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This captivating color lithograph from 1875 offers a glimpse into the dynamic life of Davenport, Iowa, a vibrant city on the Mississippi River with, at the time, a population of 25,000. Created by Frank I. Jervis and published by Jervis & Wolfe, in Davenport, the image was beautifully lithographed by the National Lithographic Institute of Chicago.
From the viewpoint of the Arsenal Tower on the east side of the Mississippi, the panorama reveals an industrious cityscape teeming with activity. The mighty Mississippi River, a key trade and transport route, bustles with vessels. The long, impressively engineered railroad bridge that spans the river is a testament to the city's interconnectedness and the significance of rail transport during this era.
Davenport itself is a hive of economic activity, as evidenced by numerous smokestacks piercing the sky. These chimneys, coupled with the scattering of industrial buildings, signal a thriving manufacturing sector, a hallmark of the city's prosperity at the time.
The lithograph also highlights the dichotomy between the industrial and residential areas of Davenport. Overlooking the industrious riverfront and the city are stately homes perched on the bluffs, providing a serene contrast to the bustling city below. These grand residences symbolize the city's affluence and the prosperity of its residents during this period.
In essence, this lithographic view of Davenport from 1875 serves as a valuable historical document. It provides a vibrant snapshot of a thriving city on the Mississippi, capturing its economic vitality, architectural grandeur, and lively riverfront activities.
The description of the city is given in both England and German, highlighting the attractiveness of the region to German immigrants and a large existing local population for whom German was their first language.
Rarity
Rare. Not in Reps, Views and Viewmakers. Not traced in OCLC.
Davenport was a popular city for American viewmakers during the middle of the 19th century. This view is recorded in Reps, Cities of the Mississippi, but it is hard to trace in the other standard works on this subject.
