Preserving our historical legacies and creating sustainable development!
On March 19, 2002, John Lewis Community Services received the deed to the John De Macklot’ House from Mayor Charles Brooke who represented the City of Davenport in the conveyance of ownership from the City to JLCS, Inc. The De Macklot’ House located at 909 W. 3rd Street is one of the earliest structures still standing in the City of Davenport which ties our past to the present. The original purpose of this home was to provide affordable housing to a variety of laborers who came to Davenport for the many factory and mill jobs along the Mississippi River.
John Lewis Property Services has developed plans to restore this historically significant structure built in the 1850’s. Consultation will be provided by the Davenport Historic Preservation Commission in regard to the restoration process. The exterior of the building will be restored to its original style. The interior through the years has been altered for various uses. JLCS will create eight one-bedroom apartments which will restore it to original use of affordable housing for working individuals.
JLCS, has secured $500,000 in funding for this project with a commitment from the City of Davenport HOME Program of $200,000, the State of Iowa Local Housing Assistance Program of $250,000 and the Iowa Emergency Jobs Program with a labor contrinbution of $50,000. Over the years the De Macklot’ House has primarily been utilized as housing for laborers and eventually elderly women. It’s most recent use being the site for the Architectural Salvage Warehouse. The warehouse was utilized to store and resell salvaged (from local buildings) items of architectural and historical significance to those seeking to renovate of rehabilitate structures of a similar age.
Historical Facts about the De Macklot’ House:
The architectural style of the De Macklot’ Row Houses is a relatively well-preserved example of row house architecture in Davenport. It is a simplified Greek Revival style which is utilitarian, but not unattractive. Pilasters articulate the entrances, corners, and party wall between the buildings.
Located in the Third Street Historic District which contains a significant concentration of historical residential structures. Its owner in the late 1860’s and1870’s was John Guldner, who was a laborer, according to the city directory listings. Although somewhat simple in its design, the 909 West 3rd structure is one of the few examples of row house architecture in Davenport.
