Lafayette Park

Historic Origins

Located at 700 West 4th Street in Davenport, Iowa, Lafayette Park is a 2-acre green space with quite the backstory. Dating back to 1839, it shares the title of Davenport's oldest park with Washington Square - pretty impressive heritage for this modest urban retreat.

Antoine Le Claire, one of Davenport's founding figures, dedicated this land specifically for "park purposes." Tucked between Fourth and Fifth Streets and Brown and Gaines Streets, it's been providing a breath of fresh air in the city for nearly two centuries.

Namesake

Wondering about the name? The park pays tribute to Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette - and yes, that's quite a mouthful! He was a French aristocrat and military officer who played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War.

Park Evolution

Lafayette Park hasn't stayed frozen in time. In 1899, visitors gained access to a cast iron drinking fountain - a practical addition for the era.

The early 20th century saw the introduction of playgrounds, as Davenport embraced the growing movement to create recreational spaces for children. The 1940s brought a wading pool to the park, which later transformed into a spray park before being removed entirely in 1950.

Modern Amenities

Fast forward to 2010, when the Parks and Recreation Department gave the park a thoughtful update with a historically appropriate sign and an ADA-compliant playground - making fun accessible to all children.

Today's playground features equipment for kids of various ages. The see-through tunnel slide is a particular hit with the younger crowd, and the swings remain a timeless favorite. The playground equipment has received recent updates, keeping everything safe and engaging for the next generation of park-goers.

Note that there aren't any restroom facilities here, so plan accordingly. Also, the seating near the playground is somewhat limited - something to keep in mind if you're planning an extended visit.

Community Use

Lafayette Park continues its long tradition as a peaceful neighborhood gathering spot. The open grassy areas invite impromptu games or peaceful picnics, while the basketball court offers more active recreation options. It's a space that has adapted with the times while continuing to serve the neighborhood.