[2] It became an affiliate of the national network of Lend-A-Hand Clubs launched during the 1870s by Edward Everett Hale, a Unitarian minister who had risen to nationwide prominence as an abolitionist and writer for the Atlantic Monthly prior to the American Civil War.

When it moved to larger facilities it expanded to a cafeteria, reading rooms, parlor, shower and bath, laundry, arts and crafts, and a gymnasium.

The Lend-A-Hand Club was the city's main woman's service facility and usurped any potential for the YWCA to establish itself in Davenport.

[2] Money was raised and in 1922 a permanent location was secured and a building was constructed along South Main Street opposite the Dillon Memorial.

The shape of the building allowed the residential spaces to receive full natural light and air circulation.