Riverview Terrace Historic District: A Glimpse into Davenport's Past

Riverview Terrace Historic District, nestled in Davenport, Iowa, offers a captivating journey into the city's architectural heritage. This 15.2-acre district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1984, is significant for its well-preserved late 19th and early 20th-century homes.The neighborhood, originally named Burrow's Bluff and Lookout Park, is unique for its development around a central park. Riverview Terrace Park, a three-acre green space on a steep hill, provides panoramic views of the Mississippi River and Rock Island, Illinois. The park has coin-operated binoculars to enhance the view.The district's architecture reflects the styles popular in Davenport during its period of growth. Stroll along Clay Street to admire the diverse designs, from the grand Italianate, Georgian, and Federal-style houses near the park to the more modest Bungalow and American Craftsman homes further afield. Many streets retain their original brick paving, adding to the historic charm.Originally, the area was home to prominent German-American families who played a key role in Davenport's commercial and industrial development. The first house in the district, built in 1853, was the Italianate-style home of J.M.D Burrows.Today, Riverview Terrace offers a peaceful escape and a chance to appreciate Davenport's rich history and architectural beauty.