Gordon-Van Tine Company Historic District

Scott County, Iowa, located in the Midwestern United States, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Meskwaki people, who were later displaced by European settlers.

In the early 19th century, Scott County was part of the vast Louisiana Purchase territory, acquired by the United States from France. The first European settlers arrived in the area in the 1820s, drawn to the fertile land along the Mississippi River. The county was officially established in 1837 and named after General Winfield Scott, a hero of the War of 1812.

During the mid-19th century, Scott County experienced rapid growth and development. The construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal and the arrival of the railroad in the 1850s brought increased trade and industry to the area. Davenport, the county seat, became an important trading center and hub of commerce.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a period of innovation and progress in Scott County. The advent of the electric streetcar in the 1880s revolutionized transportation in the region. Davenport also became known as a center of healthcare and education, with the establishment of several hospitals and educational institutions. The county faced challenges during World War I and the Great Depression but rebounded in the post-war era with the growth of manufacturing industries.

Today, Scott County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a diverse economy. Its rich history is celebrated through numerous historic sites and museums, including the historical Village of East Davenport and the Figge Art Museum. The county remains an important agricultural center, with farming and agribusiness playing a significant role in its economy.