Colonel Davenport Historical House, Rock Island

About Colonel Davenport Historical House

Colonel Davenport Historical House on Arsenal Island preserves an 1833 mansion where visitors tour the oldest permanent residence in the region and learn about Colonel George Davenport's enterprises as a fur trader, keelboat operator, lead mine operator, and postmaster. The house sits on Arsenal Island, where Davenport arrived in 1816 with the U.S. Army to establish Fort Armstrong. The Colonel Davenport Historical Foundation operates guided tours through the restored rooms and furnishings, offers group visits and field trips, and hosts seasonal events including Arsenal Appreciation Days, Ride the Island, Ghost Tales, and Birdies for Charity activities. The attraction opens Friday and Saturday afternoons. Children 12 years and under receive free admission, while the foundation publishes admission prices for other visitors on its website at davenporthouse.org.