...researching Plaza-Midwood is going to be fun!

Here's a brief bit of history about PM:

Plaza-Midwood neighborhood is comprised of some of Charlotte's streetcar suburbs.  In 1914, Paul Chatham began development of a residential area similar to E.D. Latta's Dilworth, the original streetcar development.  Named Chatham Estates, large lots for spacious houses were provided along  what is now The Plaza boulevard for streetcar and automobile service.  Later developments would be added, such as Midwood.  The area also included a commercial strip down Central Avenue once considered the "Miracle Mile" of Charlotte shopping destinations.

However, post-WWII residential and commercial development emphasized new, modern amenities and transportation focused on the automobile.  Like many older urban neighborhoods, Midwood and its surrounding areas steadily deteriorated until the 1970s, when concerned citizens came together to revitalize their diverse, historic area.  Rebranding the neighborhood as Plaza-Midwood, they worked to improve city services and bring new business as well as aid older and less-fortunate neighbors in maintaining their property.

Today, Plaza-Midwood is one of the more desirable and diverse neighborhoods in Charlotte.

Links:
Plaza-Midwood Neighborhood Association
Plaza-Midwood neighborhood survey by Tom Hanchett
Walking tour of the neighborhood
Map of Plaza-Midwood National Historic District

Local Landmarks in Plaza-Midwood:
Bishop John C. Kilgo House (1914)
Newcombe-McElwee House (1935)
Victor Shaw House (ca. 1928)
Van Landingham Estate (1914)
Victoria (1895)