How to Use
the Maps

Table of
Contents

Key for Map 1

A. The Taft family's Mount Auburn address.
B. The Taft family's downtown address prior to 1851.
C. Alphonso Taft's law office address.
The square identifies the approximate boundaries of the business district.

Questions for Map 1

1. Locate the suburb of Mount Auburn. Alphonso Taft moved from his home at Fourth and Vine streets (downtown) to Mount Auburn in 1851. What were the advantages and disadvantages of living downtown? Why might Alphonso Taft have moved his family from downtown to Mount Auburn? Why do families move to residential suburbs today? Are the motives different?

2. The Tafts' new home was still located only one mile from Alphonso's downtown law practice at Third and Sycamore streets. What means of transportation would have been available during the middle of the 19th century? Why was it important to reside close to your work?