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    • Play On! German Immigrants and the Quad Cities’ Musical Legacy
    • Violins of Hope Iowa
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  • Donate
  • Visit
    • TOURS
    • Accessibility
    • HOURS & LOCATION
    • BECOME A MEMBER
    • ADMISSION
    • GIFT SHOP
  • Exhibits
    • The German Immigrant Experience
    • Play On! German Immigrants and the Quad Cities’ Musical Legacy
    • Violins of Hope Iowa
    • Past Exhibitions
  • Learn
    • GAHC From Home
    • Internships
    • Volunteer
    • Resources
    • Translation Services
    • Book Discussions​
    • Travel
  • Events
  • About
    • About Us
    • Collections
    • DEAI Statement
    • Staff
    • Employment Opportunities
    • Newsletter
    • Contact Us
    • Media Kit
  • Private Events
  • Donate

Volunteer

Volunteer with us

Learn about the Museum

You can make a difference!

Explore our opportunities

Whether it’s greeting visitors, serving on a committee, or helping with special events, dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers are a vital part of the museum’s existence.

There are many opportunities to get involved at the German American Heritage Center and Museum. We’re always looking for friendly faces to help in the museum and with our many programs and events. Spend some time doing something you enjoy for the sake of our shared community!

Thinking About Getting Involved?
Share some basic contact information and what you are interested in volunteering for and we’ll be in touch!
Email Aaron Baker at [email protected] or call 563-322-8844.

Front Desk Volunteers

As a front desk volunteer, you’ll be the first to welcome guests to the museum! Take admission tickets, help with wayfinding, share happenings, answer questions, and assist with stocking items in our gift shop. This opportunity is available Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

For questions and further information, please contact Aaron Baker at [email protected].

Special Event Volunteers

We rely on volunteers to help with our special events throughout the year. 

We host a variety of fun and fascinating events each year ranging from our annual Oktoberfest, Best of the Wurst, VW Car Show, Vendor Fairs, and more. Our events bring culture and community together while raising funds for the museum. These events would not be possible without the help of our volunteers.

For questions and further information, please contact Aaron Baker at [email protected].

Join a Committee

We have numerous committees that are constantly working on new ideas to improve and make decisions on behalf of the museum. 

Participate in one of our many committees and bring your perspective and expertise to our organization. Committees typically meet every 8 weeks.

Our current committees:

  • Programming Committee
  • Building and Grounds Committee
  • Marketing Committee
  • Events Committee
  • Finance Committee
  • Governance Committee

For questions and further information, please contact Kirk Marske at [email protected].

Join our Board of Directors

Looking to be involved in a more meaningful way? Consider joining our Board of Directors to be a part of decision-making that makes a long-lasting impact on our organization. 

Join our board of directors and bring your diverse skill set and perspective to the GAHC+M. The Board of Directors meets every 8 weeks and makes strategic decisions for the short- and long-term sustainability of the museum.

For further information and a board application, please contact Kirk Marske at [email protected].

"Museums like the GAHC+M help bring people together on common ground, provide insight into the past, and allow for creativity and growth both mentally and spiritually.”
Lee M.
Lee M.
"Volunteering has given me the opportunity to be a part of living history and reminding people of the forgotten. History feels so much more real when you’re standing on or near the location where these events took place."
LaDella G.
LaDella G.
"Being involved in the program committee is a creative outlet. I get to brainstorm like mad with other people. Nothing's off the table. I can dream. I can make connections. I can learn. I can influence. I can support. I can admire. I can make a little bit of difference.”
Hedy H.
Hedy H.
"In addition to giving you purpose, you are learning new skills, meeting new people, and making a difference in an organization. The staff keeps me well informed, asks for input and ideas, and makes me feel valued.”
Donna P.
Donna P.
"Volunteering enriches one's life and provides a purposeful role in the community. The cultural enrichment that comes from volunteering promotes empathy and a deeper appreciation of civilization and our heritage.“
Chris S.
Chris S.
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German American Heritage Center and Museum

germanamericanheritagecenter

1,384 1,733

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

Open
In 2026, we celebrate the semiquincentennial (250) of the United States! Follow along as we highlight influential German immigrants throughout the history of the United States.

In 1733, John Peter Zenger (October 26, 1697 – July 28, 1746) traveled to America from the Palatinate as an indentured servant. He founded The New York Weekly Journal, the first independent newspaper in America. 

As issues were published, Zenger was soon sued for libel based on articles that accused the British governor of New York, William Cosby, of abusing his power over the colonies.

Two years later, with the help of his defense lawyer, Alexander Hamilton, Zenger was acquitted. The case established the principle that one could not be found guilty for publishing the truth, helping to lay the groundwork for freedom of the press in the colonies.

Their fight against censorship and suppression laid the foundation for the people’s rights and the broader struggle for colonial justice.

Image: Andrew Hamilton defending John Peter Zenger in court, 1734. Library of Congress. Caption: "By no means," exclaimed Hamilton, in his clear, thrilling, silvery voice, "It is not the bar, printing and publishing of a paper that will make it a libel, the words themselves must be libelous, that is false, scandalous, and seditious, else my client is not guilty." Page 558.

In 2026, we celebrate the semiquincentennial (250) of the United States! Follow along as we highlight influential German immigrants throughout the history of the United States.

In 1733, John Peter Zenger (October 26, 1697 – July 28, 1746) traveled to America from the Palatinate as an indentured servant. He founded The New York Weekly Journal, the first independent newspaper in America.

As issues were published, Zenger was soon sued for libel based on articles that accused the British governor of New York, William Cosby, of abusing his power over the colonies.

Two years later, with the help of his defense lawyer, Alexander Hamilton, Zenger was acquitted. The case established the principle that one could not be found guilty for publishing the truth, helping to lay the groundwork for freedom of the press in the colonies.

Their fight against censorship and suppression laid the foundation for the people’s rights and the broader struggle for colonial justice.

Image: Andrew Hamilton defending John Peter Zenger in court, 1734. Library of Congress. Caption: "By no means," exclaimed Hamilton, in his clear, thrilling, silvery voice, "It is not the bar, printing and publishing of a paper that will make it a libel, the words themselves must be libelous, that is false, scandalous, and seditious, else my client is not guilty." Page 558.
…

Open
We have loved seeing our visitors' thoughtful responses to the Violins of Hope. 

During the Holocaust, Jewish musicians played the violin to bring hope to their communities. Musicians relied on their instrument to help feed their families. 

"Lagerkapellen," or camp orchestras, were musical ensembles made up of imprisoned people in Nazi concentration camps, forced by the SS to perform during marches, roll calls, and even executions. These groups played marches, classical pieces, and sometimes were cruelly ordered to play “Tango of Death” selections to enforce labor rhythm, entertain guards, and inflict psychological torment. Though created under coercion, some prisoner-musicians used music quietly as an act of resilience and survival. 

Many of these imprisoned musicians were able to survive because of their role in the orchestras. Many stopped playing after they were freed because of the trauma associated with their instruments and the music. 

🕊️What gives you hope when life feels difficult?

🕊️What gives you courage to speak out against hate and violence?

🕊️If you could pass one message forward to the next generation, what would it be?

🕊️How can you use your voice, art, or kindness to bring hope to others?

We have loved seeing our visitors` thoughtful responses to the Violins of Hope.

During the Holocaust, Jewish musicians played the violin to bring hope to their communities. Musicians relied on their instrument to help feed their families.

"Lagerkapellen," or camp orchestras, were musical ensembles made up of imprisoned people in Nazi concentration camps, forced by the SS to perform during marches, roll calls, and even executions. These groups played marches, classical pieces, and sometimes were cruelly ordered to play “Tango of Death” selections to enforce labor rhythm, entertain guards, and inflict psychological torment. Though created under coercion, some prisoner-musicians used music quietly as an act of resilience and survival.

Many of these imprisoned musicians were able to survive because of their role in the orchestras. Many stopped playing after they were freed because of the trauma associated with their instruments and the music.

🕊️What gives you hope when life feels difficult?

🕊️What gives you courage to speak out against hate and violence?

🕊️If you could pass one message forward to the next generation, what would it be?

🕊️How can you use your voice, art, or kindness to bring hope to others?
…

Open
This violin belonged to Ole Steffen Dahl, a resistance fighter with the Danish Army who helped transport 7,200 Jewish Danes to safety in Sweden in 1943. 

Ole Dahl was also a luthier—a craftsperson who builds or repairs string instruments. This violin belonged to Steffen as a child, and he kept it with him his entire life. After his death, his son Chris kept this violin on a shelf at home for about 20 years. 

In 2023, Chris donated his father’s violin to the Violins of Hope project. 

You can see this violin on display at the museum through April 12th, and then will be transferred to Sioux City, Iowa to be played in their Symphony concerts. The Violins of Hope exhibiton will be at the German American Heritage Center and Museum through April 26th, 2026.

#violinsofhope #violins #history #museum

This violin belonged to Ole Steffen Dahl, a resistance fighter with the Danish Army who helped transport 7,200 Jewish Danes to safety in Sweden in 1943.

Ole Dahl was also a luthier—a craftsperson who builds or repairs string instruments. This violin belonged to Steffen as a child, and he kept it with him his entire life. After his death, his son Chris kept this violin on a shelf at home for about 20 years.

In 2023, Chris donated his father’s violin to the Violins of Hope project.

You can see this violin on display at the museum through April 12th, and then will be transferred to Sioux City, Iowa to be played in their Symphony concerts. The Violins of Hope exhibiton will be at the German American Heritage Center and Museum through April 26th, 2026.

#violinsofhope #violins #history #museum
…

Open
We're looking forward to some unique gifts and jewelry from our vendors on Saturday at our Eiermarkt Spring Vendor Market  from 10 am - 2 pm.

Here's a sneak peek at some of our vendors who will be here this weekend: 
Plants by Brad - will have a selection of live plants and crystals.
Mi Bella Resin - epoxy resin keychains, trays, and more, crocheted shawls, market bags, and earrings.
Trixie's Tipsy Teapots - yard art made out of repurposed teapots and other seasonal home decor.

FREE ADMISSION to the market and the museum all day. Browse for gifts and discover all our vendors have to offer. 
🗓️ Saturday March 28th, 2026
⏰ 10 am - 2 pm
📍 712 W 2nd St. Davenport, Iowa

We`re looking forward to some unique gifts and jewelry from our vendors on Saturday at our Eiermarkt Spring Vendor Market from 10 am – 2 pm.

Here`s a sneak peek at some of our vendors who will be here this weekend:
Plants by Brad – will have a selection of live plants and crystals.
Mi Bella Resin – epoxy resin keychains, trays, and more, crocheted shawls, market bags, and earrings.
Trixie`s Tipsy Teapots – yard art made out of repurposed teapots and other seasonal home decor.

FREE ADMISSION to the market and the museum all day. Browse for gifts and discover all our vendors have to offer.
🗓️ Saturday March 28th, 2026
⏰ 10 am – 2 pm
📍 712 W 2nd St. Davenport, Iowa
…

Open
What was the GAHC+M like in the 90s? 

After the purchase of our building in 1994, volunteers and community members came together to restore the former Standard Hotel and transform it into a museum and cultural heritage space. The 1860s building served as a modest hotel for early immigrants who ultimately settled in the Quad Cities area.

Over 30 years later, our vibrant organization has grown and become a landmark for preserving the immigrant stories that helped shape our community today. We're so thankful to those who had a vision and  were committed to a seemingly impossible task that became so much more than just "saving an old building."

Do you remember the building before the renovation?
#90s #museum #history #quadcities #qcthatswhere #QC #Iowa #Illinois

What was the GAHC+M like in the 90s?

After the purchase of our building in 1994, volunteers and community members came together to restore the former Standard Hotel and transform it into a museum and cultural heritage space. The 1860s building served as a modest hotel for early immigrants who ultimately settled in the Quad Cities area.

Over 30 years later, our vibrant organization has grown and become a landmark for preserving the immigrant stories that helped shape our community today. We`re so thankful to those who had a vision and were committed to a seemingly impossible task that became so much more than just "saving an old building."

Do you remember the building before the renovation?
#90s #museum #history #quadcities #qcthatswhere #QC #Iowa #Illinois
…

Open
We're looking forward to some unique gifts and goods from our vendors on Saturday at our Eiermarkt Spring Vendor Market  from 10 am - 2 pm.

Here's a sneak peek at some of our vendors who will be here this weekend: 
Becky Powell - Handmade goat milk soaps and lotions.

Heritage Natural Lather - andcrafted in Peoria, Illinois, we are a small-batch soap company committed to all-natural ingredients and local sustainability. HNL partners with neighboring makers and businesses to incorporate their natural byproducts—such as coffee grounds or flower petals—into soap bars, reducing waste and honoring those working to keep our economy local. From traditional German Soleseife (brine soap) to a variety of other nourishing formulations, Heritage Natural Lather products seek to transform your daily rituals into moments of precious pause.

FREE ADMISSION to the market and the museum all day. Browse for gifts and discover all our vendors have to offer. 
🗓️ Saturday March 28th, 2026
⏰ 10 am - 2 pm
📍 712 W 2nd St. Davenport, Iowa

We`re looking forward to some unique gifts and goods from our vendors on Saturday at our Eiermarkt Spring Vendor Market from 10 am – 2 pm.

Here`s a sneak peek at some of our vendors who will be here this weekend:
Becky Powell – Handmade goat milk soaps and lotions.

Heritage Natural Lather – andcrafted in Peoria, Illinois, we are a small-batch soap company committed to all-natural ingredients and local sustainability. HNL partners with neighboring makers and businesses to incorporate their natural byproducts—such as coffee grounds or flower petals—into soap bars, reducing waste and honoring those working to keep our economy local. From traditional German Soleseife (brine soap) to a variety of other nourishing formulations, Heritage Natural Lather products seek to transform your daily rituals into moments of precious pause.

FREE ADMISSION to the market and the museum all day. Browse for gifts and discover all our vendors have to offer.
🗓️ Saturday March 28th, 2026
⏰ 10 am – 2 pm
📍 712 W 2nd St. Davenport, Iowa
…

Open
We're looking forward to some unique gifts and jewelry from our vendors on Saturday at our Eiermarkt Spring Vendor Market  from 10 am - 2 pm.

Here's a sneak peek at some of our vendors who will be here this weekend: 
Silver Spoon Rings & Things - Jewelry made out of repurposed silverware and birdbaths.
T Sage Jewelry Designs - One-of-a-kind handmade and designed jewelry made from polymer clay.
Sharon's Christal Palace - Sterling silver and gemstone jewelry, earrings, bracelets, pendants, rings, minerals out of semi precious stones.
kacielynnheals | Soul Coach -  Handmade collage art pieces, books, tarot decks, incense, crystal jewelry, and more.

FREE ADMISSION to the market and the museum all day. Browse for gifts and discover all our vendors have to offer. 
🗓️ Saturday March 28th, 2026
⏰ 10 am - 2 pm
📍 712 W 2nd St. Davenport, Iowa

We`re looking forward to some unique gifts and jewelry from our vendors on Saturday at our Eiermarkt Spring Vendor Market from 10 am – 2 pm.

Here`s a sneak peek at some of our vendors who will be here this weekend:
Silver Spoon Rings & Things – Jewelry made out of repurposed silverware and birdbaths.
T Sage Jewelry Designs – One-of-a-kind handmade and designed jewelry made from polymer clay.
Sharon`s Christal Palace – Sterling silver and gemstone jewelry, earrings, bracelets, pendants, rings, minerals out of semi precious stones.
kacielynnheals | Soul Coach – Handmade collage art pieces, books, tarot decks, incense, crystal jewelry, and more.

FREE ADMISSION to the market and the museum all day. Browse for gifts and discover all our vendors have to offer.
🗓️ Saturday March 28th, 2026
⏰ 10 am – 2 pm
📍 712 W 2nd St. Davenport, Iowa
…

Open
We're looking forward to some unique gifts and art from our vendors on Saturday at our Eiermarkt Spring Vendor Market from 10 am - 2 pm.

Here's a sneak peek at some of our vendors who will be here this weekend: 
@prayerful.arts - Handmade pysanky eggs (traditional folk art), jewelry, and more.
 
@painted_wildflower - Painted artwork featuring bold florals and landscapes. 
Make sure to check out Painted Wildflower's custom painted ceramic pieces of our building! Available in the museum's gift shop.

FREE ADMISSION to the market and the museum all day. Browse for gifts and discover all our vendors have to offer. 
🗓️ Saturday March 28th, 2026
⏰ 10 am - 2 pm
📍 712 W 2nd St. Davenport, Iowa

We`re looking forward to some unique gifts and art from our vendors on Saturday at our Eiermarkt Spring Vendor Market from 10 am – 2 pm.

Here`s a sneak peek at some of our vendors who will be here this weekend:
@prayerful.arts – Handmade pysanky eggs (traditional folk art), jewelry, and more.

@painted_wildflower – Painted artwork featuring bold florals and landscapes.
Make sure to check out Painted Wildflower`s custom painted ceramic pieces of our building! Available in the museum`s gift shop.

FREE ADMISSION to the market and the museum all day. Browse for gifts and discover all our vendors have to offer.
🗓️ Saturday March 28th, 2026
⏰ 10 am – 2 pm
📍 712 W 2nd St. Davenport, Iowa
…

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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