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Author Archives: SCblogger
Alexander Clark of the First Iowa African Infantry
Who would have thought that a man from the small town of Muscatine, Iowa, would have been the first person to offer to raise African American troops to serve in the Iowa regiment during the Civil War? First, one probably … Continue reading
Posted in Local History
Tagged African-Americans, Alexander Clark, Civil War, First Regiment Iowa African Infantry
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Time to Talk Turkey (Notes)
Yes, it’s that time of year, when we in SC nag request Turkey Notes from library staff and present them to you. You’re welcome! If you aren’t aware of the Turkey Note tradition, our best explanation is here. But honestly, … Continue reading
What’s in a Name? The Annie Wittenmyer Home
On November 16, 1865, one hundred and fifty orphans arrived in Davenport to take up residence of the newly established Soldiers’ Orphans’ Home. Over the years, evolved and expanded over the years as the original residents grew up, eventually accepting … Continue reading
Posted in Local History
Tagged Annie Wittenmyer, Annie Wittenmyer Home, Iowa Soldiers' Orphans' Home, place names
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The Library Will Be Closed for Veterans Day!
The Davenport Public Library will be closed Monday, November 12, to honor those who fought so that we can be free. However, the Special Collections Center will be open Sunday, November 11, from 1 — 4pm for genealogy and local … Continue reading
The Annexation Vote of 1957
At the municipal election on November 5th, 1957, the citizens of Davenport voted on a proposal to annex two separate areas totaling 28 square miles to the City of Davenport. The first area covered 11 square miles west of the … Continue reading
Just Shelved: Family Trees, Hoosier Histories, and a Generous Legacy
Donald and Marietta Southwood were both long-time supporters of our Special Collections Center. They worked countless volunteer hours indexing and organizing resources and assisting patrons with their research. Mrs. Southwood passed away April 1, 2005, and Mr. Southwood followed on … Continue reading
Posted in Genealogy, Library, Local History
Tagged Donald Southwood, Just Shelved, Marietta Southwood, new resources, Resources
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Local History Film Screening–and More!
As part of our 30th anniversary celebration, we will be having a special screening of local history film footage from our Archive & Manuscript Collections. The films will be shown this Saturday, October 20th at 1:30pm in the Film Room, … Continue reading
Unique State Historical Society of Wisconsin Resources Shared at SC Anniversary Conference
As part of Special Collections’ 30th Anniversary celebration we are having an all day genealogy and local history extravaganza this Saturday Oct 20. For those of you interested in genealogy, or if you’re just looking for things to do in … Continue reading
Posted in Local History
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Oct 14 Genealogy Night Cancelled
Due to low registration our fall Genealogy Night even has been cancelled. Remember, in addition to our regular hours, Special Collections will be open for Genealogy and Local History research on Sunday, November 11 from 1-4PM. Please contact Special Collections … Continue reading
Posted in Local History
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