Cedar Falls was known as "Garden City" and "Lawn City" for the well-kept lawns and tree-lined streets of its quiet residential areas. Although it was initially settled by families relocating from eastern and midwestern states, after the Civil War the city's population boomed with immigrants from Denmark, Germany, France, and Ireland. Danish settlers were especially drawn to Cedar Falls, where the Dannervirke, a Danish language newspaper, was published from 1882-1954. The Victorian and Queen Anne houses still standing on Washington Street reflect 19th and 20th century gracious living. Built by successful businessmen of the community, these homes have been well maintained as private residences. Across from Overman Park, the Barnum Bryant Dempster house, constructed in 1861, is now home to the Cedar Falls Historical Society, and the Townsend Knapp home, built in 1867, is home to the Cedar Falls Woman's Club. They are among the oldest homes in the city.