Adrian Hubbard Davenport's Father was Marmaduke Simms Davenport, born 1784 in Virginia and died in LeClaire, Iowa in 1872. Marmaduke's burial site has not been located. Adrian Hubbard Davenport's Grandfather was Adrian Davenport, Sr., son of Abraham Davenport.
from "History of Scott County, Iowa"(1882) Chicago-Interstate Publishing Co. :
One of the most prominent men in Scott County during the first years of its existence was Adrian H. Davenport, who was born in Shawneetown, Ill, March 14, 1812, the son of Marmaduke S. Davenport. His father was appointed Indian agent on Rock Island in 1832, and it was then that the family came to the island to live. Adrian H. was married on the island in 1833 to Miss Harriet Lane. Mrs. Davenport proved to be one of the best of wives and mothers, and he survived her loss less than a year, she dying in June, 1880. In March 1834, Adrian Davenport made a claim at Rockingham, and he, his father, his Uncle James, and Col. John Sullivan became proprietors of the site, and laid out the town, while Adrian established a Mississippi ferry between Rockingham, and the mouth of the Rock River, which was opposite. He kept a general store at Rockingham, and did a very large business. He was the moving spirit in Rockingham until along in 1840, when Davenport was established as the county seat, and the desertion of Rockingham commenced, the leading spirits aside from Mr. Davenport striking out for Davenport.
In 1847 he, with his father, removed to Le Claire, where they had acquired considerable property. Mr. Davenport soon became the leading man in Le Claire; was the first mayor of the town, and was re-elected every spring for several years.
After Mr. Davenport moved to Le Claire he became engaged in river business, and for years was captain of the finest steamboats on the upper Mississippi.
Capt. A.H. Davenport was appointed sheriff of Scott County, Iowa, in 1838, by Gov. Lucas, to succeed Maj. Frazer Wilson, who was the first sheriff of the county appointed by Gov. Dodge, under the territorial government of Wisconsin. Capt. Davenport served under this appointment till 1839, when the office of sheriff was made elective by a change in the original law of the territory. Capt. Davenport was then elected and re-elected every two years till 1846, when, under law, he could serve no longer. The Captain then retired to private life and in 1847 moved from Rockingham to Le Claire and became largely interested in the latter town. He bought the machinery of the Rockingham Steam Mill and brought it to Le Claire in 1848 and erected a steam flouring and saw mill, and in company with Mr. Samuel Lyter engaged extensively in a general mercantile business. M. Lyter was succeeded by Mr. Robert Christie. The mill erected by Capt. Davenport burned down in a year or two after it was built, and he, in company with R.H. Rogers, James Jack, and Winchester Sherman, built a much more extensive flouring mill on the same site and also built the saw-mill now owned by Mr. Strabbun. Capt. Davenport was also one of a company who built the "boat ways' in Le Claire.
On the 11th of May, 1880, Capt. Davenport was stricken with paralysis, and for a month after his life hung in the balance; but recovered only to experience a similar attack a few days before his death, which occurred March 27, 1881, at his home in Le Claire. Six children were left - J.H. and W.A., esteemed citizens of Le Claire; Mrs. Anna E. Hewitt, of Marion; Mrs. Sarah McCaffrey and Mrs. Elvira Gardner, of Le Claire; and Mrs. Virginia Henderson, of Princeton.
Thanks to Find A Grave member Collene Family Finder for the following three newspaper items:
DAVENPORT.
Word comes from LeClaire that Capt. A. H. Davenport, who last summer suffered from a stroke of paralysis, and during the winter partially recovered from it, is again lying quite low.
Source: Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 26 Mar 1881, p.4.
THE OTHER SHORE
The Bark of Captain A. M. Davenport Moored There--One of the Oldest and Most Prominent Citizens of the County Goes Hence--Sketch of His Eventful Career.
A man who, during the first twenty years of the settlement of Scott county, was one of the most prominent citizens in this county, as in business and public offices he was probably the most important and widely known, died at his home in LeClaire at one o'clock Sunday afternoon--Adrian H. Davenport. It was on the 11th of May last, that Captain Davenport was stricken with paralysis, and for a month after his life hung in the balance; but he recovered, only to experience a similar attack one day last week, and this proved fatal.
What an interesting sketch of the early history of this region of Illinois and Iowa Captain Davenport could have written had he set himself to it.
He was born in Shawneetown, Ill., March 14, 1812, the son of Marmaduke S. Davenport. His father was appointed Indian agent on Rock Island in 1832, and it was then that his family came to the island to live.
Adrian H. was married on the island in 1833 to Miss HARRIET LANE, who came here with the family, the ceremony being performed by Col. George Davenport, as U. S. official, there being no other person with authority to do so between Galena and Warsaw. Mrs. Davenport proved one of the best of wives and mothers--and he has survived her loss less than a year, for she died in June 1880.
In March, 1834, Adrian Davenport made a claim on Credit island (now known as Offermann's island), built a home thereon, and lived there for two or three years--and was there joined by his father, whose Indian agency on the island had been removed to Green Bay, Wis. On the island Adrian Davenport's first son was born--the second male child born in Scott county. In March, 1834.
Adrian Davenport made a claim at Rockingham--and he, his father, his uncle James, and Col. John Sullivan, became proprietors of the site, and laid out the town, while Adrian established a ferry between Rockingham and the mouth of Rock river, which was opposite.
He kept a general store at Rockingham, and did a very large business. When he settled there, there were only two houses on the site, and he occupied one of them. He was the moving spirit in Rockingham until along 1840, when Davenport was established as the county seat, or rather the court house was built here, which was in 1840--and the desertion of Rockingham commenced, the leading spirits, aside from Mr. Davenport striking out for Davenport.
This was a serious matter for Adrian H. He was now sheriff of Scott county, which included the present county of Clinton, an office to which he was elected in 1839 as the successor of Major Wilson, who was appointed Sheriff by Governor Lucas, and he maintained his office at Rockingham. But it was of no use, and the public spirited merchant and citizen came to Davenport himself in the early forties.
After Clinton county was partitioned off, Mr. Davenport was continued in the Shrievalty of Scott county--and filled the office until 1847, when he was succeeded by Harvey Leonard, and he ,with his father, removed to LeClaire, where they had acquired considerable property.
He served as a volunteer through the Blackhawk war as first lieutenant under Gen. Posey.
Mr. Davenport's father died in LeClaire in 1872.
Mr. Davenport and Mr. Leonard have the honor of being the only Democrats who have filled the office of Sheriff of this county.
Mr. Davenport soon became the leading man in LeClaire-- was the first Mayor of the town, and was re-elected every spring for several years. Everybody respected him, for everybody knew he would do only what he thought was right. He did a large business at his store, was a sort of general adviser for people in trouble, everybody went to him for advise and help.
He filled, also, the office of Justice of the Peace and township trustee, and School Director.
His acquaintance at LeClaire did not commence, however, with his removal there - for as far back as 1837, he and Samuel Lyter had a store there, Mr. L. attending to the business.
But for thirty years LeClaire has been his home -- and never was a man or family more highly esteemed in a town than Adrian H. Davenport and family have been in LeClaire.
After Mr. Davenport moved to LeClaire he became engaged in river business, and for years was captain of the finest steamboats on the upper Mississippi--packets such as the Audubon, Lynx and Franklin, which were famous in their day.
One pleasant day week before last he went out to take a cutter ride, the cutter was upset, and he was cast into the snow, taking a severe cold. He went home chilled--his former ailment returned, and so he lay until he died.
Six children are living--;
J. H. and W. A., esteemed citizens of LeClaire, Mrs. Anna E. Hewitt of Chicago,
Mrs. Sarah McCaffrey and
Mrs. Elvira Gardner of LeClaire, and
Mrs. Virginia Henderson, of Princeton.
The funeral will take place tomorrow (Tuesday) forenoon at half-past ten o'clock.
Source: The Davenport Democrat, Davenport, Ia., 28 Mar 1881, p.1.
THE VETERAN PIONEER
Death of Captain A. H. Davenport, of LeClaire.
The First White Settler to Locale in Scott County.
The First Marriage Ceremony Performed in Rock Island County--A Useful and Active Life--Sketch of the Deceased.
Captain A. H. Davenport died at his home in Le Claire, at 1:45 o'clock yesterday afternoon, March 27, aged 67 years and 13 days.
The deceased enjoyed the honor during life of being the first white settler of Scott county. Last summer Capt. Davenport was afflicted by a paralytic shock from the effects of which he never fully rallied. His life was even despaired at that time, but his sturdy energies refused to yield. He continued to improve until the cold weather when his health began failing again. On Friday last he was much worse and The Gazette of Saturday stated his position as being critical. In his death another of those who braved the danger of the early times, who in his active life was well known, and who has left a name that will be perpetuated, is borne away.
Capt. Davenport was born at Shawneetown, Illinois, March 14, 1812, and as we have said was the first American to feast his eyes upon the prairies of this locality. He was also the first white settler married in what is now Rock Island county, though at that time it was of course without a name. The ceremony was performed on the Island, Col. George Davenport officiating, March 30, 1833. He fought against the redskins all though the Black Hawk war, serving as First Lieutenant under General Posey. Again Captain Davenport was the first sheriff of Scott county, being, we believe twice elected to that office, thus holding it for three terms. Early in his western experience he lived on Credit Island, from there he went to Rockingham, being the first merchant to open a store in that region. When enough of the early settlers had gathered to organize the society of the Pioneer Settlers of Scott County, he was made its first Vice-President.
Perhaps the most active years of the deceased were passed at Le Claire, whose first Mayor Capt. Davenport was. In the spring of 1848 the firm of Davenport, Rogers & Co., began the erection of the first steam saw mill in that place. It's location was just below the present site of the boat yard there. Two years later, or in 1850, a large flouring mill was built adjoining the saw mill. In 1851 they were both destroyed by fire. The same firm engaged about this time in the grocery, dry goods and general line. Their trade soon grew into immense proportions. Farmers for 25 and 30 miles around on both sides of the river found that they could trade with most satisfaction with Davenport, Rogers & Co., of Le Claire. It was in 1850 or thereabouts that Capt. Davenport built the Rapids saw mill on the site of the one burned down last October. The same year he bought of Antoine Le Claire, the tract of land known as "Le Claire's Reserve." This was north of the present city of Le Claire and between that and the town of Parkhurst. It was laid out into lots, as was also Davenport and Roger's addition. These, the "Reserve," Parkhurst and the "addition", were consolidated into what is now the City of Le Claire. In 1857 he built the Davenport block which contained the first public hall Le Claire ever saw. In 1862 the subject of this sketch embarked in the clothing business..
The veteran pioneer earned his rank and title of "Captain" on the river. From 1850 to 1860 his connection with steam boating continued. He was a part or sole owner of the Uncle Toby, a St. Louis and Galena packet, the Audubon, Envoy, Kentucky, Courier, and many other boats. He was also one of the original stockholders in the company that constructed the Le Claire boat ways.
Of all the vigorous men who have settled in the good county of Scott, early or late, there are few who have been so industrious in prosecuting business on a large and successful scale as Capt. A. H. Davenport, or who have made more friends. He was bold in planning and zealous in executing. His death will be mourned by the great number who knew him, and it will efface from local history another landmark long prominent.
Six children survive him--two sons and four daughters. A. H. Davenport and W. A. Davenport are merchants of Le Claire. The oldest daughter is Mrs. Ann Eliza Hewitt, who was married in Davenport and whose husband was long a prominent merchant here. She now resides in Chicago. Another daughter is Mrs. Sarah Jane McCaffrey, of Le Claire. A third is Mrs. Elvira Gardner, a widow, now living at Le Claire. The fourth is Mrs. Virginia Henderson, whose home is at Princeton.
The funeral of Capt. Davenport will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Source: The Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 28 Mar 1881, p. 4.
The funeral of the late Col. A. H. Davenport, of LeClaire occurs at his homestead this afternoon at two o'clock.
Source: Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 29 Mar 1881,
from "History of Scott County, Iowa"(1882) Chicago-Interstate Publishing Co. :
One of the most prominent men in Scott County during the first years of its existence was Adrian H. Davenport, who was born in Shawneetown, Ill, March 14, 1812, the son of Marmaduke S. Davenport. His father was appointed Indian agent on Rock Island in 1832, and it was then that the family came to the island to live. Adrian H. was married on the island in 1833 to Miss Harriet Lane. Mrs. Davenport proved to be one of the best of wives and mothers, and he survived her loss less than a year, she dying in June, 1880. In March 1834, Adrian Davenport made a claim at Rockingham, and he, his father, his Uncle James, and Col. John Sullivan became proprietors of the site, and laid out the town, while Adrian established a Mississippi ferry between Rockingham, and the mouth of the Rock River, which was opposite. He kept a general store at Rockingham, and did a very large business. He was the moving spirit in Rockingham until along in 1840, when Davenport was established as the county seat, and the desertion of Rockingham commenced, the leading spirits aside from Mr. Davenport striking out for Davenport.
In 1847 he, with his father, removed to Le Claire, where they had acquired considerable property. Mr. Davenport soon became the leading man in Le Claire; was the first mayor of the town, and was re-elected every spring for several years.
After Mr. Davenport moved to Le Claire he became engaged in river business, and for years was captain of the finest steamboats on the upper Mississippi.
Capt. A.H. Davenport was appointed sheriff of Scott County, Iowa, in 1838, by Gov. Lucas, to succeed Maj. Frazer Wilson, who was the first sheriff of the county appointed by Gov. Dodge, under the territorial government of Wisconsin. Capt. Davenport served under this appointment till 1839, when the office of sheriff was made elective by a change in the original law of the territory. Capt. Davenport was then elected and re-elected every two years till 1846, when, under law, he could serve no longer. The Captain then retired to private life and in 1847 moved from Rockingham to Le Claire and became largely interested in the latter town. He bought the machinery of the Rockingham Steam Mill and brought it to Le Claire in 1848 and erected a steam flouring and saw mill, and in company with Mr. Samuel Lyter engaged extensively in a general mercantile business. M. Lyter was succeeded by Mr. Robert Christie. The mill erected by Capt. Davenport burned down in a year or two after it was built, and he, in company with R.H. Rogers, James Jack, and Winchester Sherman, built a much more extensive flouring mill on the same site and also built the saw-mill now owned by Mr. Strabbun. Capt. Davenport was also one of a company who built the "boat ways' in Le Claire.
On the 11th of May, 1880, Capt. Davenport was stricken with paralysis, and for a month after his life hung in the balance; but recovered only to experience a similar attack a few days before his death, which occurred March 27, 1881, at his home in Le Claire. Six children were left - J.H. and W.A., esteemed citizens of Le Claire; Mrs. Anna E. Hewitt, of Marion; Mrs. Sarah McCaffrey and Mrs. Elvira Gardner, of Le Claire; and Mrs. Virginia Henderson, of Princeton.
Thanks to Find A Grave member Collene Family Finder for the following three newspaper items:
DAVENPORT.
Word comes from LeClaire that Capt. A. H. Davenport, who last summer suffered from a stroke of paralysis, and during the winter partially recovered from it, is again lying quite low.
Source: Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 26 Mar 1881, p.4.
THE OTHER SHORE
The Bark of Captain A. M. Davenport Moored There--One of the Oldest and Most Prominent Citizens of the County Goes Hence--Sketch of His Eventful Career.
A man who, during the first twenty years of the settlement of Scott county, was one of the most prominent citizens in this county, as in business and public offices he was probably the most important and widely known, died at his home in LeClaire at one o'clock Sunday afternoon--Adrian H. Davenport. It was on the 11th of May last, that Captain Davenport was stricken with paralysis, and for a month after his life hung in the balance; but he recovered, only to experience a similar attack one day last week, and this proved fatal.
What an interesting sketch of the early history of this region of Illinois and Iowa Captain Davenport could have written had he set himself to it.
He was born in Shawneetown, Ill., March 14, 1812, the son of Marmaduke S. Davenport. His father was appointed Indian agent on Rock Island in 1832, and it was then that his family came to the island to live.
Adrian H. was married on the island in 1833 to Miss HARRIET LANE, who came here with the family, the ceremony being performed by Col. George Davenport, as U. S. official, there being no other person with authority to do so between Galena and Warsaw. Mrs. Davenport proved one of the best of wives and mothers--and he has survived her loss less than a year, for she died in June 1880.
In March, 1834, Adrian Davenport made a claim on Credit island (now known as Offermann's island), built a home thereon, and lived there for two or three years--and was there joined by his father, whose Indian agency on the island had been removed to Green Bay, Wis. On the island Adrian Davenport's first son was born--the second male child born in Scott county. In March, 1834.
Adrian Davenport made a claim at Rockingham--and he, his father, his uncle James, and Col. John Sullivan, became proprietors of the site, and laid out the town, while Adrian established a ferry between Rockingham and the mouth of Rock river, which was opposite.
He kept a general store at Rockingham, and did a very large business. When he settled there, there were only two houses on the site, and he occupied one of them. He was the moving spirit in Rockingham until along 1840, when Davenport was established as the county seat, or rather the court house was built here, which was in 1840--and the desertion of Rockingham commenced, the leading spirits, aside from Mr. Davenport striking out for Davenport.
This was a serious matter for Adrian H. He was now sheriff of Scott county, which included the present county of Clinton, an office to which he was elected in 1839 as the successor of Major Wilson, who was appointed Sheriff by Governor Lucas, and he maintained his office at Rockingham. But it was of no use, and the public spirited merchant and citizen came to Davenport himself in the early forties.
After Clinton county was partitioned off, Mr. Davenport was continued in the Shrievalty of Scott county--and filled the office until 1847, when he was succeeded by Harvey Leonard, and he ,with his father, removed to LeClaire, where they had acquired considerable property.
He served as a volunteer through the Blackhawk war as first lieutenant under Gen. Posey.
Mr. Davenport's father died in LeClaire in 1872.
Mr. Davenport and Mr. Leonard have the honor of being the only Democrats who have filled the office of Sheriff of this county.
Mr. Davenport soon became the leading man in LeClaire-- was the first Mayor of the town, and was re-elected every spring for several years. Everybody respected him, for everybody knew he would do only what he thought was right. He did a large business at his store, was a sort of general adviser for people in trouble, everybody went to him for advise and help.
He filled, also, the office of Justice of the Peace and township trustee, and School Director.
His acquaintance at LeClaire did not commence, however, with his removal there - for as far back as 1837, he and Samuel Lyter had a store there, Mr. L. attending to the business.
But for thirty years LeClaire has been his home -- and never was a man or family more highly esteemed in a town than Adrian H. Davenport and family have been in LeClaire.
After Mr. Davenport moved to LeClaire he became engaged in river business, and for years was captain of the finest steamboats on the upper Mississippi--packets such as the Audubon, Lynx and Franklin, which were famous in their day.
One pleasant day week before last he went out to take a cutter ride, the cutter was upset, and he was cast into the snow, taking a severe cold. He went home chilled--his former ailment returned, and so he lay until he died.
Six children are living--;
J. H. and W. A., esteemed citizens of LeClaire, Mrs. Anna E. Hewitt of Chicago,
Mrs. Sarah McCaffrey and
Mrs. Elvira Gardner of LeClaire, and
Mrs. Virginia Henderson, of Princeton.
The funeral will take place tomorrow (Tuesday) forenoon at half-past ten o'clock.
Source: The Davenport Democrat, Davenport, Ia., 28 Mar 1881, p.1.
THE VETERAN PIONEER
Death of Captain A. H. Davenport, of LeClaire.
The First White Settler to Locale in Scott County.
The First Marriage Ceremony Performed in Rock Island County--A Useful and Active Life--Sketch of the Deceased.
Captain A. H. Davenport died at his home in Le Claire, at 1:45 o'clock yesterday afternoon, March 27, aged 67 years and 13 days.
The deceased enjoyed the honor during life of being the first white settler of Scott county. Last summer Capt. Davenport was afflicted by a paralytic shock from the effects of which he never fully rallied. His life was even despaired at that time, but his sturdy energies refused to yield. He continued to improve until the cold weather when his health began failing again. On Friday last he was much worse and The Gazette of Saturday stated his position as being critical. In his death another of those who braved the danger of the early times, who in his active life was well known, and who has left a name that will be perpetuated, is borne away.
Capt. Davenport was born at Shawneetown, Illinois, March 14, 1812, and as we have said was the first American to feast his eyes upon the prairies of this locality. He was also the first white settler married in what is now Rock Island county, though at that time it was of course without a name. The ceremony was performed on the Island, Col. George Davenport officiating, March 30, 1833. He fought against the redskins all though the Black Hawk war, serving as First Lieutenant under General Posey. Again Captain Davenport was the first sheriff of Scott county, being, we believe twice elected to that office, thus holding it for three terms. Early in his western experience he lived on Credit Island, from there he went to Rockingham, being the first merchant to open a store in that region. When enough of the early settlers had gathered to organize the society of the Pioneer Settlers of Scott County, he was made its first Vice-President.
Perhaps the most active years of the deceased were passed at Le Claire, whose first Mayor Capt. Davenport was. In the spring of 1848 the firm of Davenport, Rogers & Co., began the erection of the first steam saw mill in that place. It's location was just below the present site of the boat yard there. Two years later, or in 1850, a large flouring mill was built adjoining the saw mill. In 1851 they were both destroyed by fire. The same firm engaged about this time in the grocery, dry goods and general line. Their trade soon grew into immense proportions. Farmers for 25 and 30 miles around on both sides of the river found that they could trade with most satisfaction with Davenport, Rogers & Co., of Le Claire. It was in 1850 or thereabouts that Capt. Davenport built the Rapids saw mill on the site of the one burned down last October. The same year he bought of Antoine Le Claire, the tract of land known as "Le Claire's Reserve." This was north of the present city of Le Claire and between that and the town of Parkhurst. It was laid out into lots, as was also Davenport and Roger's addition. These, the "Reserve," Parkhurst and the "addition", were consolidated into what is now the City of Le Claire. In 1857 he built the Davenport block which contained the first public hall Le Claire ever saw. In 1862 the subject of this sketch embarked in the clothing business..
The veteran pioneer earned his rank and title of "Captain" on the river. From 1850 to 1860 his connection with steam boating continued. He was a part or sole owner of the Uncle Toby, a St. Louis and Galena packet, the Audubon, Envoy, Kentucky, Courier, and many other boats. He was also one of the original stockholders in the company that constructed the Le Claire boat ways.
Of all the vigorous men who have settled in the good county of Scott, early or late, there are few who have been so industrious in prosecuting business on a large and successful scale as Capt. A. H. Davenport, or who have made more friends. He was bold in planning and zealous in executing. His death will be mourned by the great number who knew him, and it will efface from local history another landmark long prominent.
Six children survive him--two sons and four daughters. A. H. Davenport and W. A. Davenport are merchants of Le Claire. The oldest daughter is Mrs. Ann Eliza Hewitt, who was married in Davenport and whose husband was long a prominent merchant here. She now resides in Chicago. Another daughter is Mrs. Sarah Jane McCaffrey, of Le Claire. A third is Mrs. Elvira Gardner, a widow, now living at Le Claire. The fourth is Mrs. Virginia Henderson, whose home is at Princeton.
The funeral of Capt. Davenport will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Source: The Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 28 Mar 1881, p. 4.
The funeral of the late Col. A. H. Davenport, of LeClaire occurs at his homestead this afternoon at two o'clock.
Source: Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 29 Mar 1881,
Adrian Hubbard Davenport's Father was Marmaduke Simms Davenport, born 1784 in Virginia and died in LeClaire, Iowa in 1872. Marmaduke's burial site has not been located. Adrian Hubbard Davenport's Grandfather was Adrian Davenport, Sr., son of Abraham Davenport.
from "History of Scott County, Iowa"(1882) Chicago-Interstate Publishing Co. :
One of the most prominent men in Scott County during the first years of its existence was Adrian H. Davenport, who was born in Shawneetown, Ill, March 14, 1812, the son of Marmaduke S. Davenport. His father was appointed Indian agent on Rock Island in 1832, and it was then that the family came to the island to live. Adrian H. was married on the island in 1833 to Miss Harriet Lane. Mrs. Davenport proved to be one of the best of wives and mothers, and he survived her loss less than a year, she dying in June, 1880. In March 1834, Adrian Davenport made a claim at Rockingham, and he, his father, his Uncle James, and Col. John Sullivan became proprietors of the site, and laid out the town, while Adrian established a Mississippi ferry between Rockingham, and the mouth of the Rock River, which was opposite. He kept a general store at Rockingham, and did a very large business. He was the moving spirit in Rockingham until along in 1840, when Davenport was established as the county seat, and the desertion of Rockingham commenced, the leading spirits aside from Mr. Davenport striking out for Davenport.
In 1847 he, with his father, removed to Le Claire, where they had acquired considerable property. Mr. Davenport soon became the leading man in Le Claire; was the first mayor of the town, and was re-elected every spring for several years.
After Mr. Davenport moved to Le Claire he became engaged in river business, and for years was captain of the finest steamboats on the upper Mississippi.
Capt. A.H. Davenport was appointed sheriff of Scott County, Iowa, in 1838, by Gov. Lucas, to succeed Maj. Frazer Wilson, who was the first sheriff of the county appointed by Gov. Dodge, under the territorial government of Wisconsin. Capt. Davenport served under this appointment till 1839, when the office of sheriff was made elective by a change in the original law of the territory. Capt. Davenport was then elected and re-elected every two years till 1846, when, under law, he could serve no longer. The Captain then retired to private life and in 1847 moved from Rockingham to Le Claire and became largely interested in the latter town. He bought the machinery of the Rockingham Steam Mill and brought it to Le Claire in 1848 and erected a steam flouring and saw mill, and in company with Mr. Samuel Lyter engaged extensively in a general mercantile business. M. Lyter was succeeded by Mr. Robert Christie. The mill erected by Capt. Davenport burned down in a year or two after it was built, and he, in company with R.H. Rogers, James Jack, and Winchester Sherman, built a much more extensive flouring mill on the same site and also built the saw-mill now owned by Mr. Strabbun. Capt. Davenport was also one of a company who built the "boat ways' in Le Claire.
On the 11th of May, 1880, Capt. Davenport was stricken with paralysis, and for a month after his life hung in the balance; but recovered only to experience a similar attack a few days before his death, which occurred March 27, 1881, at his home in Le Claire. Six children were left - J.H. and W.A., esteemed citizens of Le Claire; Mrs. Anna E. Hewitt, of Marion; Mrs. Sarah McCaffrey and Mrs. Elvira Gardner, of Le Claire; and Mrs. Virginia Henderson, of Princeton.
Thanks to Find A Grave member Collene Family Finder for the following three newspaper items:
DAVENPORT.
Word comes from LeClaire that Capt. A. H. Davenport, who last summer suffered from a stroke of paralysis, and during the winter partially recovered from it, is again lying quite low.
Source: Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 26 Mar 1881, p.4.
THE OTHER SHORE
The Bark of Captain A. M. Davenport Moored There--One of the Oldest and Most Prominent Citizens of the County Goes Hence--Sketch of His Eventful Career.
A man who, during the first twenty years of the settlement of Scott county, was one of the most prominent citizens in this county, as in business and public offices he was probably the most important and widely known, died at his home in LeClaire at one o'clock Sunday afternoon--Adrian H. Davenport. It was on the 11th of May last, that Captain Davenport was stricken with paralysis, and for a month after his life hung in the balance; but he recovered, only to experience a similar attack one day last week, and this proved fatal.
What an interesting sketch of the early history of this region of Illinois and Iowa Captain Davenport could have written had he set himself to it.
He was born in Shawneetown, Ill., March 14, 1812, the son of Marmaduke S. Davenport. His father was appointed Indian agent on Rock Island in 1832, and it was then that his family came to the island to live.
Adrian H. was married on the island in 1833 to Miss HARRIET LANE, who came here with the family, the ceremony being performed by Col. George Davenport, as U. S. official, there being no other person with authority to do so between Galena and Warsaw. Mrs. Davenport proved one of the best of wives and mothers--and he has survived her loss less than a year, for she died in June 1880.
In March, 1834, Adrian Davenport made a claim on Credit island (now known as Offermann's island), built a home thereon, and lived there for two or three years--and was there joined by his father, whose Indian agency on the island had been removed to Green Bay, Wis. On the island Adrian Davenport's first son was born--the second male child born in Scott county. In March, 1834.
Adrian Davenport made a claim at Rockingham--and he, his father, his uncle James, and Col. John Sullivan, became proprietors of the site, and laid out the town, while Adrian established a ferry between Rockingham and the mouth of Rock river, which was opposite.
He kept a general store at Rockingham, and did a very large business. When he settled there, there were only two houses on the site, and he occupied one of them. He was the moving spirit in Rockingham until along 1840, when Davenport was established as the county seat, or rather the court house was built here, which was in 1840--and the desertion of Rockingham commenced, the leading spirits, aside from Mr. Davenport striking out for Davenport.
This was a serious matter for Adrian H. He was now sheriff of Scott county, which included the present county of Clinton, an office to which he was elected in 1839 as the successor of Major Wilson, who was appointed Sheriff by Governor Lucas, and he maintained his office at Rockingham. But it was of no use, and the public spirited merchant and citizen came to Davenport himself in the early forties.
After Clinton county was partitioned off, Mr. Davenport was continued in the Shrievalty of Scott county--and filled the office until 1847, when he was succeeded by Harvey Leonard, and he ,with his father, removed to LeClaire, where they had acquired considerable property.
He served as a volunteer through the Blackhawk war as first lieutenant under Gen. Posey.
Mr. Davenport's father died in LeClaire in 1872.
Mr. Davenport and Mr. Leonard have the honor of being the only Democrats who have filled the office of Sheriff of this county.
Mr. Davenport soon became the leading man in LeClaire-- was the first Mayor of the town, and was re-elected every spring for several years. Everybody respected him, for everybody knew he would do only what he thought was right. He did a large business at his store, was a sort of general adviser for people in trouble, everybody went to him for advise and help.
He filled, also, the office of Justice of the Peace and township trustee, and School Director.
His acquaintance at LeClaire did not commence, however, with his removal there - for as far back as 1837, he and Samuel Lyter had a store there, Mr. L. attending to the business.
But for thirty years LeClaire has been his home -- and never was a man or family more highly esteemed in a town than Adrian H. Davenport and family have been in LeClaire.
After Mr. Davenport moved to LeClaire he became engaged in river business, and for years was captain of the finest steamboats on the upper Mississippi--packets such as the Audubon, Lynx and Franklin, which were famous in their day.
One pleasant day week before last he went out to take a cutter ride, the cutter was upset, and he was cast into the snow, taking a severe cold. He went home chilled--his former ailment returned, and so he lay until he died.
Six children are living--;
J. H. and W. A., esteemed citizens of LeClaire, Mrs. Anna E. Hewitt of Chicago,
Mrs. Sarah McCaffrey and
Mrs. Elvira Gardner of LeClaire, and
Mrs. Virginia Henderson, of Princeton.
The funeral will take place tomorrow (Tuesday) forenoon at half-past ten o'clock.
Source: The Davenport Democrat, Davenport, Ia., 28 Mar 1881, p.1.
THE VETERAN PIONEER
Death of Captain A. H. Davenport, of LeClaire.
The First White Settler to Locale in Scott County.
The First Marriage Ceremony Performed in Rock Island County--A Useful and Active Life--Sketch of the Deceased.
Captain A. H. Davenport died at his home in Le Claire, at 1:45 o'clock yesterday afternoon, March 27, aged 67 years and 13 days.
The deceased enjoyed the honor during life of being the first white settler of Scott county. Last summer Capt. Davenport was afflicted by a paralytic shock from the effects of which he never fully rallied. His life was even despaired at that time, but his sturdy energies refused to yield. He continued to improve until the cold weather when his health began failing again. On Friday last he was much worse and The Gazette of Saturday stated his position as being critical. In his death another of those who braved the danger of the early times, who in his active life was well known, and who has left a name that will be perpetuated, is borne away.
Capt. Davenport was born at Shawneetown, Illinois, March 14, 1812, and as we have said was the first American to feast his eyes upon the prairies of this locality. He was also the first white settler married in what is now Rock Island county, though at that time it was of course without a name. The ceremony was performed on the Island, Col. George Davenport officiating, March 30, 1833. He fought against the redskins all though the Black Hawk war, serving as First Lieutenant under General Posey. Again Captain Davenport was the first sheriff of Scott county, being, we believe twice elected to that office, thus holding it for three terms. Early in his western experience he lived on Credit Island, from there he went to Rockingham, being the first merchant to open a store in that region. When enough of the early settlers had gathered to organize the society of the Pioneer Settlers of Scott County, he was made its first Vice-President.
Perhaps the most active years of the deceased were passed at Le Claire, whose first Mayor Capt. Davenport was. In the spring of 1848 the firm of Davenport, Rogers & Co., began the erection of the first steam saw mill in that place. It's location was just below the present site of the boat yard there. Two years later, or in 1850, a large flouring mill was built adjoining the saw mill. In 1851 they were both destroyed by fire. The same firm engaged about this time in the grocery, dry goods and general line. Their trade soon grew into immense proportions. Farmers for 25 and 30 miles around on both sides of the river found that they could trade with most satisfaction with Davenport, Rogers & Co., of Le Claire. It was in 1850 or thereabouts that Capt. Davenport built the Rapids saw mill on the site of the one burned down last October. The same year he bought of Antoine Le Claire, the tract of land known as "Le Claire's Reserve." This was north of the present city of Le Claire and between that and the town of Parkhurst. It was laid out into lots, as was also Davenport and Roger's addition. These, the "Reserve," Parkhurst and the "addition", were consolidated into what is now the City of Le Claire. In 1857 he built the Davenport block which contained the first public hall Le Claire ever saw. In 1862 the subject of this sketch embarked in the clothing business..
The veteran pioneer earned his rank and title of "Captain" on the river. From 1850 to 1860 his connection with steam boating continued. He was a part or sole owner of the Uncle Toby, a St. Louis and Galena packet, the Audubon, Envoy, Kentucky, Courier, and many other boats. He was also one of the original stockholders in the company that constructed the Le Claire boat ways.
Of all the vigorous men who have settled in the good county of Scott, early or late, there are few who have been so industrious in prosecuting business on a large and successful scale as Capt. A. H. Davenport, or who have made more friends. He was bold in planning and zealous in executing. His death will be mourned by the great number who knew him, and it will efface from local history another landmark long prominent.
Six children survive him--two sons and four daughters. A. H. Davenport and W. A. Davenport are merchants of Le Claire. The oldest daughter is Mrs. Ann Eliza Hewitt, who was married in Davenport and whose husband was long a prominent merchant here. She now resides in Chicago. Another daughter is Mrs. Sarah Jane McCaffrey, of Le Claire. A third is Mrs. Elvira Gardner, a widow, now living at Le Claire. The fourth is Mrs. Virginia Henderson, whose home is at Princeton.
The funeral of Capt. Davenport will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Source: The Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 28 Mar 1881, p. 4.
The funeral of the late Col. A. H. Davenport, of LeClaire occurs at his homestead this afternoon at two o'clock.
Source: Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 29 Mar 1881,
from "History of Scott County, Iowa"(1882) Chicago-Interstate Publishing Co. :
One of the most prominent men in Scott County during the first years of its existence was Adrian H. Davenport, who was born in Shawneetown, Ill, March 14, 1812, the son of Marmaduke S. Davenport. His father was appointed Indian agent on Rock Island in 1832, and it was then that the family came to the island to live. Adrian H. was married on the island in 1833 to Miss Harriet Lane. Mrs. Davenport proved to be one of the best of wives and mothers, and he survived her loss less than a year, she dying in June, 1880. In March 1834, Adrian Davenport made a claim at Rockingham, and he, his father, his Uncle James, and Col. John Sullivan became proprietors of the site, and laid out the town, while Adrian established a Mississippi ferry between Rockingham, and the mouth of the Rock River, which was opposite. He kept a general store at Rockingham, and did a very large business. He was the moving spirit in Rockingham until along in 1840, when Davenport was established as the county seat, and the desertion of Rockingham commenced, the leading spirits aside from Mr. Davenport striking out for Davenport.
In 1847 he, with his father, removed to Le Claire, where they had acquired considerable property. Mr. Davenport soon became the leading man in Le Claire; was the first mayor of the town, and was re-elected every spring for several years.
After Mr. Davenport moved to Le Claire he became engaged in river business, and for years was captain of the finest steamboats on the upper Mississippi.
Capt. A.H. Davenport was appointed sheriff of Scott County, Iowa, in 1838, by Gov. Lucas, to succeed Maj. Frazer Wilson, who was the first sheriff of the county appointed by Gov. Dodge, under the territorial government of Wisconsin. Capt. Davenport served under this appointment till 1839, when the office of sheriff was made elective by a change in the original law of the territory. Capt. Davenport was then elected and re-elected every two years till 1846, when, under law, he could serve no longer. The Captain then retired to private life and in 1847 moved from Rockingham to Le Claire and became largely interested in the latter town. He bought the machinery of the Rockingham Steam Mill and brought it to Le Claire in 1848 and erected a steam flouring and saw mill, and in company with Mr. Samuel Lyter engaged extensively in a general mercantile business. M. Lyter was succeeded by Mr. Robert Christie. The mill erected by Capt. Davenport burned down in a year or two after it was built, and he, in company with R.H. Rogers, James Jack, and Winchester Sherman, built a much more extensive flouring mill on the same site and also built the saw-mill now owned by Mr. Strabbun. Capt. Davenport was also one of a company who built the "boat ways' in Le Claire.
On the 11th of May, 1880, Capt. Davenport was stricken with paralysis, and for a month after his life hung in the balance; but recovered only to experience a similar attack a few days before his death, which occurred March 27, 1881, at his home in Le Claire. Six children were left - J.H. and W.A., esteemed citizens of Le Claire; Mrs. Anna E. Hewitt, of Marion; Mrs. Sarah McCaffrey and Mrs. Elvira Gardner, of Le Claire; and Mrs. Virginia Henderson, of Princeton.
Thanks to Find A Grave member Collene Family Finder for the following three newspaper items:
DAVENPORT.
Word comes from LeClaire that Capt. A. H. Davenport, who last summer suffered from a stroke of paralysis, and during the winter partially recovered from it, is again lying quite low.
Source: Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 26 Mar 1881, p.4.
THE OTHER SHORE
The Bark of Captain A. M. Davenport Moored There--One of the Oldest and Most Prominent Citizens of the County Goes Hence--Sketch of His Eventful Career.
A man who, during the first twenty years of the settlement of Scott county, was one of the most prominent citizens in this county, as in business and public offices he was probably the most important and widely known, died at his home in LeClaire at one o'clock Sunday afternoon--Adrian H. Davenport. It was on the 11th of May last, that Captain Davenport was stricken with paralysis, and for a month after his life hung in the balance; but he recovered, only to experience a similar attack one day last week, and this proved fatal.
What an interesting sketch of the early history of this region of Illinois and Iowa Captain Davenport could have written had he set himself to it.
He was born in Shawneetown, Ill., March 14, 1812, the son of Marmaduke S. Davenport. His father was appointed Indian agent on Rock Island in 1832, and it was then that his family came to the island to live.
Adrian H. was married on the island in 1833 to Miss HARRIET LANE, who came here with the family, the ceremony being performed by Col. George Davenport, as U. S. official, there being no other person with authority to do so between Galena and Warsaw. Mrs. Davenport proved one of the best of wives and mothers--and he has survived her loss less than a year, for she died in June 1880.
In March, 1834, Adrian Davenport made a claim on Credit island (now known as Offermann's island), built a home thereon, and lived there for two or three years--and was there joined by his father, whose Indian agency on the island had been removed to Green Bay, Wis. On the island Adrian Davenport's first son was born--the second male child born in Scott county. In March, 1834.
Adrian Davenport made a claim at Rockingham--and he, his father, his uncle James, and Col. John Sullivan, became proprietors of the site, and laid out the town, while Adrian established a ferry between Rockingham and the mouth of Rock river, which was opposite.
He kept a general store at Rockingham, and did a very large business. When he settled there, there were only two houses on the site, and he occupied one of them. He was the moving spirit in Rockingham until along 1840, when Davenport was established as the county seat, or rather the court house was built here, which was in 1840--and the desertion of Rockingham commenced, the leading spirits, aside from Mr. Davenport striking out for Davenport.
This was a serious matter for Adrian H. He was now sheriff of Scott county, which included the present county of Clinton, an office to which he was elected in 1839 as the successor of Major Wilson, who was appointed Sheriff by Governor Lucas, and he maintained his office at Rockingham. But it was of no use, and the public spirited merchant and citizen came to Davenport himself in the early forties.
After Clinton county was partitioned off, Mr. Davenport was continued in the Shrievalty of Scott county--and filled the office until 1847, when he was succeeded by Harvey Leonard, and he ,with his father, removed to LeClaire, where they had acquired considerable property.
He served as a volunteer through the Blackhawk war as first lieutenant under Gen. Posey.
Mr. Davenport's father died in LeClaire in 1872.
Mr. Davenport and Mr. Leonard have the honor of being the only Democrats who have filled the office of Sheriff of this county.
Mr. Davenport soon became the leading man in LeClaire-- was the first Mayor of the town, and was re-elected every spring for several years. Everybody respected him, for everybody knew he would do only what he thought was right. He did a large business at his store, was a sort of general adviser for people in trouble, everybody went to him for advise and help.
He filled, also, the office of Justice of the Peace and township trustee, and School Director.
His acquaintance at LeClaire did not commence, however, with his removal there - for as far back as 1837, he and Samuel Lyter had a store there, Mr. L. attending to the business.
But for thirty years LeClaire has been his home -- and never was a man or family more highly esteemed in a town than Adrian H. Davenport and family have been in LeClaire.
After Mr. Davenport moved to LeClaire he became engaged in river business, and for years was captain of the finest steamboats on the upper Mississippi--packets such as the Audubon, Lynx and Franklin, which were famous in their day.
One pleasant day week before last he went out to take a cutter ride, the cutter was upset, and he was cast into the snow, taking a severe cold. He went home chilled--his former ailment returned, and so he lay until he died.
Six children are living--;
J. H. and W. A., esteemed citizens of LeClaire, Mrs. Anna E. Hewitt of Chicago,
Mrs. Sarah McCaffrey and
Mrs. Elvira Gardner of LeClaire, and
Mrs. Virginia Henderson, of Princeton.
The funeral will take place tomorrow (Tuesday) forenoon at half-past ten o'clock.
Source: The Davenport Democrat, Davenport, Ia., 28 Mar 1881, p.1.
THE VETERAN PIONEER
Death of Captain A. H. Davenport, of LeClaire.
The First White Settler to Locale in Scott County.
The First Marriage Ceremony Performed in Rock Island County--A Useful and Active Life--Sketch of the Deceased.
Captain A. H. Davenport died at his home in Le Claire, at 1:45 o'clock yesterday afternoon, March 27, aged 67 years and 13 days.
The deceased enjoyed the honor during life of being the first white settler of Scott county. Last summer Capt. Davenport was afflicted by a paralytic shock from the effects of which he never fully rallied. His life was even despaired at that time, but his sturdy energies refused to yield. He continued to improve until the cold weather when his health began failing again. On Friday last he was much worse and The Gazette of Saturday stated his position as being critical. In his death another of those who braved the danger of the early times, who in his active life was well known, and who has left a name that will be perpetuated, is borne away.
Capt. Davenport was born at Shawneetown, Illinois, March 14, 1812, and as we have said was the first American to feast his eyes upon the prairies of this locality. He was also the first white settler married in what is now Rock Island county, though at that time it was of course without a name. The ceremony was performed on the Island, Col. George Davenport officiating, March 30, 1833. He fought against the redskins all though the Black Hawk war, serving as First Lieutenant under General Posey. Again Captain Davenport was the first sheriff of Scott county, being, we believe twice elected to that office, thus holding it for three terms. Early in his western experience he lived on Credit Island, from there he went to Rockingham, being the first merchant to open a store in that region. When enough of the early settlers had gathered to organize the society of the Pioneer Settlers of Scott County, he was made its first Vice-President.
Perhaps the most active years of the deceased were passed at Le Claire, whose first Mayor Capt. Davenport was. In the spring of 1848 the firm of Davenport, Rogers & Co., began the erection of the first steam saw mill in that place. It's location was just below the present site of the boat yard there. Two years later, or in 1850, a large flouring mill was built adjoining the saw mill. In 1851 they were both destroyed by fire. The same firm engaged about this time in the grocery, dry goods and general line. Their trade soon grew into immense proportions. Farmers for 25 and 30 miles around on both sides of the river found that they could trade with most satisfaction with Davenport, Rogers & Co., of Le Claire. It was in 1850 or thereabouts that Capt. Davenport built the Rapids saw mill on the site of the one burned down last October. The same year he bought of Antoine Le Claire, the tract of land known as "Le Claire's Reserve." This was north of the present city of Le Claire and between that and the town of Parkhurst. It was laid out into lots, as was also Davenport and Roger's addition. These, the "Reserve," Parkhurst and the "addition", were consolidated into what is now the City of Le Claire. In 1857 he built the Davenport block which contained the first public hall Le Claire ever saw. In 1862 the subject of this sketch embarked in the clothing business..
The veteran pioneer earned his rank and title of "Captain" on the river. From 1850 to 1860 his connection with steam boating continued. He was a part or sole owner of the Uncle Toby, a St. Louis and Galena packet, the Audubon, Envoy, Kentucky, Courier, and many other boats. He was also one of the original stockholders in the company that constructed the Le Claire boat ways.
Of all the vigorous men who have settled in the good county of Scott, early or late, there are few who have been so industrious in prosecuting business on a large and successful scale as Capt. A. H. Davenport, or who have made more friends. He was bold in planning and zealous in executing. His death will be mourned by the great number who knew him, and it will efface from local history another landmark long prominent.
Six children survive him--two sons and four daughters. A. H. Davenport and W. A. Davenport are merchants of Le Claire. The oldest daughter is Mrs. Ann Eliza Hewitt, who was married in Davenport and whose husband was long a prominent merchant here. She now resides in Chicago. Another daughter is Mrs. Sarah Jane McCaffrey, of Le Claire. A third is Mrs. Elvira Gardner, a widow, now living at Le Claire. The fourth is Mrs. Virginia Henderson, whose home is at Princeton.
The funeral of Capt. Davenport will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Source: The Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 28 Mar 1881, p. 4.
The funeral of the late Col. A. H. Davenport, of LeClaire occurs at his homestead this afternoon at two o'clock.
Source: Daily Gazette, Davenport, Ia., 29 Mar 1881,
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