Postcards From Home



Mrs. Frank Robinson’s Residence

613 20th Street  Although the postcard identifies this house as belonging to Mrs. Frank Robinson, it began its life as the home of her in-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. … [ Continued



Reynolds Engineering

5th Avenue at 38th Street This Real Photo postcard from about 1926 shows the home of Reynolds Engineering and Manufacturers.  Thanks to Richard Iverson for sharing this rare postcard. Some … [ Continued



House at 1030 21st Street

1030 20th Street Because postcards showing houses are rare, we don’t do a lot of our research on these mostly private buildings.  Yet we are often asked, “How can I … [ Continued



Harper House Hotel

2nd Avenue & 19th Street It opened to wide acclaim with an elaborate banquet in February 1871.  And according to an 1877 County Directory,  “One of the oldest residents of … [ Continued



Guyer House

728 21st Street This “Real Photo” postcard of the house at 728-21st Street is from the historical collection of the Rock Island Public library.  It was mailed by Anna, who … [ Continued



Grace Lutheran Church

4401 7th Avenue Grace Lutheran Church was organized on February 2, 1888, with 18 charter members.   It was notable for being the first “English” church, with services in English rather … [ Continued



Como Hotel

18th Street & 3rd Avenue Like many downtown Rock Island buildings, there’s a long history for the Como Hotel, once at the southwest corner of 18th Street and Third Avenue.  … [ Continued



Central Presbyterian Church

929 14th Street  This postcard contains the year 1910 within its design.  That tells us it was probably published to show the architect’s drawings for the new Central Presbyterian Church … [ Continued