteriors.
This influx of upscale new construction has helped increase property values and transform the area.
Along with the custom homes building boom, Mordecai’s population has been steadily rising.
The convenient downtown location and historic charm have attracted young professionals, families, and retirees.
Walkability, access to green space, and the strong sense of community also draw new residents.
Mordecai’s population today has grown to approximately 2,000 residents, up from 1,200 just 15 years ago.
In this captivating community, you'll discover the allure of its illustrious past, while enjoying the conveniences of the present day.
Join us as we delve into Mordecai Place's rich history, subdivisions, geography, and the plethora of opportunities that await both residents and visitors alike.
Mordecai Place Overview
Mordecai Place is a slice of Raleigh history come to life. This charming neighborhood got its start way back in the early 1900s, making it one of the oldest suburbs in town.
It's named after the Mordecai family, who were big shots in Raleigh's early days.
Over the years, Mordecai Place has kept its old-school charm while welcoming new development.
This charming historical Raleigh community has undergone thoughtful revitalization and expansion over the years, seamlessly blending its historic charm with modern amenities and conveniences.
History and Development
The neighborhood developed around the Mordecai House, built in 1785. That's right, this place has roots going back to before George Washington was president!
The Mordecai community traces its roots back to the late 18th century when Joel Lane first established the city of Raleigh.
One of the area's early settlers was Jacob Mordecai, a merchant from Pennsylvania who moved to Raleigh in 1785.
Mordecai built a home and store along what is now Person Street, helping to develop the area into a thriving new community.
Preserved homes and structures within the area, such as the Mordecai House (built in 1785, 7 years before Raleigh was founded) and its lovely gardens, serve as enduring testaments to times gone by.
Once an extensive plantation, the region was transformed into a tight-knit community, now considered one of the city's most inviting neighborhoods.
Over the next century, Mordecai continued to grow into an affluent suburb.
Notable Raleigh businessmen like Moses Amis, Robert Donaldson, and Duncan Cameron built grand Victorian homes in the neighborhood.
By the early 20th century it had established itself as one of Raleigh's most prestigious addresses.
A prized possession is the Mordecai House – home to the city's namesake, Joel Lane.
The timeless beauty of Mordecai's landscape is owed to its developers and builders, many of whom took inspiration from the Colonial Revival architectural style, lending an air of sophistication and elegance to the neighborhood.
Historic Homes in Mordecai Place
Today Mordecai is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and contains over 300 contributing historic structures.
The neighborhood is known for its beautiful Victorian, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival-style homes dating from the late 1800s to the early 1900s.
Tree-lined streets like Person Street, Bloodworth Street, and Mordecai Drive feature charming historic houses, many impeccably restored or well-preserved.
Popular landmarks include the Mordecai House, a Federal-style plantation home built in 1785 by Jacob Mordecai himself.
The historic house now serves as a museum. Other notable homes include the Bobbitt House, the Devereux Meadow House, the Pope-Leighey House, and the Rogers-Bagley-Daniels-Pegues House.
List of Builders
Mordecai Place has a mix of historic homes and newer builds. Some notable builders in the area include:
- Robuck Homes
- Hoeken Design Build
- Steve Sypher Designs
- Concept 8
- Five Horizons Construction
- Rockford Custom Homes
- Custom Estate Homes
- TBP Homes
- Revolution Homes
These folks know how to blend modern comfort with historic charm. Trust me, I've toured plenty of their homes, and they're top-notch!
Home and Lot Sizes
Homes in Mordecai Place come in all shapes and sizes. You'll find cozy bungalows around 1,000 square feet, all the way up to sprawling estates over 4,000 square feet.
Lot sizes typically range from 0.1 to 0.5 acres, giving you room to breathe without too much lawn to mow!
Housing Market Overview
Let me tell you, the Mordecai Place market is hot! As of 2023, home prices range from about $300,000 for a fixer-upper to over $1 million for a restored historic gem.
The median home value is around $550,000, which is higher than the Raleigh average but totally worth it for this location and charm.
The market here moves fast. Homes typically sell within 2-3 weeks of listing. If you're looking to buy, be ready to move quickly.
And if you're selling? Well, you're in luck – demand is high, and inventory is low.
Mordecai Place's Amenities
Mordecai Place offers a vibrant and welcoming community lifestyle, fostering a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie among its residents.
Residents of Mordecai Place enjoy access to a diverse array of amenities and activities.
Mordecai Place offers an attractive mix of old-world southern charm and modern city living.
The Mordecai Historic Park, located just a stone's throw away, is a popular destination for families and history enthusiasts alike.
The park features guided tours of the historic Mordecai House, trolley rides, and seasonal events.
Additionally, the surrounding area is peppered with various parks, fitness centers, and recreational facilities that cater to a wide range of interests and hobbies.
The vibrant surroundings of Mordecai Place offer residents an abundance of amenities and entertainment options, ensuring a well-rounded living experience.
Historic Oakwood Park and Mordecai Mini Park are both in close proximity, ideal for outdoor recreational activities.
Parks, Outdoor Spaces, Recreational Amenities
Mordecai Place is a green oasis in the city. Here are some outdoor spots you'll love:
- Mordecai Historic Park: 3 acres of history and nature
- Halifax Community Park: Great for picnics and play
- Oakwood Dog Park: Let Fido run free!
- Raleigh Greenway System: Miles of trails for walking, jogging, or biking
Community Events, Points of Interest
There's always something happening in Mordecai Place. Some annual events to mark on your calendar:
- Mordecai Historic Park Festival: Celebrate local history and culture
- Oakwood Candlelight Tour: A magical holiday tradition
- First Friday Art Walk: Just a short walk to downtown galleries
Don't miss the Mordecai House tours – they're a great way to dive into local history. And the Raleigh City Farm is right nearby, offering fresh produce and fun events.
Public, Private, Charter Schools and Daycares
Mordecai Place is zoned for some great schools. Here's the lowdown:
- Conn Elementary School: Rated 8/10 by GreatSchools
- Oberlin Middle School: Known for its strong arts program
- Broughton High School: One of the oldest schools in Raleigh, with a great reputation
For private options, St. Timothy's School and Ravenscroft School are both nearby and highly regarded.
Daycare-wise, check out Bright Horizons at Blount Street or Primary Beginnings Child Development Center. Both get rave reviews from local parents.
Dining Near Mordecai Place
- Crawford and Son (American): Farm-to-table goodness. The pork chop is to die for!
- Stanbury (New American): Small plates, big flavors. Try the octopus!
- Oakwood Pizza Box (Italian): Best NY-style pizza in Raleigh. Trust me on this one.
- Garland (Indian-Asian fusion): Spice up your life with their creative dishes.
- Brewery Bhavana (Asian fusion): Dim sum, flowers, books, and beer. What's not to love?
- Sitti (Lebanese): Hummus heaven. Their lamb shank is fall-off-the-bone good.
- The Station (American): Great burgers and a killer patio. Perfect for summer nights.
- Bida Manda (Laotian): Unique flavors you won't find anywhere else in Raleigh.
- Gringo A Go Go (Mexican): Tasty tacos and strong margaritas. Ole!
- Videri Chocolate Factory (Dessert): Not exactly a restaurant, but their hot chocolate is a must-try.
Entertainment
Mordecai Place puts you right in the heart of Raleigh's action. You're just a hop, skip, and a jump from:
- Seaboard Station: Shops, restaurants, and a great weekend farmers market
- Person Street Shops: Local boutiques and eateries
- Downtown Raleigh: All the shopping and entertainment you could want
For entertainment, catch a show at the historic Raleigh Little Theatre or the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. Movie buffs will love the Rialto Theatre, showing indie and foreign films.
Shopping Near Mordecai
Thanks to its central location, Mordecai Place is only minutes away from some of Raleigh's best shopping destinations.
The community offers convenient access to a variety of shopping and entertainment options.
The nearby Village District, a historic shopping district formerly known as Cameron Village, features a diverse array of boutiques, specialty stores, and national retailers.
Additionally, the vibrant Glenwood South district, known for its lively nightlife and entertainment venues, is just a short drive away.
Lastly, other popular shopping centers like the North Hills and Crabtree Valley Mall provide a multitude of retail options to satisfy any fashion-forward shopper.
Healthcare Facilities, Emergency Services
Your health is in good hands in Mordecai Place. Nearby medical facilities include:
- WakeMed Raleigh Campus: Just 2 miles away
- UNC REX Hospital: About 5 miles west
- Duke Raleigh Hospital: 5 miles north
For emergencies, Raleigh Fire Station 1 and the Raleigh Police Department are both within a mile. You're well-covered here!
Mordecai Place's Location Overview
Mordecai Place enjoys excellent highway access, making it convenient for residents to navigate the Raleigh-Durham area and beyond.
Highway Access
Mordecai Place is perfectly situated for easy travel. You're just a stone's throw from:
These routes can get you anywhere in the Triangle in a jiffy!
Commute Times and Suggested Routes
| Destination | Commute Time | Route |
|---|---|---|
| RDU Airport | 20-25 minutes | via I-440 W |
| Downtown Durham | 30-35 minutes | via I-40 W |
| Downtown Raleigh | You're already there! | 5-10 minute walk or quick drive |
| RTP | 25-30 minutes | via I-40 W |
