Dils–Downer House Explained

Dils–Downer House
Coordinates:41.5353°N -90.5606°W
Area:less than one acre
Built:1898
Builder:Thomas M. Dils
Added:July 7, 1983
Refnum:83002422

The Dils–Downer House is a historic building located on the eastside of Davenport, Iowa, United States. The Shingle Style Bungalow has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1983.

History

The house was built in 1898 by Thomas M. Dils, who was a local contractor and builder. He died in 1902 and his wife sold the house to Harry and Alice Downer. He worked as a school teacher and principal before he became a settlement house worker. Downer is most noteworthy for his two-volume historical work, History of Davenport and Scott County, Iowa.[1] He resided in this house when he prepared and published the work in 1910.

Architecture

The 1½-story structure is a side-gable Craftsman cottage with a long side wing. It features two dormers built in the Shingle Style. Many of the windows also feature diamond-shaped lights.[1]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: [{{NRHP url|id=83002422}} Dils–Downer House]. National Park Service. 2015-02-14. Martha Bowers. Marlys Svendsen. with