Moline Preservation Society

02/02/2026

Quad Cities Henry Farnam Evening

This year marks the 18th Henry Farnam evening since 2004. On this night, we hoist a toast to Henry Farnam, and explore some aspect of the Mississippi River, railroads, bridges, the environment, our region, and how our local area affected the nation. Join us as we explore the history of John Deere and the development of water power that helped convince Deere to set up operations in Moline, IL.

Thursday, March 26, 2026

The Rogalski Center - 518 W. Locust St. Davenport, IA

5:00 p.m. | Doors Open

Heavy Hors D’oeuvres, Cash Bar, Displays, Raffle

6:00 p.m. | Program

Featuring Neil Dahlstrom, Patrick Allie, Dale Haake, & George Eaton

More Info & Tickets at RiverAction.org/HenryFarnam
Questions? Call 563-322-2969

Quad Cities Henry Farnam Evening Save the date for A Henry Farnam Evening on March 26, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. at the Rogalski Center in Davenport, IA. This year marks the 18th Henry Farnam evening since 2004. Join us as we hoist a toast to Henry Farnam and explore the history of John Deere. Enjoy heavy h...

10/03/2025

12/23/2024

Honoring Daniel Gordon: A Key Figure in Moline's History

Daniel Gordon played an instrumental role in shaping the early development of Moline. Arriving in 1843, he navigated logs down the Mississippi River to build his first home, paving the way for what would become our thriving city.

Gordon’s legacy is vast. His 100-acre farm and orchard, now part of the Forest Hill neighborhood and the site of Logan School, reflect his deep ties to the community. Over the years, he served in numerous roles, including Moline’s first village clerk (circa 1850), county surveyor, assessor, city supervisor, school trustee, and justice of the peace. He was also a teacher at Moline’s first school, located where City Hall now stands.

His contributions extended beyond governance and education. Gordon surveyed and established the boundary lines for the Iowa-Minnesota border, Riverside Cemetery, and helped plan the original dam connecting Rock Island to Arsenal Island. Around 1903, he hand-built “Help Chapel” to provide education to children in the Forest Hill neighborhood. Today, Gordon Memorial Church and Help Chapel stand at the corner of 26th Street and 14th Avenue, both undergoing redevelopment.

To recognize his enduring impact, the City of Moline Complete Streets Committee has approved an honorary street designation in Daniel Gordon’s name at 26th Street between 13th Avenue and 14th Avenue, a lasting tribute to a man who helped shape Moline.

12/06/2024

09/23/2024

We hope to see you tonight!

Join us for an Evening of Wallpaper History and Artistry!

📜 The History of Wallpaper, The Process of Making Wallpaper, and Viewing of Wallpaper
🖌️ Presented by: DUANE TIMM of Bassett & Vollum Wallpaper
📅 Monday, September 23rd – 7:00 p.m.
📍 Butterworth Educational Center
701 - 12th Avenue, Moline, Illinois
Parking available across 7th Street in the lot.

Founded in 1936, Bassett & Vollum Wallpaper has been at the forefront of design innovation. From post-WWII patterns to hand-blocked wallpaper from France, this company has an incredible history. Now located in Davenport, Iowa, they serve prestigious museums, historic homes, and private residences—continuing the art of traditional wallpaper-making with craftsmanship that’s truly unique.

This event is free and open to the public.

09/19/2024

Join us for an Evening of Wallpaper History and Artistry!

📜 The History of Wallpaper, The Process of Making Wallpaper, and Viewing of Wallpaper
🖌️ Presented by: DUANE TIMM of Bassett & Vollum Wallpaper
📅 Monday, September 23rd – 7:00 p.m.
📍 Butterworth Educational Center
701 - 12th Avenue, Moline, Illinois
Parking available across 7th Street in the lot.

Founded in 1936, Bassett & Vollum Wallpaper has been at the forefront of design innovation. From post-WWII patterns to hand-blocked wallpaper from France, this company has an incredible history. Now located in Davenport, Iowa, they serve prestigious museums, historic homes, and private residences—continuing the art of traditional wallpaper-making with craftsmanship that’s truly unique.

This event is free and open to the public.

07/18/2024

The windmill building located at 3727 4th Ave in Moline was there for more than 90 years.

05/16/2024

🌟 Join us in supporting the Moline Preservation Society's mission to preserve our community's heritage! 🏛️ By donating to Birdies for Charity, you can help fund essential projects that safeguard our historical landmarks for generations to come. Every contribution counts towards preserving the rich history and cultural identity of Moline. Together, let's make a difference! Donate today and make your mark on history.

MPS is excited to announce that we are registered to participate in the John Deere Classic's Birdies for Charity program. MPS will receive 100% of every pledge made to Bird #2349 plus an additional 5-10% bonus provided by the Birdies for Charity Bonus Fund. Use the included link below to show your support!

USE THIS URL: https://birdiesforcharity.com/donate?charity=2349