Welcome to the Riverview Terrace Historic District, a charming slice of history nestled in the heart of Davenport, Iowa. This district, spanning over 15 acres, offers a window into the architectural and cultural tapestry of late 19th and early 20th-century America. Originally known as Burrow’s Bluff and Lookout Park, the area was developed with a unique vision, focusing on a central park that would serve as the neighborhood’s heart.
The district’s story begins with J.M.D. Burrows, an early settler who arrived in Davenport around 1838. In 1853, he built the area’s first and most prominent house, Clifton, an Italianate mansion. Clifton still stands today, bearing witness to the architectural trends of its time, with its Italianate style enhanced by Greek Revival elements. Sadly, Burrows faced financial difficulties following the Panic of 1857, leading him to mortgage Clifton to Antoine LeClaire, another key figure in Davenport’s history.
As the neighborhood evolved in the 1880s, it became home to influential German-American families who played vital roles in Davenport’s commercial growth. Among them were the Schrickers, Muellers, and Petersens, each contributing to sectors like banking, merchandising, and manufacturing. The district showcases an array of architectural styles, including Italian Villa, Georgian Revival, and Federal styles, reflecting the diverse influences of its inhabitants.
Riverview Terrace is not just about its buildings. The central Riverview Terrace Park, once known as Lookout Park, offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and Rock Island, Illinois. Acquired by the city’s parks commission in 1894, the park was part of a broader initiative to develop public spaces in Davenport, promoting community and leisure.
The district’s charm is further enhanced by its brick streets and the more modest Bungalow and American Craftsman homes that line its western edges. These homes tell the story of a neighborhood that embraced both grandeur and simplicity, catering to a diverse community.
As you explore Riverview Terrace, imagine the lively gatherings at Clifton, the business discussions held by the Schrickers, and the serene strolls through the park that have connected generations. This district is more than a collection of buildings; it’s a living narrative of the people who shaped it and the city of Davenport.
