Quad Citizens Behind the Businesses: Kelly Lao

The German American Heritage Center & Museum (GAHC) is a cultural center and museum that chronicles and preserves the history of German-Americans in the Midwest.

Built by John Brus, the building opened in 1862 as the Germania House, a guest house for immigrants. In 1876, it was bought by John Frederick Miller and renamed the Miller Hotel. Miller was a German immigrant who had been a manufacturer in Davenport since the 1850s. Miller also operated the restaurant, billiard room and saloon in the hotel until 1889. The hotel’s name changed several times through the years, and if walls could talk, we can only imagine the stories they would tell.

The GAHC was incorporated in 1994, and the board of directors purchased the building in 1995. We love having this historic building stand at the base of the Stanley Talbot Memorial (Centennial) Bridge and GAHC’s commitment to preserve and share the stories of the many German immigrants who made their mark in Davenport, the Quad Cities and American culture.

Best known for:
German festivals, history exhibits and programs. Plus, GAHC is home to Iowa’s largest advent calendar. Located in the windows of the building, a new scene designed by students at the Creative Arts Academy is revealed each day beginning December 1!

What do they love the most about being downtown?
“We love being a beautiful piece of history that welcomes everyone who crosses over the Centennial Bridge into Davenport. We display our city's roots, an example of historic preservation at its best, and the love of culture that our community has."

What is the best way you can support this business?
GAHC has added many virtual aspects to their services, including exhibits, programs and a gift shop. The gift shop in particular drives a substantial amount of revenue for the museum, accounting for 20% of the nonprofit’s income to support educational operations. Explore the gift shop and check out the exhibits online!

About the Downtown Front Porch Project:

The Downtown Front Porch project is a way to get to know the humans behind the businesses in downtown Davenport. Featuring more than 40 organizations, the images and stories that will be shared are reflective of the energy, passion and resilience of the people that make downtown tick.

“As we all try to navigate a global pandemic, finding ways to connect with our neighbors is more important than ever,” stated Kyle Carter, Executive Director of DDP. “With a year of cancelled events and less foot traffic on the streets, it’s critical that we spend our dollars locally to support the people in our own community. Small, locally-owned businesses are at the center of what makes downtown a special place. This campaign is an opportunity to show the faces of hard-working Quad Citizens and ways the community can rally to support them.”

The goal of the Downtown Front Porch project is to remind people that downtown is vibrant, welcoming and open for business.