POSTCARD HISTORY SERIES

Doug Smith is a native of Davenport, and a 1977 graduate of West High School.  He is considered an expert in many fields of collecting, and a respected local historian.  His weekly column, “Doug’s Quad City Collectibles” appears on Tuesday’s in the Quad City Times.  In this, his first published book, he shares with us some of his more than 5,000 rare pieces of ephemera and photographs of Davenport.  All images are taken from the personal collection of the author.

“Introduction”

Davenport was a wonderful place to grow up at during the 1960’s and 70’s.  Neighborly Iowa people, caring teachers, the anticipated change of seasons, neighborhood parks, playgrounds, athletic competition and schools, and so many other things contributed to a childhood that I wouldn’t trade for the world.  All those wonderful memories with family and friends, and the fondness for my past, are what endear me to this place.  How interesting it is that when asked of the meaning of the word “Ioway,” Indian interpreter Antoine LeClaire defined it as simply “This is the place.”  And how apropos, that after visiting Davenport over one hundred years ago President Millard Fillmore told its citizens “If there is a paradise on earth – it is here.” How true and how blessed I was to be a part of it.  I hope these historic penny postcards, early photographs, and other pieces of Davenport’s past can take you to a place of long ago, when life was simpler, slower and dare I say better.

** Personally inscribed and autographed copies are 

     available at a cost of $19.99 plus shipping.