Welcome to Frick’s Tavern, a cornerstone of history nestled in the West End of Davenport, Iowa. This two-story brick building, standing proudly on the corner of West Third and Fillmore Streets, has been a silent witness to the changing tides of time since its construction in 1872. Over the years, it has served many purposes, from a bakery to a barbershop, but perhaps its most enduring role has been as a tavern, a tradition dating back to 1876.
The tavern’s story is deeply intertwined with the German-American community that thrived in this area. Charles Frick, a key figure in its history, opened the tavern in 1888. For three generations, the Frick family operated the tavern, living above it in the apartments that once occupied the second floor. The Frick family wasn’t just providing drinks; they were creating a social hub for the local community. Floy Frick, a notable member of the family, even maintained a garden in the back, adding a personal touch to the establishment.
As you walk by, imagine the lively conversations that filled the air as patrons gathered here, sharing stories and laughter, perhaps discussing the latest news over a cold drink. The building itself is a testament to the Italianate architectural style, with its bracketed eaves and flat-arched windows, features that have endured through its extensive renovations, including the most recent one in 2016, which transformed the upstairs apartments into a barroom.
Frick’s Tavern has been more than just a place to grab a drink; it has been a constant in a community shaped by its German heritage and its proximity to the bustling industrial areas along the Mississippi River. Even today, as you pass by, you can sense the echoes of the past, a reminder of the tavern’s role in the social fabric of Davenport’s West End.
