Once described as "the most German city," Davenport is full of historic, German buildings, many of which are found along the German American Heritage Center and Museum's walking tours. This year, the center and museum on West Second Street celebrates 30 years. However, the city's German roots run much deeper than that.
Formerly known as The Standard Hotel, the GAHCM building was built in the 1860s, housing thousands of German immigrants. The building was occupied by many other businesses before it was purchased by GAHCM in the mid 1990s. Also previously known as Miller's Hotel and The Germania House, Brian Allen, executive director of the GAHCM, said the building is the last remaining immigrant hotel of the period in the area.
Many downtown Davenport buildings and homes were once occupied by German residents and business owners. Allen said by the 1900s, over half of the state of Iowa's residents were German immigrants or descendants. This summer, the GAHCM continued its tradition of hosting Historic Summer Walking Tours, with 16 stops throughout Davenport.
LaDella Gallagher, volunteer tour guide, has conducted tours for three years. The next Historic Summer Walking Tour will be held on Saturday, July 6, with a sitting tour scheduled for Sunday, July 21. The tour costs $5.
Gallagher said the tour consists of three parts. Starting at the GAHCM building, the tour first weaves through downtown Davenport, with some stops just down the road from the center. LaDella Gallagher talks .
