Joseph F. Bettendorf House

The Joseph F. Bettendorf House is a large residence in Bettendorf, Iowa, standing on an expansive property with 28 rooms, marble fireplaces, and lead glass windows. The building features ornate ceilings and was constructed with high-quality materials and detailed craftsmanship throughout.

The house was built between 1914 and 1915 by industrialist Joseph Bettendorf and later added to the National Register of Historic Places. This designation recognized the building as an important example of wealthy residential architecture from the industrial era.

European craftsmen created the detailed architectural elements that reflect early 20th-century English Manor style throughout the residence. Visitors can see these handcrafted details in the ornate ceilings and lead glass windows, which show the influence of European building traditions.

The property now functions as a private educational institution that maintains the building's historical characteristics. Visitors should check access information before planning a visit, as the grounds are in active use and may have limited public access.

The third floor housed a grand ballroom, while the grounds included tennis courts, stables, a greenhouse, and formal gardens surrounding a pond. These amenities reflect the wealth the family enjoyed during the early 1900s.