What does the term "heritage colors" mean to you, especially when it comes to historic districts in village and towns? Some people expect it to be nothing but shades of white, with perhaps trim in black or forest green. However, when stripping down old layers of paint from years ago, surprizes can lay ahead. Deep reds, vibrant yellows, cool blues, and even some white houses with forest green trim prevail in the Phelps area. Whoever thought "Village Tavern Yellow", "Pink Mimosa", or "Dressing Table Blue" would be colors?

The architecture in Phelps is quite varied. The village, incorporated in 1855, has been settled for much longer than that. There are many Victorian, Greek Revival, and Colonial style houses throughout the area, as well as more modern architectural styles, such as houses from the Arts & Crafts era of the early 20th century.