The developers of the greater Houston Heights wanted a picturesque, wide boulevard to be the gateway into and through the new neighborhood.  This early postcard stated that "The BOULEVARD, the fashionable driveway to the Houston Heights is at 62 feet above sea level.   The stately pines, giant oaks and fragrant magnolias bordering the wide road on either side are of tropical luxuriance. The homes of the wealthy residents skirt the Boulevard."     Prominent families including the Heights' developers built large, Victorian mansions along the Boulevard which was considered the premier address to have. Sunday afternoons would find well dressed folks promenading along the esplanade either on foot or in horse drawn carriages.    

Photo credit:  MSS0187-0120, Houston Public Library, HMRC