Historic Resource Development Program (HRDP) Grant_Mathias Ham House Copyrighted
April 16, 2018
City of Dubuque Consent Items # 18.
ITEM TITLE: Historic Resource Development Program (HRDP) Grant
Application - Mathias Ham House
SUMMARY: City Manager recommending approval of a resolution in
support of Dubuque County Historical Society's application
for the Historic Resource Development Program for a
Conditions Assessment Report of the Mathias Ham House.
RESOLUTION Approving HRDP Grant Application to State
Historic Preservation Office for Conditions Assessment
Report of the Mathias Ham House
SUGGESTED DISPOSITION: Suggested Disposition: Receive and File; Adopt
Resolution(s)
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type
Mathias Ham House HRDP Application-NNM Memo City Manager Memo
Staff Memo Staff Memo
GrantApplication Supporting Documentation
Log Cabin Conditon Report and Estimate Supporting Documentation
HRDP Grant letter of support Supporting Documentation
Resolution Resolutions
THE CITY OF Dubuque
�
AIFA�erlwGh
UB E '�� III►
Masterpiece on the Mississippi Z°°'�w'2
7A13 2017
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Historic Resource Development Program Grant Application for Mathias
Ham House
DATE: April 5, 2018
Planning Services Manager Laura Carstens recommends City Council approval of a
resolution in support of Dubuque County Historical Society's application for the Historic
Resource Development Program for a Conditions Assessment Report of the Mathias
Ham House. Since the City of Dubuque owns the property, the grant program requires
written City approval of the request.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
�� �� ���
Mic ael C. Van Milligen �� �
MCVM:jh
Attachment
cc: Crenna Brumwell, City Attorney
Teri Goodmann, Assistant City Manager
Cori Burbach, Assistant City Manager
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
THE CTTY OF Dubuque
�"
ui���eNe�ary
DUB E 'il��i;'
Masterpiece on the Mississippi Z°°' Z°'Z
2013 2017
TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Laura Carstens, Planning Seroices Manager '-�'��
SUBJECT: HRDP Grant Application for Mathias Ham House
DATE: April 5, 2018
INTRODUCTION
This memo transmits for City Council approval, the Dubuque County Historical Society's
application for a Historic Resource Development Program (HRDP) Grant for Conditions
Assessment Report of the Mathias Ham House. Since the City of Dubuque owns the
property, the grant program requires written City approval of the request. The grant
application, supporting documents, letter of support, and resolution are enclosed.
DISCUSSION
The State Historic Preservation Office annually awards HRDP grant funds for
competitive projects that help to preserve, conserve, interpret, enhance, and educate
the public about lowa's historical assets. The City has received HRDP grants for the
Ham House and other historic preservation projects in the past.
The Mathias Ham House is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and
designated as a City Landmark Site. The Dubuque County Historical Society seeks
HRDP funding toward a Conditions Assessment Report of the Mathias Ham House.
Grant Writer Paula Neuhaus has provided this project summary:
The goal of this project is to hire consultants to conduct Conditions Assessment
Report of The Mathias Ham House. This property is owned by the City of
Dubuque, operated by the Dubuque County Historical Society (DCHS) as a
Museum, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. According to a lease
agreement, the City of Dubuque is responsible for the exterior of the Ham House
and DCHS is responsible for the interior. The purpose of this project is to conduct
a conditions assessment of The Mathias Ham House to produce a long-range
preservation plan for its interior. The Consultant Team, comprised of an architect
and a historic preservation professional, will identify issues and causes,
understand consequences of inaction, determine treatment, and create a
prioritized plan for preservation.
1
Ms. Neuhaus has provided a 2017 Conditions Assessment Report completed for the
Log Cabin that also sits at this City Landmark Site. This 2017 Report serves as an
example of what the HRDP Project would fund for the Ham House.
The City has a long collaboration with the Dubuque County Historical Society in
stewardship of the historic architecture and cultural heritage of this City Landmark Site.
The City's Historic Preservation Commission has the responsibility to promote the
protection, enhancement, and perpetuation of City landmarks through outreach,
education, and design review. The Conditions Assessment Report is crucial for the
continued opportunity to promote and conduct educational and interpretive programs at
a City Landmark Site like the Mathias Ham House.
BUDGETIMPACT
The Project Budget is summarized below. A full project budget is enclosed.
HRDP Grant Request $49,500
Cash Match 44,251
In-Kind Match 18,750
Total $112,501
There is no City expense involved in this HRDP project.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council approve the Dubuque County Historical Society's
application for an HRDP Grant for a Conditions Assessment Report of the Mathias Ham
House. The Dubuque County Historical Society's dedication to preserving and
interpreting the landmark site's history offers enriching and engaging experiences to
visitors and residents, furthering the social and cultural vibrancy of our community. This
project will further this effort.
REQUESTED ACTION
The requested action is to adopt the enclosed resolution in support of Dubuque County
Historical Society's application for the HRDP Grant for a Conditions Assessment Report
of the Mathias Ham House.
Enclosures
cc: Marie Ware, Leisure Services Manager
Jenny Larson, Budget Director
F:\USERS\LCARSTEN\WP\GRANTS\GRANTS- DCHS\Memo to MVM Ham House HRDP grant app.doc
2
Project Summary for the Dubuque County Historical Society's grant proposal to the
Historic Resources Development Program (HRDP) to fund Hiring a Consultant to Create
a Conditions Assessment Report for The Mathias Ham House FY2019
The following is a Project Summary for the HRDP application that Dubuque County Historical
Society plans to submit on Apri125, 2018.
Project Budget: 5112,501 Grant Request: $49,500
Title of project: Conditions Assessment Report of Mathias Ham House
Project Summary: The goal of this project is to hire consultants to conduct Conditions
Assessment Report of The Mathias Ham House. This property is owned by the City of Dubuque,
operated by the Dubuque County Historical Society (DCHS) as a Museum, and is on the National
Register of Historic Places. According to a lease agreement, the City of Dubuque is responsible
for the exterior of the Ham House and DCHS is responsible for the interior. The purpose ofthis
project is to conduct a conditions assessment of The Mathias Ham House to produce a long-
range preservation plan for its interior. The Consultant Team, comprised of an architect and a
historic preservation professional, will identify issues and causes, understand consequences of
inaction, determine treatment, and create a prioritized plan for preservation.
Project Scope: Consultants will engage in a 12-week process beginning with field
measurements and a room-by-room assessment of both buildings. The project will also create
drawings, document existing conditions, establish function of each floor, examining plasters
and decoratives, assess paint, and gather documentation. This project will result in a written
and visual report with prioritized recommendations that provides a starting point for taking
action, obtaining subsequent planning documents, and implementing future repairs. This report
will outline a plan that will incorporate both conservation and curatorial perspectives in
establishing prioritized short- and long-term goals for the preservation of the interior building.
This project also serves as a preliminary step to provide the foundation to establish a planning
and fundraising structure for DCHS's future goal of hiring consultants to create a Historic
Structure Report (HSR) and add credibility to capital campaigns and funding proposals for
future work.
Historical Significance: DCHS provides historical interpretation of the Mathias Ham House Site
to illustrate the early history of Dubuque as the family progressed from log cabin to Italian Villa.
School children from Dubuque and the tri-state area visit the Ham House to support classroom
curriculum on local history. The site also includes an 1880s one room schoolhouse, an 1840s
granary, and the 1927- Arriandeau Log Cabin. The Ham House is also the location of one of
Dubuque's most popular free family events,the Annual 4th of July Ice Cream Social.
The national historic importance of the National Register Mathias Ham House is well
documented. It is a 32-room limestone house designed by John Francis Rague whose designs
include the original lowa and Illinois state capitols and Dubuque's City Hall. It was recorded by
the Historic American Building Survey (HABS) and is used to illustrate the Italian Villa style in
Roger W. Moss's The American Country House (1991). The Ham House is a highly visible public
facility that embodies dedication to preserving Dubuque's history and buildings. The
importance ofthe Ham House to national history is equally as significant. Interpretation of the
house and grounds allows visitors and school groups to understand that not only was Dubuque
once the frontier, but it was also the location ofthe nation's first mineral rush years before the
California 49ers looked westward to find rich mineral deposits.
Goals&Objectives:
1. Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission's local preservation plan goals fulfilled
by this project include:
• Continued opportunity to promote and conduct educational and interpretive programs on a
key historic site in our community.
• Continue our ongoing protection of a historically and architecturally significant structure
that exemplifies the cultural,social, and architectural history of the nation,our state, and
our city.
2. A Conditions Assessment Report for the Ham House Historic Site fulfills the following State of
lowa's Preservation Goals:
• Promote prosperity and preservation as closely associated attributes of vibrant communities
and the natural environment: Foster historical interpretation that addresses the larger
context of the surrounding environment.
• Identify properties and districts at risk throughout the state and pair them with resources
and experienced preservationists.
• Quantify the economic value of historic preservation in lowa by promoting heritage tourism
as a growth industry.
This project, perhaps most importantly, fulfills DCHS's goal to preserve and maintain the National
Register Mathias Ham House. DCHS, in their ongoing mission to explore the life of Dubuque, the
Mississippi River,and the Rivers of America and their global connections, and to interpret,educate and
promote the conservation of their historical and natural environments, ultimately creates more
knowledgeable and engaged citizens and strengthens lowa's economy.
3. DCHS, through their museums,fulfills the following City of Dubuque goals for preservation and
cultural vibrancy:
• Present cultural exhibits and programs year round to enrich community life.
• Offer and promote programs and cultural events year round that are affordable and accessible.
• Utilize cultural programs and exhibits to encourage better understanding of the cultural
diversity of the world.
• Safeguard the cultural and historical resources of Dubuque and the Mississippi River.
• Promote the preservation and reuse of historic buildings and sites through support of adaptive
reuse and by provide guidance for restoration and preservation.
This Conditions Assessment Report will be used to leverage preservation of the site as a high priority and
to increase annual budget funds that can be allotted to these activities. DCHS's supportive Board of
Trustees value the Ham House Historic Site and are strong advocates for its preservation. The report will
provide important support for their continued promotion of preservation needs with museum
constituents and the public. DCHS Staff and Board will find the report both eye opening and educational,
as it will help to increase awareness, both internally and externally, about the intrinsic value of the site.
The goal of this Pre-Development project is to hire a consultant (team will consist of an
architect and historical preservation consultant) to prepare a Conditions Assessment Report for
these two National Register historic buildings and produce a long-range preservation plan.
Projected Timeline:
AUGUST 2018 -Send out RFPs to consultants for bids. Include desired qualifications ofthe
consultant to be hired, an outline of the project's deliverables, and final product to be given to
all bidders.
NOVEMBER 2018 - RFPs reviewed by staff and commission. Narrow candidates based on RFPs and
initiate any follow up conversations.
DECEMBER 2018 - Consultant is hired. Consultant completes questionnaire, to gather
information and examine the broad range of factors affecting site.
JANUARY 2019 - Consultant begins 8-week process of on-site assessment beginning with field
measurements that include a room-by-room assessment of Ham House: 4 weeks of field
measurements followed by 4 weeks assessing including any follow up site visits. (Winter start
date due to site closes for the season after the holidays).
MARCH-MAY 2019 - Consultant engages in estimated 4 weeks of reporting and editing final
document.
MAY-JUNE 2019 - Draft undergoes review and comment by project leader(s) and
commissioners. Discussions of draft with consultant by project leader(s).
JUNE 2019 - Consultant presents 75% completed draft of the report to project directors. Report
is sent to State Historical Society of lowa (SHPO) for review and approval. SHPO Officer will
provide feedback.
JULY-AUGUST 2019 - Draft undergoes review and comment by project leader(s) and Discussions
of draft with consultant by project leader(s).
SEPTEMBER-NOVEMBER 2019 - Consultant presents 100%completed draft of the report to
project directors. Report is sent to State Historical Society of lowa (SHPO) for review and
approval. SHPO Officer will provide feedback.
JANUARY-MARCH 2O20- Finalize and accept the Conditions Assessment Report. Report will
consist of needs listed in priority order.
Budget
Expense Grant Request($) Cash Match ($) In-Kind Match ($) Total ($)
Consultant Fees $49,500 $Z5,500 $0.00 $75,000
Staff $0.00 $18,751 $18,750 $37,501
TOTALS Grant Cash In-kind Total Cost
549,soo 544,zsi 51s,�so 511z,soi
Prepared by: Laura Carstens, City Planner Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St, Dubuque, IA 52001 Telephone: 589-4210
Return to: Kevin Firnstahl, City Clerk Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th St, Dubuque, IA 52001 Telephone: 589-4121
RESOLUTION NO. 97-18
RESOLUTION APPROVING HRDP GRANT APPLICATION TO STATE HISTORIC
PRESERVATION OFFICE FOR CONDITIONS ASSESSMENT REPORT OF THE
MATHIAS HAM HOUSE
Whereas, the State Historic Preservation Office has allocated Historic Resource
Development Program (HRDP) grant funds for projects that help to preserve, conserve,
interpret, enhance, and educate the public about Iowa's historical assets; and
Whereas, the City of Dubuque has adopted the 2017 Comprehensive Plan that
includes goals for educating the community about the benefits of historic preservation.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. The Dubuque County Historical Society is hereby authorized to submit
the HRDP Grant application to the State Historic Preservation Office for Conditions
Assessment Report of the Mathias Ham House, which is property owned by the City of
Dubuque.
Section 2. The City Manager is hereby authorized as the property owner
representative on the HRDP Ownership Certification Form for the application.
Passed, approved and adopted this 16th day of April, 2018.
David T. Resnicl, ayor Pro -Tem
Attest:
Kevin S. Firnstal , y Clerk
F:\USERS\LCARSTEN\WP\GRANTS\GRANTS - DCHS\FY18 HRDP Grant App Resolution.doc
STATE HISTORICAL HISTORICAL RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF IOWA
SOCIETY OF IOWA
Ownership Certification Form
Does the Appli�antown the histori�al resour�e?
� Yes
� No
Owner Information
If the Appli�antdoes notown the histori�al resour�e, �omplete the following information.
Owner Name: City of Dubuque
OwnerAddress 50 West 13th Street
Owner City,State Zip: Dubuque, IA 52001
Owner Email: ctymgr@cityofdubuque.org
OwnerPhone(daytime): 563-589-4110
Certification
� By[he[king this boz, I,(Name and Title), Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
as the owner of the histori�al resour�e,give my permission for the Appli�ant to�arry outthe proje�tdes�ribed in this REAP/HRDP grant
application.
Date: April 17, 2018
STATE HISTORICAL BUILDING•600 E LONASL•DES MOWES,IA 50319•IOWACULTUREGOV
A CONDITION ASSESSMENTAND RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR THE HAM HOUSE CABIN.
PREPAREDFOR
THE NATIONAL MISSISSIPPI RIVER MUSEUM AND AQUARIUM
DUBUQUE, IOWA
PREPARED BY JOSEPH GALLAGHER
BOISE, IDAHO
VWVW.LOGDOC.COM
INTRODUCTION
THE ASSESSMENT
This assessmentwas requested by Cristin Waterbury, Executive Director of the National Mississippi River Museum and
Aquarium (the Museum). She contacted Joseph Gallagher, who was wnrking in the Midwest, and used that wnrk as an
opportunity to obtain a condition assessment of the Ham House cabin (Figure 1). This building is said to date to 1827
and is believed to be the oldest structure in lowa. The wnrk was accomplished on April 18 and 19, 2017 by Mr. Gallagher
following the methodology reported by Goodall and Friedman (1980). The assessment used minimally invasive means,
including, probing with an awl; sounding with a flat bar, and visually inspecting the cabin thoroughly. There were on-site
visits with Ms. Waterbury and various staff and board members.
Refer to Appendix 1 for cardinal directions used in this report and its tables.
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Figure 1. Ham House Cabin. Dubuque, IA. " � <�
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BUILDING ELEMENTS
The roof
The roof of the cabin has been replaced several times in the past. The current roof is shakes laid over a 1"x8"? deck with
interleafed felt paper between the courses of shakes. The roof is in poor condition and needs to be removed and re-
placed. It is covered with moss, fungi and lichen. The felt paper is exposed in several places. The shakes are cupped,
lifting, loose and missing. The roof exhibits all the elements of a fully deteriorated roof (Figure 2 and 3).
+ /
`� Figure 2. Ham House Cabin. Roof covered
t'�::' `v� ��
on shaded side with moss and other debris �����y�,
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The roof is supported with pole rafters that are nailed at the peak to each other; they do not extend beyond the plate log
which allows rain and snow melt to drip onto the wall and splash back onto the logs after striking the ground at the drip
line. If there was an opportunity to extend the rafters this would potentially reduce long term maintenance costs The roof
covers about 455 square feet. It should be relaid with galvanized metal flashing spaced at 4-5 course intervals to prevent
the reoccurrence of moss and lichen. The galvanized metal should protrude 1" belowthe bottom of the shakes.
The gable ends of the roof are finished in shakes. These are at the end of their useful lives (Figures 6 and 7).
The Wall Logs
This cabin consists of two log pens separated by an approximately 10' breeze way or dog trot. The pens each measure,
16' E-W and 15'6" N-S. On the east end of the east pen and the west end of the west pen are stone chimneys.
. i 4 6 � i i Figure 3. Ham House Cabin. Deteriorated
� � �����f � � - � ; �u� � ' � roof with loose, missing shakes. Felt paper is
� � ..,, , � � �C(�� l r, � � visble.
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_ _ . ._ _ . -�_ �M 4
The oldest photo of the building, before it was moved, does not show a chimney, though only one end of the cabin is visi-
ble in the image (Figure 4). The first dated image (1919) shows a single stone chimney with a brick shaft; the other end
has a window. At an unknown time, the second chimney was added. When the second chimney was erected it had a log
shaft over a stone lower body. When the brick shaft was converted to log is unknown. But when the first photo of the
cabin with two chimneys appears, there are two chimneys with log shafts and a stone body. These log uppers lasted at
least until 1983. Currently both chimneys are stone. Figuring out the dates of these changes may help to the understand
of the dates of the alterations to this cabin.
The logs are of various diameters Figure a. Ham House cabin. shown in its
�anging f�om 8" to 11". The log original location in Dubuque before moving. ti"��-.-
walls are construded of hewn unknown date. �'�-�`_� .
and round logs with wnoden � � r� �' ' .
chinking and various mixtures of - '����, � �,_" '
masonry daubing. The space be- �� � , �"�^� � b•�
tween the logs also varied in size. � �q� "
,. �� ��,�� � ' .�
The daubing gives evidence of ' p 4 ,l �. ��
having been repaired or replaced .,p �,'�` �� � a` � \ �
� � b . �� ,� ��. �' - ,
at several times in the past. Much � �..` � �
is too deteriorated to reuse. R ,��:.� 1d��`��•� �< <'�, "�:
was probably replaced when the � �+y 'N � �.. .. �. �'"".� ,� ��
cabin was moved. No original ��S-�+� � �'��� ��!�"'°Y"��0, �j'�` ,�: ��I
daubing from the image in Figure � �' � � � ��� i � ��
4 is likely to remain. The logs �: . ` " .` � -' - � i� ' I��' ,., �F ',
range from good, acceptable con A` �''(�.cr'""�"^—�—�'�'- -
��t �� �,��
dition to badly decayed and in ��-,� � ��.= —`°'-��— ,,,,��"`� � � � � .��� �`
need of replacement. Tables 1-8 ��'_,, . �J ��, ��-_
contain the assessments and rec- �-��v.���,_- w�.,�„� �� ;,, �- � . � .,
ommendation for each wall log. . - ,`.-.<�_<.== _� = '
— i ?
JVYr
5
Table 1 East Pen
Log Number Fa�ade Condition Recommendations
S1 SOUth Serious decay Splice a new crown on east end; reface the log
S2E South Checked Clean and Borate
S2W South Checked Clean and Borate
S3E South Checked Clean and Borate
S3W South Checked Clean and Borate
S4W South Deep check Clean and Borate
S4W South Deep Check Clean and Borate
S5E South Deep check Clean and Borate
S5W South Deep check Clean and Borate
S6E South Deep check Clean and Borate
S6W South Deep check Clean and Borate
S7 South Deep check Clean and Borate
S8 South Deep check Clean and Borate
6
Table 2 East Pen
Log Number Facade Condition Recommendation
E1 S East Missing Replace
E2S East Acceptable Clean and Borate
E3S East Serious Decay Replace
E4S East Acceptable Clean and Borate
E5S East Serious Decay Replace
E6S East Some Decay-Original Retain, Clean and Borate
Log
E7S East " "
E8S East Acceptable Clean and Borate
E1 N East Missing Replace
E2N East Serious Decay Replace
E3N East Some Decay-Original Retain, Clean and Borate
Log
E4N East " "
E5N East " Remove and Evaluate
E6-8N East Probable Original log Retain, Clean and Borate
�
The assessment tables recommend that logs be cleaned and a borate solution be applied. This is discussed in detail
later in the report (Appendix 2). An important concern of this assessment is whether the logs in the building are original
historic fabric. All original logs should be treated in such as way that they are conserved and re-incorporated into the
cabin so that it retains its historic significance. All original chinking should be similarly conserved.
Because the actual date of construction is not well secured, tree ring dates may be used to verify the actual dates. There
are logs that appear in Fig- � ----._.=T.=�_._�,�--_.: --- �- � ---- . �-.� �
�+�.. � _ ' „,,.-,- --,. ��--.��--'e�^w --�.=-----V� . .r �.,-I
ure 4 that wnuld be suitable �---- .. T�.� - _ � �
for tree ring analysis. If it is ^�T�+ —M'�� == ��"'� °"'"'-•�-=="'- �
possible to correlate these +"�'+"^�---�"�� ��--�--� ��-�..-=��-..�.:::.,=:,;_"�"'---�- - '
__..,.._ =--
logs with a local or regional
tree ring calendar every -
effort should be made to do -
so. a -� ��� � - -m.�-r:o. -
- ...:-:;^ �� - -
The assessment found that � �
�'� .""' �
virtually all the logs and � _ ' � � •� I +� �� �,
chinking were troubled with J _ �,�_ - -
powder post beetles. While - ^ -��"`"' '"�- '-
no frass was detected, �""r KL __ _ . . �-��
there were numerous bee- - - � �� r�_ _:-- -
es
tle holes in each piece. The _ � --�'}�� - "� � __ r�-y �
recommendations specify - � -,� -- - _ -
that all the log and chinking � - ��,-.--__� _ - �-
components should be Y ' �� �--'-- -::" "� .,.��Y-� ��'�`
thoroughly treated with ba ` "` �" r � .:�� � - - � - �`� " � � -
' '`�r.� ,�.j_ - � - , ..
rate solution. This over � .`�---�,,..,�� -- _ �
time will eliminate all beetle Figure 5. Ham House Cabin. The wall de
-,q�,,: scribed in Table 1
and borer problems. -
_ ,, ' a^. �...�._.�"]W
e
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=� ' - -...- � � -r�' � �
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. - �� �. F ,/� '- ' ?.� ''
_ ��� `� .. /� h :� ' � -
f
Figure 6 . Ham House Cabin. The wall de- �'� }�'� i Figure 7. Ham House Cabin. The wall de
scribed in Table 2(East-S Hal� � � scribed in Table 2(East N-Hal�
� .., �
�
Table 3 East Pen
Log Number Facade Condition Recommendation
N1 North Fragmented log; seri- Could cause collapse/failure. Re-
ous decay. place. Already in 2 halves
N2E North Acceptable Possibly a replacement years ago.
Clean and borate.
N2W North Acceptable Possibly a replacement years ago.
Clean and borate.
N3E, N3W North Acceptable Checked, clean and borate
N4E, N4W North Acceptable Checked, clean and borate
N5E, N5W North Acceptable Checked, clean and borate
N6E, N6W North Acceptable Checked, clean and borate
N7 North Acceptable Checked, clean and borate
N8 North Acceptable Checked, clean and borate
10
� yi
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� .♦ . `�. " �_ __ �y __��� _' :�.
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:-:� �u<.- � ' ;
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� .t - . . ��+r' �,.� 1'`��
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1��� �� � � ��_ •yr ' r'� •
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�{'��1� sr��+�'f���,,�(i��� g, e `�`� �'-3� _ �\
� ',hf�:i�` ����� 'p �.,. �''~•�,..\
I
' Figure8. HamHouseCabin Thewallde- ���`� _, �� �� r "-. � -
scribed in Table 3. North Fa�ade. ,�Y� .� �s, �� .�( .� , �-.
�.�w���..�r�'�.._ 'B � �. '.-� . .. .
11
Figure 10. Ham House Cabin. South half of
the west wall. East Pen
Figure 9. Ham House Cabin. North Half of �}' � 1',
the west wall. East Pen. -- ��
�
_' . "_.,:��...
a
_ �_ � _ F.
� . . . � ry _ _ �:i
�� �� .
tl s � a.,
-- � ' �� `�_ ��.
���,� � :;�� ` , � -- `
� �---
�
_ , _ :���.
A '� _ � �'w►+..� __ j�l.i
; ; � ��� =
_ . � a
,z
Table 4 East Pen
Log Number Fa�ade Condition Recommendation
W1 N, W1 S West Missing Replace
W2N, W2S West Acceptable Checked, clean and borate
W3 to W8 West Acceptable Checked, clean and borate
The western pen is similar to the eastern pen; the general description of the logs, chinking, and daubing is the same
(Figure 11). The condition of the various facades for this pen are shown in Tables 5-8.
The Plaque
On the southern wall of the eastern pen there is a plaque that commemorates the cabin's relocation and restoration. It is
known that the cabin was moved from its original location to the Park west of the present location and later to the current
site. The plaque commemorates the move to the Eagle Point park and its restoration there. Since then, the cabin was
moved to the current location. It has been placed on a stone foundation probably as part of that move. Some interpretive
material should be considered that discusses the new location of this cabin at the Ham House.
The Door and Windows
None of the windows or door appear to be original. The image of the original cabin (Figure 4) shows the position of the
13
.. ;����.�-.- _.,�- f..-+�---- .:.�"_"�`"` �-e'r�
" �1'�...rr'�r,./+"'�P''`.�-►^�"'1��,,,,r�.�.it���..r-r-�-�:s
��,�.--•---�������.�lt-r�"�''�..
�..�.+�.r,�.
.� ' s . ,.�.�:�.r""�,irr^�-^'rr'�' +''"r'„' *w""d
- � ,.�.����y�,
�J _
F; .� ��e1� _ _• . � • J - .
Y
��s �
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. � �'"�'. ' _
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- ' � y .
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v ` .4_
F_.. �
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�I
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. . . �'�I '�� - _��
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- 'w-'� �._�
-
. ,��_V . .. _ -.�_ _ �� -_
��,s ! �•.i_ 'IF � � �l n ' � e.
�•. �L'�R '.. 7i.. �,. � .�' ��' `�T ^� � �w_ _
i .5�l
J �J �f r 4.�V� � A�T� � }� R`1
. . ;, `T 1yy,v� � Tl� �K14`.�Lx'p 0 :.
� Figure 11. Ham House Cabin. South fa�ade .. „�; 'j� �1 � � P;�. �
West Pen.
14
Table 5 West Pen
Log Number Facade Condition Recommendation
This log was probably installed when
S1 South New log this cabin was moved to its current
location
S2W South Probably new Treat, clean and borate
S2E South Very decayed Treat, clean and borate. Possibly re-
place
S3 to S6 Decayed and Remove, evaluate, treat, clean and
South deteriorated re lace ori inal fabric.
East and west p g
S7 South Decayed and Remove, evaluate, treat, clean and
deteriorated replace original fabric.
S8 South Decayed and Remove, evaluate, treat, clean and
deteriorated replace original fabric.
15
windowopenings but notwindowsash. The present �'" -�'��k,�,y-„'r�i�'� `�`�"�� � �
windows are 6 over 6 lights where they exist. Further � �� - i:'
research is needed on what the original windows may �'� �� ��
have look like. If no data about these windows is forth- �. .� �
coming, the windows should be rebuilt and all windows
should be 6 over 6 lights. The doors in the breezeway
are simple plank doors with modern hinges. What sort
of doors were originally in this building should be in- -
vestigatedand used to create doors that match the his- ' q I �� i �Y..
toric description. �1 �, � M�a. , ;
Neither the doors nor the windows are protected with ; �� `
paint. If research does not provide any historic infor- . ��,�� � .�.�
mation on these openings, the existing windows and . . �
doors should be protected with a paint that is contem- . � ����s�;.
porary with the building. This would be a linseed oil v�. "� a�. ���'' �
based paint. �;:� ��`�` i���� �. �
«
The Site .��' '-�� i., �
'� 4;', �.a, :
„ ,•• :�. ,,� ' ,
The cabin is presently located on a hillside. In the re- ,�,
cent past the soil above the cabin had been allowed to " �„� � , � , A ,� -
move down the hillside and cover the rear wall. The �, �i."'� ;'�F � ���., � �
soil has been recently been pulled away from the � � �� -�fS.� c '.\ ���
cabin but the deterioration and damage had already ,. '" . .,. ,y,�_� ` i�� `" �� �� �t„�
been done (Figure 13). These lower logs probably can `y�,, ,� '��,t° ' � •� - `
not be salvaged. A stone retaining wall has been con- � "�� � �3� r R•� `��: `�_� - �" '�
r.�. ,�-fE:>'.. ''s'�� ' K z � � `"� � ����
structed to prevent further damage to the cabin (Figure ►P��t 4^'�,.-r ,,� ;e►1�,."4y . •,
14)� � Figurel2 HamHouseCabin Northfa � � -'' `\��
, �ade. West Pen. �' �,
�
i6
Table 6 West Pen
Log Number Fa�ade Condition Recommendations
N1 North Has failed, may col- Remove and probably replace.
lapse Epoxy repairs seem unlikely
N2 North Acceptable Clean and borate
N3-6 West North Acceptable Clean and borate
N3-6 East North Acceptable Clean and borate
N7 North Acceptable Clean and borate
N8 North Acceptable Clean and borate
17
Table 7 West Pen
Log Number Fa�ade Condition Recommendations
E1 East Missing Determine if replacement
is appropriate
E2-E8 N and S East Acceptable Clean and Borate
Table 8 West Pen
Log Number Fa�ade Condition Recommendations
N1-7 West Decayed Clean and borate
S1-7 West Decayed Clean and borate
Above the site there are many trees and shrubbery that should be pruned or removed to reduce the amount of shade the
cabin experiences. The moss on the roof is in part caused by the lack of sunlight. The trees and shrubbery also generate
leaves and debris that collect on the roof and against the cabin. This vegetative matter encourages decay by trapping
moisture.
The cabin itself has very short rafter overhangs and this allows rain and snow melt to drip off the roof, and splash back
on to the log walls of the cabin. This has created a drip line where the moisture lands before bouncing onto the cabin and
its foundation. At the drip line, sharp rocks between 2" and 4" should be placed to prevent moisture falling from the roof
18
` - - -L�- �
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- _�..� � �:�
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,y , _
It��. � �r • *�j•.� _ � -�l�_ �
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.
r ;��„�`� �✓ ±` .�tii ` �
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��n � >x`y'�r� 1V. rj .ii •LiF•l � ' � . i { _ J . : _
` �'��Y���4�� � # � ; _ �._` ,
, ,
�. � ,. .,;�
Figure 13 Ham House Cabin. First logs in~ �` �y „i� s
the rear of the cabin. Decay is evident Col � "� "� ' • '� � �+}5���> . .
lapse is possible. , 9r�"' ,. , -�`
1
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i _._ �:.:- �3; 1
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��1Jj �j{yy pT ` r
��' Y.M✓� _ ✓.!(/RsS..•.v � . . �la.. _
�9
��- � t' �, Figure 14. Ham House Cabin. Retaining wall
-. - 'Y� 'r � � � , .� behind the cabin.
�- �I ' � '�
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20
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-a: � � ' �.. k- ' .
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The drip line � �� ��';��,.� `1-�'�
. ,<`-Zi ,x .
Y�$y4,. ♦� .r�
�P \ .� ... -V`�.Li
�� � � � � . < ' � �
.:y �w+i �.�.. ���.. '� .
�
♦ '�', ..�, .:y
`���#�", � �>
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Figure 15. Ham House Cabin. Drip line in � �` �p. �"F �
front of the cabin. _ . � ,' � ,
�_..� , _ . . . _ .
21
from bouncing back onto the logs and transporting soil from the ground to the logs. Along the rear of the cabin, a French
drain should be constructed that carries away the water that falls off the roof as wells as flows off the hillside above the
cabin.
RECOMMENDATIONS
This cabin is an important structure. It should be given the same degree of care that the Ham House museum receives.
The importance of this building to the history of Dubuque can not be overemphasized. Yet, tthe building lacks on site in-
terpretive information and is hidden from view from the house museum ( Figure 16).
The Roof
The roof is in need of replacement. The shakes have failed and the roof decking may be deteriorated. At the present
time, a leak will drip into the attic but not immediately impact the cabin's interior. When a leak in the roof starts to effect
the interior, the repair will be of the roof and the ceiling of the pen where the leak has occurred. The repair becomes
more expensive if delayed. When the roof is replaced, consider using a cedar breather between a solid deck covered
with a water proof inembrane and the shakes or shingles. Also ensure that galvanized metal is interleafed between every
4th course of shakes and at the ridge.
The Wall Logs
The wall logs of this building are the most important aspect of its historic fabric. Nonetheless, a number of these logs are
too deteriorated to not be replaced. While it is difficult to count precisely, at least 10 logs need to be removed and new
logs installed. It best to use new logs and to hew them to the correct dimension. New logs can be tinted to appear similar
to the existing logs' color. The use of new logs will allow proper sizing of the replacements. A total of 89 other logs need
to be thoroughly cleaned and treated with a borate solution to preserve them.. A few logs may need to be epoxy infused
in addition to being treated with borate. Several of the existing logs have had caulk and daubing pushed into the naturally
occurring checks. This material has to be removed and discarded. It is best to allow logs to dry when they get wet. Caulk
and daubing in logs make that impossible. Borating a log will not alter its ability to dry out. It will prevent decay. Resist
the urge to buy reclaimed logs from wood merchants. While the logs are seasoned, they represent the destruction of an-
other historic building. The also are not properly sized or hewn.
zz
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� i�
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r. .� �
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�� �id
A � M f
...♦ � _ . i ..� �� d �-� ..�� I� II l��ll
k .:: 5
Figure 16. Ham House Cabin. View of the ,, � ,,,�..
cabin from the Ham House museum. �'+�'- ;`— -•
. . . � . . '-�'.G _^a..:. ".. . .,.
23
As more historic photos are uncovered it will be possible to better analyze this cabin. The image in Figure 4 may not be
of a dog trot cabin. The space between the two pens appears to have been plastered on the interior of the central en-
trance hall. A mop board may also be visible. The doorway is fully framed and appears more of an entrance to a hall way
with rooms on each side. There had been brick steps leading up to this doorway. The bricks from the steps are located in
the sidewalk and there is a shadow on the face of the door casing where the bricks would have touched the wood.
Figure 4 also shows certain logs that are no longer present. This includes the real sill logs in this structure. When this
cabin is restored, consideration should be given to replacing the now missing logs. This assessment examined the logs
that are present today. The logs that are missing should be included in any overall plan to fully restore this building.
The Chinking and Daubing
The space between the logs (the chink space) varies across both pens. Comparing the image in Figure 4 with the current
building it is possible to identify logs that appear to be original. It is less easy to identify the chinking that is in Figure 4.
The chinking that can be identified as original is as valuable to the building as are the logs. None of the daubing that is
seen in Figure 4 is present in the cabin today. The cabin appears to have been repeatedly have had checks in the logs
that should have been left opened filled with either daubing or latex caulk.
As part of the process of restoring this cabin, the daubing should be removed and the pieces of chinking (wooden splits
and poles) should be cleaned and borated. The methods that were used to install them should be duplicated. Daubing
should be applied carefully but not in the checks of any log. As the daubing is removed it may be possible to identify
chinking seen in Figure 4.
Further historic research and photo examination is needed to solve the riddles associated with this cabin.
The Door and Windows
The image in Figure 4 suggests that this cabin may not originally have been a dog trot style cabin. The main door into
the cabin appears to open on to a plastered hallway. There is a possible mop board along the floor in this hallway. The
cabin is several inches higher than the sidewalk and stairs may have been present that lead up to an entrance door.
These stairs may have been brick; a pile of bricks sites in front of the cabin in the sidewalk. There is a shadow on the
door casing where steps would have laid against the casing.
za
There are bricks still in the photo against the cabin's foundation as if there had been a somewhat larger top step. There
is no hinging or door present in this image. But not all of the doorway is visible.
The image (Figure 4) shows three window openings. Close inspection with a magnifying lens, of the image suggests that
there could have been double hung windows in them at one point. Whether those windows dated to the initial construc-
tion of the cabin is not known. Further photographic research is merited.
None of these surfaces appear to have been painted. The sepia toned image may not be the best photograph from
which to make judgments. If other images are found or there is a written history about the prior moves, these should in-
form any future restoration
The site
The cabin is located on a side hill. Recently a retaining wall (Figure 14) was built that pulled the hill's soil off the rear wall
of the cabin. This wall appears to have been constructed after deterioration to the lowest logs on this wall had already
happened (Figure 13). This wall should be monitored. The pressure from the hillside is significant and if the retaining wall
was not properly buttressed it could catastrophically fail.
The cabin has no water control mechanisms or water collection systems. A French drain has been proposed for the rear
of the cabin and a similar system would be beneficial on the front of the cabin.
While there is no vegetation growing against the cabin, there is ample vegetation above it which drops all manner of de-
bris on the roof. Vegetation is also trapped behind the cabin between the cabin and the retaining wall. The trees and
shrubbery behind the cabin should be removed and the debris that collects behind the cabin should be raked away every
week. The cabin should not be in shade. Overhanging trees should be removed.
The Chimneys
Part of the chronology of the cabin revolves around when the chimneys were constructed. Figure 4 does not show any
chimneys. Subsequent images show chimneys and variation to the chimneys. The present chimneys are all stone and
they are the source of a large amount of decay that impacts each log that sits behind them on two walls. The image in
Figure 4 would suggest that the chimney on the west end of the cabin is a complete fabrication. There is no chimney in
zs
this end of the cabin in Figure 4.
CONCLUSIONS
Over the years, this building has been important to the history of Dubuque. It has been moved and modified in a manner
that while saving the building, has altered several important aspects of the building. This assessment has pointed out a
few of these changes and suggested that there is a more complete story that needs to be told. Further photographic re-
search should be undertaken. Decisions regarding the future of the building have yet to be made.
26
Sketch of the Cabin
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Appendix 1
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APPENDIX 2 TREATMENTS
Clean and Bo�ate: All logs check as they dry out. Logs, starting as trees hay have up to 100% of their weight in mois-
ture. As the tree dries, checks develop along the radial lines that once were alive in the tree and by which nutrients
passed from sapwnod to the interior of the tree. When these checks open to the surface they are the log's effort to stabi-
- - , � � lize moisture release. Logs will check as they continue to dry
-��,����out. These checks often penetrate to the interior of the log.
��
. � . ,They can harbor dirt, vegetative debris, insed bodies, and
�� �
other wind blown material. This material when wet, acts as a
sponge and the log has a hard time fully drying out. To pre-
'� � �� � � - serve the log, these checks should be cleaned out and
. ` � � flooded with an appropriate solution. Borate salts in solution
are a fungicide, mildecide, and insecticide. In higher concen-
� trations (15%) it can be toxic to carpenter ants. Generally it is
��\� � �L , _ not toxic to mammals or vegetation. But it will prevent a log
� . --�
�:` ' `� . - from decaying.
� �
Checks should be cleaned with long thin objects (awl; chain
� �� < '��.����� .i sawfile; rat tail file; reciprocating saw blade; etc) to eliminate
���-"- � '-��-'" the sponge effect. Then more thoroughly blown out with com-
_ pressed air. Following that, borate solution should be poured
;,f� into the check until the solution is refused by the log. This
� — process should be repeated until the log can not take in more
- borate. The borates remain for several years but can be re-
peated every 5 years, or so. Checks should never be filled
with any caulk product. They all eventually dry out and serve to trap moisture in the check and foster decay.
ze
May include: new decking or new plywood.
May include new rafters in the roof. Includes
ice and water dam; cedar breather; #1 blue
Roof label 20" shakes laid 4" to the weather; $11,565
interleafed flashing; dumpster for debris. Roof
is 455 ' sq. Price includes removal and
installation
Replacement logs Includes 15 logs, hewn on site. Also the $5625
removal and installation of new logs.
Removal and replacement of 4 double hung
Windows windows; trim and casings. Reglazing as $3200
needed
Cleaning and borating inside and outside, 64
logs. Cleaning involves scrapping all checks,
Cleaning and borating blowing out all checks with compressed air $3405
and flooding the checks with the appropriate
borate solution
Remove and replace all daubing. Replace
Daubing $9420
chinking on the interior if needed
Borate and flashing Sill logs Install Impel rods; flash below sills between $600
the foundation and sill logs
Scaffolding Rental $3000
4x4 Fork Lift 3 days $750
Toilet rental $1000
Workers comp-lowa $2000
Lodging, 7 people for 12 nights@$150 ea $7200
Per Diem, 7 people@ 12 days @$60/day $5040
Mileage $1500
Overhead (CPA; state income tax; contractor's $10100
amendment; office expenses) 15%
Contingencies 10% $6725
Profit 5% $3363
Total $74, 493
Dubuque Planning Services Department
THE CITY �F � City Hall-50 West 13�Street
���"�"_� Dubuque,IA 52001-4845
�� � �� �� (563)589-4210 phone
�� 563 589-4221 fax
� )
�Vlasterpieee on the Mississippi �.2o17 (563)690-6678 TDD
planning@cityofdubuque^or�
April 10, 2018
Kurt Strand, Executive Director
Dubuque County Historical Society
350 E. 3rd Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
SUBJECT: Letter of Support for HRDP Grant Application for Mathias Ham House
Dear Mr. Strand,
I am pleased to provide this letter of support on behalf of the City of Dubuque in support of the
Dubuque County Historical Society's application for a Historic Resource Development Program
(HRDP) Grant for a Conditions Assessment Report of the Mathias Ham House, which is listed in
the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a City Landmark Site.
In our long collaboration with the Dubuque County Historical Society, stewarding the historic
architecture as well as the historic site, we've recognized the power of working partnerships and
the fundamental significance of the historic site on our cultural heritage. The City's Historic
Preservation Commission has the responsibility to promote the protection, enhancement, and
perpetuation of such landmarks through outreach, education, and design review. A Conditions
Assessment Report of this historic landmark is crucial for the continued opportunity to promote
and conduct educational and interpretive programs on this key historic site.
The Dubuque County Historical Society's dedication to preserving and interpreting the site's
history offers enriching and engaging experiences to visitors and residents, furthering the social
and cultural vibrancy of our community. The City of Dubuque supports your initiative to seek
funding toward a Conditions Assessment Report of the Mathias Ham House. We look forward to
the collaborative process of enhancing and preserving this historic landmark.
Sincerely,
L l.L'�,L.� ��1, � �%L'i�
Laura Carstens
Planning Services Manager
cc: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
Marie Ware, Leisure Services Manager
Service People Integrity Responsibility Innovation Teamwork