Jefferson's pride in the historic preservation of the downtown area can also be seen in residential neighborhoods.  As you drive or stroll through the streets, you will see that many of Jefferson's beautiful homes date back to the mid 1800s, and have been well maintained and restored back to near-original condition.  Residential streets in the older sections of town are lined with mature trees that provide a breathtaking show of colors as the seasons change. New homes and subdivisions have developed on the northwest, northeast and southeast sides of town (including several multi-family units) to accommodate the city's growing population.  Although the community has grown and prospered, it still has the serene and tranquil atmosphere of a small country town.