Aneighborhood is defined as "people living near one another," an antiseptic term applicable to most any subdivision. But it's also more personally called "a section lived in by neighbors (i.e, fellowmen) and usually having distinguishing characteristics." Here, Wagener Terrace would surely qualify.

This multiblock sector of the city peninsula north of Hampton Park has dozens of modest-sized houses built as far back as the 1930s. They sit on tiny bluffs with neatly trimmed yards. The community's homeowners association has, over the years, been a unified voice on neighborhood issues. Yet Wagener Terrace is far from homogenous. Homes are one-story or two-story; brick, wood frame, stone or stucco; colorful or plain; newly restored or renewed in retro styles. Residents are young families and senior couples, transplants and natives, blacks and whites.

In short, Wagener Terrace is a true "neighborhood." And it's catching on as a popular place to live.

"I think you can see how homes are being refurbished," said Carolyn Parsons, agent with Prudential Carolina Real Estate. "Some of the people in their 30s and 40s are appreciating the 1930's era construction, how solid the homes are built." There are a few small apartment complexes and condominiums, but the vast majority of homes are single-family.

Many houses have perks such as hardwood floors, nine-foot smooth ceilings, ceramic tile and fireplaces. Houses can be pricey but not as expensive as further downtown. One 2,229-square-foot home is for sale for $345,000. A 3,150-square-foot home with six bedrooms is on the market for $569,000. Live oaks and other large shade trees dot yards, while sidewalks line both sides of the streets.

Along with the aesthetic features, Wagener Terrace has some practical advantages. The biggest? "I think location,"

Parsons said. The neighborhood is near the city hospital district and is in walking -- or at least bike riding -- distance of Hampton Park. The multiacre park has jogging trails and bike lanes, and on many weekends hosts festivals and shows. Being so close by, it is like having a park within the neighborhood.

Abutting the community are The Citadel campus and College Park baseball stadium, former home of Charleston's minor league baseball teams. And it's a mile or so from the Crosstown and on ramps to Interstate 26 and the new Ravenel Bridge.

Everything from shopping centers to small neighborhood stores are close by. A Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority line has stops on Rutledge Avenue that goes downtown and uptown. In fact, Wagener Terrace is one of the few local neighborhoods where owning a car is indeed an option rather than a necessity.

Myra Thompson has lived in the neighborhood for 25 years, raising two children. She's the third owner of a brick house built in 1935.

"It's a neighborhood where you want to raise your children," she said. "I like the sereneness." She can take leisurely walks by herself, or brisk walks with friends. Her neighbors, both long-time and new, are sociable.

One trend she has noticed: An increasing volume of homes are owned by parents of students at Charleston's colleges and universities. The students are identifiable by their backpacks and 10-speed bicycles riding to and from school.

Another newer feature is that residents are building decks or sunrooms at the back of their houses to give them privacy. But it complements a feature found on most all homes, one that encourages the neighborhood's sense of community. Wagener Terrace, she said, is a neighborhood of front porches, "where people sit out or read a good book."

To reach Wagener Terrace from downtown Charleston, travel north of the Crosstown on Ashley Avenue or neighboring arteries. Pass Hampton Park. The neighborhood is located roughly between the park on the south, the Ashley River on the west, Rutledge Avenue to the east and Sunnyside Avenue to the north.