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  • Exhibits
    • The German Immigrant Experience
    • Everyday Lives, Extraordinary Voices: Ruth Suckow’s Iowa
    • Shaped By Immigrants: Celebrating 250 Years of the United States
    • Past Exhibitions
  • Learn
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Private Events

Private Event Rentals

Miller Hall on the River

Host your event in our beautiful historic building with views of the Mississippi River and downtown Davenport.

Miller Hall on the River

Located on the 4th floor of the German American Heritage Center and Museum, Miller Hall is the ideal place to host your event!  This renovated space is perfect for small and medium-sized events like wedding receptions, graduation parties, bridal and baby showers, company gatherings, family reunions, holiday parties,  celebrations of life, and more. Boasting beautiful views of the Mississippi River and downtown Davenport, our unique space is unlike any other in the area.

Our rental rate starts at $300 for 3 hours and $100 per additional hour, making us the affordable option in the Quad Cities, too.

A $100 security deposit is required to book Miller Hall (refundable after the rental – see contract for details).

To check availability and learn more about Miller Hall, please complete this form and we will contact you with more information.  Tours of Miller Hall are available by appointment.

Contact Us

To inquire about renting Miller Hall on the River, contact Elena Hull, Rental Coordinator – [email protected] or (563) 322-8844 x 4.

What are your rental rates?

Our rental rate starts at $300 for 3 hours and $100 per additional hour.  A $100 security deposit is required to book Miller Hall (refundable after the rental – see contract for details).

What is seating capacity?

Our space can comfortably hold 100 guests for a seated event, and 150 guests for a cocktail-style setup.

What amenities are included?

– No catering contracts, so you can choose your own licensed caterer

– Kitchenette including refrigerator, sink, and microwave
– Audio/visual equipment
– Two private restrooms
– Handicapped accessible
– Views of the Mississippi River and downtown Davenport
– Private parking
Do GAHC&M members get a discount?

Yes! Members of the GAHC+M receive a 10% discount on their rental rate for Miller Hall on the River.

Can I decorate?

Decorations and personal touches are welcome for any event. All table coverings and decorations are provided by the renter. We ask that you do not use tape on the walls or loose glitter. Everything must be removed and cleaned up by the end of the rental period. 

Can I use the supplies in the kitchenette?

The utensils and paper products are not to be used for rental parties. All cutlery, plates, napkins, cups, and utensils should be provided by the renter. 

Do you cater?

Miller Hall does not provide catering service but the rental party is free to bring their own refreshments or cater from the licensed provider of their choice. 

Can I have alcohol at my event?

Yes. We charge a $50 fee to add beer and/or wine to your event.  Renters must order their alcohol through Miller Hall, and alcohol orders must be placed no later than 5 days before the event. No hard liquor allowed per our liquor license. Violations of this policy result in immediate cancellation of the event and forfeiture of the rental fee and security deposit. 

Can my guests have access to the museum exhibitions?

Yes, you can add museum access during your event for a  fee of $50. This includes access to our 1st floor gallery and 3rd floor exhibits. for the duration of your event. No food or drink is allowed in the exhibit areas.

Do you offer non-profit discounts?

Yes! If you are with a non-profit organization we offer a 10% discount off of your full rental fee. Renter must provide tax status documentation upon request. 

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German American Heritage Center and Museum

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Museum exploring the German immigrant experience and history of Davenport and Iowa!

Open
Guests who never checked out, Part 3: Albert Shawcross.

There have been several fires throughout the history of our building. One of the most horrifying is the story of Albert Shawcross. In a drunken stupor, Albert was heading to bed when he accidentally knocked his oil lamp off the side table and onto himself. His clothing quickly went up in flames and seeking help, went to the halls to find anyone else around. The only other person in the halls was a blind man, who could not see what was happening but could feel the heat from the man in front of him. 

Unfortunately, Albert did not survive this accident. He was pronounced d*ad at the hospital after the ambulance was called to take him to a doctor. Do you think Albert could still be roaming the halls?

Guests who never checked out, Part 3: Albert Shawcross.

There have been several fires throughout the history of our building. One of the most horrifying is the story of Albert Shawcross. In a drunken stupor, Albert was heading to bed when he accidentally knocked his oil lamp off the side table and onto himself. His clothing quickly went up in flames and seeking help, went to the halls to find anyone else around. The only other person in the halls was a blind man, who could not see what was happening but could feel the heat from the man in front of him.

Unfortunately, Albert did not survive this accident. He was pronounced d*ad at the hospital after the ambulance was called to take him to a doctor. Do you think Albert could still be roaming the halls?
…

Open
Guests who never checked out, Part 2: Paul Löbel
In 1891, Paul Löbel went up to his room at the Germania House, agitated and feeling the withdrawls of alcohol since he had been refused service at the bar. In his frenzy, he decided to drink chloral hydrate, commonly used for sedation or relaxation, but in large doses can be fatal. Paul took too much, and was discovered the next morning.

Guests who never checked out, Part 2: Paul Löbel
In 1891, Paul Löbel went up to his room at the Germania House, agitated and feeling the withdrawls of alcohol since he had been refused service at the bar. In his frenzy, he decided to drink chloral hydrate, commonly used for sedation or relaxation, but in large doses can be fatal. Paul took too much, and was discovered the next morning.
…

Open
🇩🇪 October 6 is German-American Day, established in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan to celebrate German-American heritage and commemorate the founding of Germantown, Pennsylvania in 1683.

Today is also the traditional kickoff to the Annual Appeal for the German American Heritage Center and Museum, and all contributions provide support for our operations, exhibitions, programs, and events throughout the year.  Look for information about our 2026 Annual Appeal this fall in your mailbox, on our social media platforms, and in our e-newsletters.  Donation checks can also be mailed to the German American Heritage Center and Museum, 712 W. 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52802 through the end of the year.  Or, donate online on our Donation page at www.gahc.org.

Every donation to the Annual Appeal - in any amount - supports our National Historic Site and arts and culture in the Quad Cities.

🇩🇪 October 6 is German-American Day, established in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan to celebrate German-American heritage and commemorate the founding of Germantown, Pennsylvania in 1683.

Today is also the traditional kickoff to the Annual Appeal for the German American Heritage Center and Museum, and all contributions provide support for our operations, exhibitions, programs, and events throughout the year. Look for information about our 2026 Annual Appeal this fall in your mailbox, on our social media platforms, and in our e-newsletters. Donation checks can also be mailed to the German American Heritage Center and Museum, 712 W. 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52802 through the end of the year. Or, donate online on our Donation page at www.gahc.org.

Every donation to the Annual Appeal – in any amount – supports our National Historic Site and arts and culture in the Quad Cities.
…

Open
Guests Who Never Checked Out: Part 1, Viola Banderob
Content warning: death by s*icide

Viola was a widow who was staying at the Standard Hotel in 1953. She was lonely, had no living relatives, and was battling many health issues before she decided to take her life. We do not know much about her life and what she was experiencing personally, but it is a sad and unfortunately true part of our building’s history. At the time, there were not many resources available for people living with depression and it was taboo to talk about. We can only imagine her grief and struggles she was facing and have sympathy for her situation.

Guests Who Never Checked Out: Part 1, Viola Banderob
Content warning: death by s*icide

Viola was a widow who was staying at the Standard Hotel in 1953. She was lonely, had no living relatives, and was battling many health issues before she decided to take her life. We do not know much about her life and what she was experiencing personally, but it is a sad and unfortunately true part of our building’s history. At the time, there were not many resources available for people living with depression and it was taboo to talk about. We can only imagine her grief and struggles she was facing and have sympathy for her situation.
…

Open
👻 Is it haunted?? Find out for yourself on October 10th during our "Geisternacht" paranormal investigation of the former hotel-turned-museum. Tickets at $30 per person and include snacks throughout the night, plus access to a cash bar. All proceeds from this event support historic preservation and programming at the German American Hertiage Center and Museum. 
https://events.humanitix.com/geisternacht-paranormal-investigation-of-the-gahc-m 
Space is limited. Not recommended for children under 13. Anyone under 16 needs to be accompanied by an adult.

👻 Is it haunted?? Find out for yourself on October 10th during our "Geisternacht" paranormal investigation of the former hotel-turned-museum. Tickets at $30 per person and include snacks throughout the night, plus access to a cash bar. All proceeds from this event support historic preservation and programming at the German American Hertiage Center and Museum.
https://events.humanitix.com/geisternacht-paranormal-investigation-of-the-gahc-m
Space is limited. Not recommended for children under 13. Anyone under 16 needs to be accompanied by an adult.
…

Open
Purportedly based on a true story, The Lost One (1951) is a noir-inflected drama, told in flashback, about a doctor at a displaced persons camp haunted by his secret wartime experiments for the Nazis and his murder of his fiancée (and, subsequently, other women) out of jealousy or perverted patriotism. Remarkably bleak and unforgiving, Lorre’s film was not popular among postwar German audiences, who were not ready to confront the guilt and tragedy as a result of the Third Reich. 
You can see The Lost One (Der Verlorene) at the Last Picture House on September 30th. Get tickets online here: https://events.humanitix.com/film-series-at-the-last-picture-house-q2b9u4zv

Purportedly based on a true story, The Lost One (1951) is a noir-inflected drama, told in flashback, about a doctor at a displaced persons camp haunted by his secret wartime experiments for the Nazis and his murder of his fiancée (and, subsequently, other women) out of jealousy or perverted patriotism. Remarkably bleak and unforgiving, Lorre’s film was not popular among postwar German audiences, who were not ready to confront the guilt and tragedy as a result of the Third Reich.
You can see The Lost One (Der Verlorene) at the Last Picture House on September 30th. Get tickets online here: https://events.humanitix.com/film-series-at-the-last-picture-house-q2b9u4zv
…

Open
🏰 Your birth month = your German castle 
Selections based purely on vibes.

🏰 Your birth month = your German castle
Selections based purely on vibes.
…

Open
🇩🇪🍻 Thank you to everyone who came and enjoyed Oktoberfest on Saturday. We transformed our 4th floor into a beer hall to stay in from the rain! 

Thank you to our volunteers, staff, and everyone who made this event possible. A very special thank you to our sponsors whose support makes it possible for us to bring exciting cultural events to the Quad Cities. 

PRESENTING SPONSOR: Zimmerman Honda
VIP SPONSOR: Koehler Electric
BEER TENT SPONSOR: KQCJ Planet 93.9 with Dave & Darren
SITE SPONSOR: Downtown Davenport Partnership
MUSIC SPONSOR: Tyson Foods
STEINHOLDING CONTEST SPONSOR: Pinnacle Country Club
PRETZEL TABLE SPONSOR: Quad City Bank and Trust
WATER SPONSOR: Hy-vee
Professional sound services provided by Bill Lilleman.
Thank you to The Textures and Die Musikmeisters for providing music throughout the day. 

Proceeds from this event benefit the German American Heritage Center and Museum's operations, programs, and community outreach. Thank YOU to our community for showing up and supporting cultural institutions in the Quad Cities.

🇩🇪🍻 Thank you to everyone who came and enjoyed Oktoberfest on Saturday. We transformed our 4th floor into a beer hall to stay in from the rain!

Thank you to our volunteers, staff, and everyone who made this event possible. A very special thank you to our sponsors whose support makes it possible for us to bring exciting cultural events to the Quad Cities.

PRESENTING SPONSOR: Zimmerman Honda
VIP SPONSOR: Koehler Electric
BEER TENT SPONSOR: KQCJ Planet 93.9 with Dave & Darren
SITE SPONSOR: Downtown Davenport Partnership
MUSIC SPONSOR: Tyson Foods
STEINHOLDING CONTEST SPONSOR: Pinnacle Country Club
PRETZEL TABLE SPONSOR: Quad City Bank and Trust
WATER SPONSOR: Hy-vee
Professional sound services provided by Bill Lilleman.
Thank you to The Textures and Die Musikmeisters for providing music throughout the day.

Proceeds from this event benefit the German American Heritage Center and Museum`s operations, programs, and community outreach. Thank YOU to our community for showing up and supporting cultural institutions in the Quad Cities.
…

VISIT US

German American Heritage Center & Museum
712 W 2nd St.
Davenport, IA 52802

HOURS

Tuesdays – Saturdays open 10 am – 4 pm
Sundays open 12 – 4 pm
Closed Mondays
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German American Heritage Center & Museum
712 W 2nd St.
Davenport, IA 52802
Tuesdays – Saturdays open 10 am – 4 pm
Sundays open 12 – 4 pm
Closed Mondays

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