Four families built their own village, spending $50,000 each 70 years ago. Take a rare look inside the idyllic enclave.

• In 1957, four Oregon families hired a locally famous architect to build them a mini-neighborhood.
• There were 12 kids among the families, and one fondly remembered growing up in the little village.
• Take a look inside the still-mint-condition homes, defined by wood details and lush landscaping.

In 1957, four families based in Portland, Oregon, moved into a village of their own making.

Each couple paid less than $50,000 for a brand-new home designed by an up-and-coming midcentury architect, according to The Oregonian, a local newspaper.