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Oak Lane Historic District: A Glimpse into Davenport's Past

Discover Davenport's architectural heritage in the charming Oak Lane Historic District, a showcase of early 20th-century homes and styles.

The Oak Lane Historic District in Davenport, Iowa, is a charming residential area showcasing early 20th-century architecture. Developed between 1900 and 1910, the district features a variety of architectural styles, reflecting the transition from Victorian to Colonial Revival influences.

A brief summary to Oak Lane Historic District

  • 16 Oak Ln, Davenport, Iowa, 52803, US

Local tips

  • Take a walk along Oak Lane to admire the diverse architectural styles, including Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, and Georgian Revival.
  • Notice the variations in house sizes and styles, reflecting the social and economic diversity of the neighborhood's early residents.
  • Explore the nearby Village of East Davenport for more historical sites and local shops.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of East Locust Street and Brady Street in Davenport, head east on East Locust Street. Continue for approximately four blocks until you reach Oak Lane. Turn right onto Oak Lane. The Oak Lane Historic District encompasses the houses along Oak Lane between East Locust Street and High Street.

  • Public Transport

    Citibus, Davenport's public transportation system, has several routes that stop near the Oak Lane Historic District. Check the Citibus website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. From a Citibus stop on East Locust Street, walk north or south on Oak Lane to explore the historic district. A single ride fare is $1.00.

  • Driving

    From downtown Davenport, take East Locust Street east. Turn north onto Oak Lane. The Oak Lane Historic District encompasses the houses along Oak Lane between East Locust Street and High Street. Street parking is available, but be aware of any parking restrictions. Free on-street parking is typically limited to two hours. Several public parking lots are available in downtown Davenport, with hourly rates of $0.75.

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Discover more about Oak Lane Historic District

The Oak Lane Historic District, nestled on the east side of Davenport, Iowa, offers a captivating journey back to the early 1900s. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1984, this residential enclave showcases a blend of architectural styles that defined the turn of the 20th century. Developed by real estate entrepreneur Amos Cutter between 1900 and 1910, the Oak Lane Addition transformed former agricultural land into a prosperous, middle-class neighborhood. The district encompasses 27 houses, most of which line Oak Lane between High Street and East Locust Street. The architecture reflects a transition from Victorian styles, particularly Queen Anne, to the emerging Colonial Revival styles. Notably, the three prominent houses along East Locust Street exemplify Davenport's Georgian Revival/Federal style. The oldest house, an Italianate at 10 Oak Lane, dates back to 1875. The newest, at 36 Oak Lane, was built around 1922. Oak Lane mirrored Davenport's evolving identity, moving away from European ethnic divisions towards a more unified American profile. The neighborhood's development also signified the city's expansion away from the Mississippi River, facilitated by the growing streetcar lines. The houses closer to Locust Street, a major streetcar route, were larger and more stylish, housing well-to-do professionals. In contrast, the more modest houses near High Street accommodated salesmen, clerks, and blue-collar workers. Architect-designed homes include the Georgian Revival house at 17 Oak Lane by Chicago architect William A. Otis and the Oscar Woods House at 720 East Locust Street by Davenport architect Gustav Hanssen. Today, the Oak Lane Historic District stands as a testament to Davenport's architectural heritage and its early 20th-century development. A leisurely stroll through the district offers a glimpse into the lives of its past residents and the styles that shaped their homes.

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