Arterial 561 Couler Valley Part 1 - Draft Environmental Impact Statement appendix-cultural resorces assessment January 1979ARTERIAL 561
COOLER VALLEY
DUBUQUE, IOWA
PART 1
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT STATEMENT
APPENDIX - CULTURAL
RESOURCES ASSESSMENT
Prepared By:
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PLANNING AND RESEARCH DIVISION
OFFICE OF PROJECT PLANNING
JANUA"Y, 1979
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ARTERIAL 561
COULER VALLEY
DUBUQUE, IOWA
R 388.12 ART Iowa Books
Iowa. Dept. of Transportation. Office of Project Plannin
Arterial 551, Couler Valley, Dubuque, Iowa: draft environmental
impact statement appendix —cultural resources assessment /
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prepared by Iowa Department of Transportation, Planning and
Research Division, Office of Project Planning. ro
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DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT STATEMENT
APPENDIX - CULTURAL
RESOURCES ASSESSMENT
DUBUQUE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Prepared By:
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PLANNING AND RESEARCH DIVISION
OFFICE OF PROJECT PLANNING
JANUARY, 1979
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
SCOPE OF STUDY
METHODOLOGY
Historical
Architectural
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
REPORT ORGANIZATION
SURVEY TRACT NO. 1
1.1
1.2
1.3
GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
Summary of Finding
Sites lnventory
DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
SURVEY TRACT NO. 2
2.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
2.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
Summary of Findings
Sites Inventory
2.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
SURVEY TRACT NO. 3
3.1
GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
3.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
Summary of Findings
Sites Inventory
3.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
Page
11
1-1
1-1
1-5
1-5
1-6
1-23
1-23
1-23
2-1
2-1
2-1
2-6
2-6
2-7
2-32
2-32
2-32
3-1
3-1
3-1
3-5
3-5
3-6
3-51
3-51
3-51
80C2056
SURVEY TRACT NO. 4
4.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
4.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
Summary of Findings
Sites Inventory
4.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
SURVEY TRACT NO. 5
5.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
5.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
Summary of Findings
Sites lnventory
5.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
SURVEY TRACT NO. 6
6.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
6.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
Summary of Findings
Sites Inventory
6.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
SURVEY TRACT NO. 7
7.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
7.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
Summary of Findings
Sites Inventory
7.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
ii
Page
4-1
4-1
4-2
4-8
4-8
4-9
4-87
4-87
4-87
5-1
5-1
5-1
5-6
5-6
5-7
5-43
5-43
5-43
6-1
6-1
6-1
6-7
6-7
6-8
6-68
6-68
6-68
7-1
7-1
7-1
7-6
7-6
7-7
7-68
7-68
7-69
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SURVEY TRACT NO. 8
8.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
8.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
Summary of Findings
Sites Inventory
8.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
SURVEY TRACT NO. 9
9.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
9.2 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
SURVEY TRACT NO. 10
10.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
10.2 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
SURVEY TRACT NO. 11
11.2
GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
SURVEY TRACT NO. 12
12.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Tract Description
Tract History
12.2 DISTRICT EVALUATION
History
Architecture
i i i
Page
8-1
8-1
8-1
8-9
8-9
8-10
8-73
8-73
8-74
9-1
9-1
9-2
9-6
9-6
9-6
10-1
10-1
10-2
10-6
10-6
10-6
12-1
12-1
12-1
12-2
12-2
12-2
Figure
Number
1.1
1.1
1.2
2.1
2.2
2.3
3.1
3.2
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
5.1
LIST OF FIGURES
Cultural Resources Study
Survey Tract Map
Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 1 - Aerial View
Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 1
Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 2 - Aerial View
Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 2
Sanborn Insurance Map of
Dubuque, Iowa (1891)
Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 3 - Aerial View
Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 3
Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 4 - Aerial View
Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 4
Sanborn Insurance Map of
Dubuque, Iowa (1891)
1871 View of Dubuque
Looking North Along
Bluff Street from Dodge
Street
Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 5 - Aerial View
iv
Page
1-3
2-3
2-4
2-5
3-3
3-4
4-3
4-4
4-6
4-7
5-3
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5.2 Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 5
6.1 Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 6 - Aerial View
6.2 Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 6
7.1 Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 7 - Aerial View
7.2 Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 7
8.1 Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 8 - Aerial View
8.2 Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 8
8.3 Harbor of Dubuque (1844)
8.4 Plan of the Sewage System
of the City of Dubuque (1876)
8.5 Sanborn Insurance Map of
Dubuque, Iowa (1884)
9.1 Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 9 - Aerial View
9.2 Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 9
10.1 Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 10 - Aerial View
10.2 Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 10
11.1 Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 11 - Aerial View
11.2 Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 11
v
Page
5-4
6-3
6-4
7-3
7-4
8-3
8-4
8-5
8-6
8-7
9-3
9-4
10-3
10-4
11-3
11-4
12.1 Historical/Architectural Survey
Tract No. 12 - Aerial View
12.2 Historical/Architectural Survey
Site Location in Tract No. 12
Dubuque in 1872
vi
Page
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12-4
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INTRODUCTION
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
In accordance with Section 800.4 of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation
"Procedures for the Protection of Historic and Cultural Properties" a survey has been
undertaken in order to identify historically and architecturally significant buildings,
structures, objects, sites and districts which may be impacted by the construction of
Freeway 561 and the Couler Valley Expressway in the City of Dubuque, Iowa. The findings
of this survey provide a basis for the objective evaluation of the relative impacts which
various project alternatives will have upon the city's cultural resources and fabric. In
addition, this survey has been supplemented by historical and architectural background
studies which together with the corridor survey will provide guidance in determining the
appropriate means for mitigating conflicts between the proposed projects and significant
elements of Dubuque's cultural environment.
SCOPE OF STUDY
The survey corridor generally covers an area from 500 to 1000 feet wide extending from
near the intersection of U.S. Highway 151-61 and Grandview Avenue in the south to near
the junction of U.S. Highway 52 and Iowa Highway 386 South in the north. This corridor
has been divided into twelve survey tracts with tract boundaries corresponding to historic
district and city subdivision boundary lines (see Figure 1.1). For those survey tracts
corresponding to the Freeway 561 corridor, Survey Tracts 1 thru 8, each property has been
evaluated on a site specific basis with respect to both its individual historic and architectural
significance, and with respect to its significance within group and district contexts. Survey
Tracts 9 thru 12, which comprise the Couler Valley Expressway corridor, on the other hand,
have been treated in only a general manner because this portion of the proposed highway
improvement program is currently only in the concept stage of development. Further study
of the Couler Valley Expressway corridor will be undertaken once the project is scheduled
in the Five -Year Development Program.
Not covered by this cultural resources survey is that portion of the Freeway 561 corridor
bounded by Cedar Street on the west, Sixteenth Street on the north, and Kerper Boulevard
on the east and south. This area has not been subjected to a thorough cultural resources
survey because a preliminary study of the area revealed no buildings, structures or other
man-made features of sufficient age or design quality to merit further study. For the most
part this area consists of unbuilt upon fill land and a flood retention pond. The major
development in the area is a junk yard associated with the A. Y. McDonald Manufacturing
Company. The few buildings located in the area are of concrete block and sheet metal
construction and appear to be less than twenty years in age.
METHODOLOGY
HISTORICAL
For resources sites located within Survey Tract Nos. 1 thru 8 the following historical
information has been compiled:
(1) the dates of construction and/or alteration for buildings, structures and objects,
and the dates of development and/or improvement for sites, such as the Dubuque
Ice Harbor;
(2) lists of owners and occupants for extant buildings;
information regarding non -extant buildings and structures which previously
occupied surveyed resource sites; and
(4) information which identifies the historical usage of each surveyed resource site.
It has been necessary to consult a number of reference sources in order to compile the above
specified information. A partial list of the sources which have been consulted include: city
assessment records, title transfer and deed records, property abstracts, Sanborn insurance
maps, city directories and newspapers.
For all survey tracts historical information pertaining to neighborhoods, subdivisions and
districts have been compiled employing most of the same data sources cited above, as well as
plat maps, published and unpublished histories and memoirs, and interviews with area
residents. In compiling the general tract histories particular attention has been paid to
gathering the following categories of information:
(3)
dates of platting, initial construction and redevelopment;
for residential areas, class and ethnic associations and concentrations;
for commercial and industrial areas, concentrations of specific types of
commercial and industrial enterprises; and
(4) events and trends which strongly influenced the development of an area.
Thus, the historical survey has been carried out on both a "micro" and "macro" level for
the proposed Freeway 561 corridor in order to provide a basis for evaluating the significance
of resource sites both as individual entities and within district contexts. On the other hand,
survey tracts corresponding to the Couler Valley Expressway corridor have been treated
only within a district context as this project has not yet been developed to a stage which
would permit a site specific survey of the area.
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CULTURAL RESOURCES STD SURVEY TRACT MAP
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ARCHITECTURAL
The architectural survey has been confined to the evaluation of building exteriors,
building -setting relationships and streetscapes. Each building within the eight Freeway 561
survey tracts has been photographed and evaluated on -site. In making on -site evaluations the
following architectural features have been noted:
(1) the massing of the buildings;
(2) the use of materials;
(3) facade organization and fenestration;
(4) the scale of buildings and their relationship to their sites, as well as to surrounding
buildings; and
(5) architectural detailing and ornamentation.
On the tract level attention has been concentrated on noting groups of vernacular building
types, the presence of stone curbing, brick streets and walks, distinctive street furniture,
landscaping and other area -wide design features. The scale of building groups and
neighborhoods, as well as setbacks and lot size have also been noted. Period groupings and
groupings of buildings evidencing similar use of materials were additional tract architectural
features which were recorded during the tract -wide phase of the architectural survey. This
phase of the architectural survey applied to all twelve survey tracts and was conducted both
on foot and by automobile. Furthermore, in some instances it extended beyond tract
boundaries into adjacent neighborhoods which exhibited architectural qualities similar to
those of the survey tracts.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
The National Register program, which is administered by the Heritage Conservation and
Recreation Service of the United States Department of the Interior, has established criteria
for evaluating the significance of cultural resources. Under these criteria properties are
determined eligible for the National Register of Historic P/aces if they possess integrity of
location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association, and:
(1) are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad
patterns of our history; or
(2) are associated with persons significant in our past; or
(3)
embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of
construction, or represent the work of a master, or possess high artistic values, or
1-4
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represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack
individual distinction; or
(4) have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or
history.
The significance rating system employed throughout this study is based substantially on
these National Register criteria. For Survey Tract Nos. 1 thru 8 each resource site has been
rated numerically for both its historical and architectural significance. The evaluation of a
resource site's historical significance has been made on the basis of the following three
criteria:
(H1) association with a historically significant person, group or enterprise;
(H2) association with a historically significant event, trend or era; and
(H3) historical integrity.
The architectural significance of each resource site has similarly been evaluated on the basis
of the three criteria listed below:
(Al) architectural design quality and aesthetics;
(A2) historic architectural value; and
(A3) architectural integrity.
Under each of the above criteria resource sites have been assigned a rating of from 0 (low) to
5 (high) points. In rating both historical and architectural integrity point assignments have
been based both on the extent to which each resource site has maintained those qualities for
which is was rated significant under the other historical and architectural criteria, and on the
extent to which each resource site has been judged to constitute an integral or supporting
part of a historical or architectural district.
Individual point totals for historical and architectural significance have been employed to
determine the likelihood of each resource site's eligibility for the National Register of
Historic Places. Those resource sites which have received either a historical or an
architectural rating of 13 points or more have been judged to qualify for the National
Register.
Finally, the point ratings for all six historical and architectural evaluation criteria have been
totalled for each resource site as a means of providing a comparative basis for determining
the relative cultural importance of all the surveyed sites. lnturn these rating totals have been
used to divide all of the resource sites into four separate preservation priority groups, which
will provide the basis for evaluating the relative impacts that various proposed project
1-5
alternatives will have upon the cultural environment of the City of Dubuque. Explanation of
the four preservation priority groups (PPGs) is provided below:
Group 1. Properties qualifying for this group have generally been rated as
being both historically and architecturally significant. Group 1
properties should definitely be preserved. Rating equals 25 points or
above.
Group 2. Properties qualifying for this group have generally been rated as
either historically or architecturally significant, but not both. Group
2 properties should be preserved whenever feasible. Rating equals
from 19 to 24 points.
Group 3. Properties qualifying for this group have generally been rated as
being of only secondary historical and/or architectural significance in
their own right, but may be viewed as important in the context of a
group or district. If properties qualifying for Group 3 are in good
physical condition, they should be preserved whenever it is practical
to do so. Rating equals from 13 to 18 points.
Group 4. Properties which have obtained a rating of 12 points or Tess qualify
for Group 4 and merit no special preservation consideration.
The above described numerical rating system applies only to individual resource sites.
Districts because of their lesser number and greater complexity have been evaluated in a
qualitative manner. Such district evaluations are located at the end of each survey tract
chapter. Each district has been evaluated from both a historical and architectural
perspective. However, the criteria employed in making the district evaluations are much Tess
rigid than those used for the individual resource site evaluations. The reason for this has
been that the various districts have not readily lent themselves to the same types of analysis
in all cases. Specifically, residential, commercial and industrial districts do not lend
themselves well to cross comparison. Consequently, the significance of districts located
within the Freeway 561 and Couler Valley Expressway corridors have been made on the
basis of professional judgement of the survey staff employing functionally similar sections
of the City of Dubuque, located outside of the project corridors, as bases for comparison.
REPORT ORGANIZATION
The Corridor Survey Report consists of twelve chapters, one corresponding to each of the
twelve survey tracts. Chapters 1 thru 8 have been divided into three sections each. Section
One in each of these chapters contains both a tract description and a tract history. Section
Two is the inventory of the individual resource sites. A summary of findings for the survey
tract is located at the beginning of each of these sections. Also, in this section a survey sheet
for each resource site may be found which contains the following information:
1-6
(1) Resource Site No.
(2) Designation --in the case of commercial and industrial buildings the business name;
if an owner occupied single-family residence, the name of the owner of record; for
other types of buildings, and sites which are not buildings, simple descriptive
references, such as double house, garage, etc.
(3) Legal Description of the Property
(4) Photograph
(5) Resource Site History
(6) Architectural Description
(7) Significance Rating
(8) List of Reference Sources
Section Three contains the district evaluation for the survey tract.
Chapters 9 thru 12 consist of only two sections each. For these chapters the first section
again consists of the tract description and the tract history. Section Two for these chapters
is the district evaluation. These chapters do not contain any resource site inventories
because planning for the Couler Valley Expressway has not yet progressed far enough to
warrant a detailed corridor survey.
1-7
h.
SURVEY TRACT
SOUTHERN AVENUE & KERRIGAN ROAD
101
1101
101
1.1
1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
TRACT DESCRIPTION
Survey Tract No. 1 encompasses the area generally bounded by Southern Avenue on the
northwest; a line perpendicular to Southern Avenue and U.S. 151-61 (Kerrigan Road), just
to the southwest of 358 Southern Avenue, on the southwest; a line parallel to and 250 feet
southeast of Kerrigan Road on the southeast; and a straight line extension of South Locust
Street on the northeast. The area included in this tract is shown in Figure 1.1. These
boundaries have been selected so as to include the maximum impact zone for the proposed
project in this area.
The only buildings located within Survey Tract No. 1 are situated along the southeast side
of Southern Avenue. Of the fifteen buildings included in the tract six are dwellings and the
others are one- and two-story concrete block and metal commercial and Tight industrial
buildings. All of the industrial and commercial buildings have been built during the past
thirty years. The dates of construction for the six dwellings range from 1855 to 1933. One
of these houses, the Kelly-Murillo House (RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.5) is listed on the
National Register of Historic Places.
On the northwest side of Southern Avenue, not included in the survey tract, are mostly
houses of the same vintage and architectural character as the houses within the survey tract.
The age of the houses gets progressively older the further one gets from the intersection of
Southern Avenue and South Locust Street. Located at the corner of Southern Avenue and
Valley Street is the Dubuque National Guard Armory.
Southeast of Kerrigan Road the boundary of the survey tract is defined by the 100-foot
high Mississippi River bluffs on top of which is located Louis Murphy Park. To the
northwest another high bluff line forms the second natural boundary for the area. Southern
Avenue follows a natural hollow which separates the two bluff lines.
The topography of the area included in Survey Tract No. 1 and the locations of the fifteen
buildings surveyed are shown in Figure 1.2. These buildings have each been evaluated with
respect to their individual historical and architectural significance. The Southern Avenue
hollow has been evaluated within a district context as well.
TRACT HISTORY
Throughout its history Southern Avenue has been known variously as Dillon's Furrow, the
Military Road, Dirty Hollow and the Cascade Road. Until 1957, when Kerrigan Road was
completed, Southern Avenue served as the main highway leading out of Dubuque to the
south. The land which comprises the survey tract was originally laid out and sold as mineral
lots in 1847.
1-1
lit
An early map of Dubuque shows that a smelting furnace was located just to the southwest
of the intersection of Southern Avenue and South Locust Street. This was O'Ferrall's
Furnace. Sometime before 1857 the furnace was demolished and replaced by a sawmill,
which was first known as the Gibbs Brothers mill, and after 1861, as J.S. Randall's mill. The
mill continued in operation until about 1890.
About 1870 the mineral Tots along Southern Avenue began to be subdivided and sold as
residential Tots. Before this date houses constructed in the hollow were occupied mainly by
miners. After 1870 those who built and occupied houses along Southern Avenue worked as
laborers for the several major businesses located in the southern part of the city, such as J.
S. Randall's mill, the Dubuque Lumber Company, the Illinois Central Railroad and Wm.
Ryan and Son's packing house.
In 1880, 45 of the 84 individuals who were listed in the city directory as living on Southern
Avenue, and having an occupation, were designated simply as laborers. Only 15 of those
listed were skilled craftsmen, while four were grocers. The only individual of economic
consequence living in the area in 1880 was Newell S. Moore, secretary of the Dubuque
Lumber Company. Ethnically, Survey Tract No. 1 was heavily populated by the Irish during
the 19th-century. The transformation of the eastern end of Southern Avenue from
residential to commercial and industrial usage began in the late 1940's. It can be expected
this trend will continue.
Sources: C. C. Childs, The History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical
Company, 1880)
Peter Hoffman, Concise History of the City and County of Dubuque from 1833
to 1934 (unpublished, Loras College Library, Dubuque, Iowa)
Dubuque Folklore, (Dubuque: American Trust and Savings Bank, 1975)
City Directories (1857, 1880)
1-2
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1-4
1.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
Fifteen individual resource sites are located in Survey Tract No. 1. Six of these buildings are
single-family residences, while the remainder house commercial and Tight industrial
businesses. Only one of these resource sites merits any special consideration. This particular
property is the Kelly-Muillo House (RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.5), which has recently been
added to the National Register of Historic Places. The address of this house is 274 Southern
Avenue. The present owner of this property has recently begun to repair and renovate the
house. However, because of the transitional character of the neighborhood continued
preservation of the house on its present site would appear dubious.
IMMOKAlew
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.1
Kenneth A. Peer House (358 Southern Avenue)
Sub'n 1-5 O'Connors Sub'n, E. 35' Lot 1
HISTORY
This house is located on Mineral Lot 37 which was subdivided for residential lots by M.
O'Connor in 1868. The estimated date of construction for this house is 1870. At that time
the property's owner was Ann Morris. In 1879 the property was sold to Thomas Murray, a
e house in
laborer. Charles P. Dillon was
of the owdent of ners andhoccupants o890h,is1 houseared are of any lo21 calng
to city directories. None
historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
The dimensions of this two-story frame dwelling are 16 feet wide by 54 feet deep. The
foundation of the house is stone. Three turned columns support the front porch canopy.
Wide frame architraves with hood moldings surround all windows and doors. This house is
of similar scale and fabric as other residential buildings in the area, but individually it is
und istinguished.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 6
Combined Rating - 11 (Group 4)
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Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-18
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directories (1881, 1889-1890, 1921-1922)
1-7
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.2
Charles P. Chapman House (354 Southern Avenue)
Sub'n 1-1-4 O'Connors Sub'n 1 and Sub'n 2-4 O'Connors Sub'n 1
HISTORY
M. O'Connor subdivided Mineral Lot 37 in 1868 and sold Lots 3 and 4 to William Rooney
that year. The house at 354 Southern Avenue was built by James Rooney for 1000 dollars
in 1876. James Rooney continued to own this house until 1892 when he sold the property
to Morris Scolland. In 1921 George Bardon, who worked for Carr, Ryder and Adams, lived
at this address. None of the known occupants of this house are of any historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
This dewelling consists of a two-story, 20-foot wide by 26-foot deep main wing with a
one-story, 16-foot wide by 12-foot deep `L' attached to the south side. The house is frame
with stone foundation. The windows of the two-story portion of this house are unusually
small. This house is of similar scale and fabric as other houses in the vicinity, but it is
individually undistinguished.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 6
Combined Rating = 11 (Group 4)
1-8
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-17;
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Dubuque Daily Times (December 2, 1876)
City Directories (1881, 1921-1922)
1-9
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.3
David L. Lyons House (314 Southern Avenue)
Sub'n 1-1-3 O'Connors Sub'n, Lot 1
HISTORY
William Rooney purchased Lots 3 and 4 of O'Connors Subdivision of Mineral Lot 37 in
1868 and built the main part of this house on Lot 3 in 1870. Wm. Rooney was a watchman
for the Illinois Central Railroad. Another Illinois Central employee was listed as the
occupant of the house in 1921. None of the known occupants of this house are of any
historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This two-story, three bay stone and frame dwelling has been extensively alterred. The stone
first level, though, is of some architectural interest. This house marks the east boundary of
the residential portion of Southern Avenue.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=2) = 3
Combined Rating = 7 .(Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-16
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Dubuque Daily Times (December 20, 1871)
City Directories (1881, 1921-1922)
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.4
Lloyd Lubbers and Son Auto Service (290 Southern Avenue)
Sub'n 1-1 and Sub'n 1-2 of O'Connors Sub'n 1
HISTORY
This building was constructed in 1948 and is of no historical importance. Previously, the
area was first platted as mineral lots and later developed residentially.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of concrete block construction and is out of character with the residential
buildings to the west, north and immediate east.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) +(H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) +(A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-15
1-10
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.5
Kelly - Murillo House (274 Southern Avenue)
Sub'n 1-2-4 of Mineral Lot 37, Lot 1
HISTORY
This National Register property was built about 1855 by Henry Kelly. In 1880, John H.
Kelly, a laborer, was listed as the occupant of this dwelling, and in 1921, Michael Kelly
resided at 274 Southern Avenue. None of these occupants of the house are of any historical
importance.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is a good example of Steamboat Gothic architecture. This style is characterized
by the two-story open gallery across the front of the house and the vertical board and
batten siding on the second story. The first level is stone. Several similar houses of lesser
quality are located further west on Southern Avenue as well as on West Third and Kirkwood
Streets. The area immediately surrounding this house is rapidly being converted to
commercial and light industrial uses.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=4) + (H3=4) = 8
Architectural: (A1=5) + (A2=5) + (A3=4) = 14
Combined Rating = 22 (Group 2)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-14
Lawrence J. Sommer, The Heritage of Dubuque: An Architectural View (East
Dubuque: Tel Graphics, 1975)
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.6
Sid's Beverage Store (260 Southern Avenue)
Sub'n 4 of Mineral Lot 37, Lot 1 and Sub'n 1-1-2-3 of Mineral Lot 37, Lot 1
HISTORY
This building was constructed in 1953 and is of no historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of metal construction.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) =0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-13
1-13
1-12
■
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.7
Miller's Trucking and Rental (200 Southern Avenue)
Sub'n 2-1-41 of Mineral Lot 39, Lot 1; Macinery Place, Lot 1; Sub'n 2 of
Mineral Lot 37, Lot 2 and Sub'n 2-1 of Mineral
Lot 37, Lot 2
HISTORY
This Building was constructed in 1959 and is of no historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of metal construction.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-11
1-14
w
w
w
111
1111
HISTORY
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.8
Wonder Bread Thrift Store (190 Southern Avenue)
Sub'n 1-41 of Mineral Lot 39, Lot 1 and Macinery Place, Lot 2
This building was constructed in 1955 and is of no historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is constructed of concrete block.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-10
1-15
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.9
Jerry's Body Shop (150 Southern Avenue)
no legal description
HISTORY
It is not known exactly when this building was constructed but it probably dates from the
1950's. This building is of no historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This building appears to be constructed of stone, which may be a veneer over concrete
block.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
1-16
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.10
Otto Krueger's Body Shop (112 Southern Avenue)
Randall's Sub'n 2, S. 48' of Lot 9 and Lot 10
HISTORY
This building was constructed in 1959 and is of no historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is constructed of concrete block with a brick veneer across the front.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-6
1-17
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.11
M. E. Donahue House (106 Southern Avenue)
Randall's Sub'n 2, S. 25' Lot 6 and 7
HISTORY
This house was built in 1936. In that year the property was sold by Ora Hardy to John M.
Thompson. In 1944 the house was purchased by Catherine Donahue and it has remained in
the Donahue family to the present time. Before the platting of Randall's subdivision for
residential purposes the J. S. Randall sawmill had been located on this land.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is a one-story frame bungalow. The dimensions of the house are 22 feet wide by
28 feet deep. This house is of standard design except for the stone foundation.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A3=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-4
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company) Insurance Maps of Dubuque,
Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company, 1891)
1-18
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.12
House (98 Southern Avenue)
Randall's Sub'n 2, S. 40' Lot 4, Lot 5 and N. 25' Lot 6
HISTORY
This house was built about 1920 on land owned by John Donahue. Previously this site was
occupied by the J. S. Randall sawmill. The existing house is of no historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
This two-story frame dwelling is of a style commonly built during the first three decades of
the twentieth century. Architectural plan books of the period contain several illustrations of
similar house designs and many examples of this type dwelling were built throughout Iowa
and other midwestern states.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 2
Combined Rating = 2 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-3
City Directory (1921-1922)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
1�-19
8002056
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.13
Brookside Dairy (bet. 98 and 80 Southern Avenue)
Randall's Sub'n 2, Lot 3
BRNOME
DAIRY
HISTORY
This building was constructed in 1967 and is of no historical significance. Previously this site
had been occupied by the J. S. Randall sawmill.
ARCHITECTURE
This one-story building is constructed of metal and concrete block. It is typical of other new
industrial buildings in the area, which is currently being transformed from a residential to a
commercial and light industrial area.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-2-272
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
1-20
i■i
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.14
Runde's Custom Upholstery (80 South Avenue)
Randall's Sub'n 2, Lot 2 and Sub'n of Randall's Sub'n 2, pt. Lot 1
HISTORY
This building was constructed in 1949. Previously, the site had been occupied by J. S.
Randall's sawmill. The existing building is of no historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This two-story building is constructed of concrete block with a common brick front.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-2
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
1-21
RESOURCE SITE NO. 1.15
House (70 Southern Avenue)
Sub'n 1 of Randall's Sub'n 2, Lot 1 and Sub'n 2-1 of Randall's Sub'n 2, Lot A
HISTORY
This house was built in 1933 on land previously occupied by the J. S. Randall sawmill.
ARCHITECTURE
This one -and -one-half story bungalow has a concrete block foundation and perma-stone wall
covering.
SIGN►FICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-32-3-1
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
1-22
1.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
HISTORY
The early settlers in Dubuque knew Southern Avenue as Dirty Hollow. The old military
road from Dubuque to Iowa City followed this hollow and it remained the route of the
southern highway out of Dubuque until completion of Kerrigan Road in the mid-1950's.
The first individuals to settle in the hollow were lead miners, and a lead smelter was erected
at the north end of the hollow. About 1850 lead mining ceased in the area and a sawmill
was erected on the site of the lead smelter. Beginning in 1870 the mineral lots into which
the hollow was initially divided were redivided into residential lots. With few exceptions
most of the houses which are located along Southern Avenue presently were built after
1870.
Within the limits of the survey tract, an extensive amount of redevelopment has occurred.
Especially in the northeastern portion of the hollow, nineteenth century dwellings have
been replaced by concrete block and metal commercial and industrial buildings. Most of this
redevelopment has occurred since 1950.
Consequently, very little of the historic fabric of the survey tract remains intact. Even the
integrity of the topography has been compromised due to the construction of Kerrigan
Road and new residential development northwest of Southern Avenue, which has required
the cutting and filling of large areas of the bluffs.
ARCHITECTURE
The extensive redevelopment which has occurred within Survey Tract No. 1 during the past
thirty years precludes any consideration of this tract as an architectural district.
1-23
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SOUTHERN AVENUE LOOKING EAST TOWARD LOCUST
SOUTHERN AVENUE LOOKING WEST
1-24
SURVEY TRAC2
T
SOUTH LOCUST STREET
t
t
2.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
TRACT DESCRIPTION
Survey Tract No. 2 encompasses the area generally bounded by Southern Avenue on the
south, South Locust Street on the east, Dodge Street on the north and the Mississippi River
bluffs on the west. These boundaries are shown in Figure 2.1, and have been selected
because they comprised the natural limits of this portion of the city up to the
turn -of -the -century. The development east of South Locust Street has not been included in
the survey tract because those buildings are of recent construction and have been built on
man-made land. Before filling occurred early in the 20th-century the west shore of the
Mississippi River backwaters came up to the east edge of South Locust Street.
Approximately the southern three-quarters of the survey tract is occupied by single-family
dwellings which range in age from 50 to over 100 years. Most of these houses were built
during the 1870's and 1880's. Six commercial and industrial buildings occupy the northern
quarter of the survey tract. These buildings date primarily from 1930 and later. The rear
portion of the building at 75 South Locust (RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.19), though, is over
one hundred years of age, having been built in 1876 as part of the J. B. Ricketts and
Company malting house.
All of the houses in the tract are of frame construction, and all except one are two -stories in
height. Most of the houses are sided with clapboard although a few have asphalt shingle
siding. The commercial and industrial buildings are built mostly of brick and concrete block.
The tallest of these buildings if the four-story A. Y. McDonald warehouse (RESOURCE
SITE NO. 2.21).
The dominant feature of the tract is the bluff which rises abruptly 200 feet from street
level, dwarfing all the buildings located at its base. The locations of the twenty-one buildings
are shown in Figure 2.2. The historical and architectural significance of each of these
buildings has been evaluated both individually and in a district context.
TRACT HISTORY
This survey tract includes eight lots from the original town plat of Dubuque filed in 1838
and thirty-one additional lots included in five additions to the city. These additions were the
Subdivision of Mineral Lot 55 and City Lot 696A filed by Richard Bonson on July 18,
1866; Stout's Dubuque filed by Henry L. Stout on November 17, 1857; an Addition to
Stout's Dubuque filed by William Coates, president of the Dubuque Harbor Company, on
October 11, 1873; the Subdivision of Lot No. 229 in Union Addition filed July, 1870; and
Levi's Addition filed by Alexander Levi on April 7, 1885. All of these additions and
subdivisions were quite small and very few of the present land titles for property located in
the tract specify boundaries which conform to the original platted lot lines.
2-1
As stated previously most of the dwellings located in the tract were built during the 1870s
and 1880s. Those individuals who have historically resided in these dwellings were generally
employed in one of several businesses located in the immediate vicinity.
Only four businesses were actually located in the survey until after 1900. These businesses
were ail situated at the north end of the tract. They were the Key City Brewery, founded in
1852 by Ignatz Seeger; the J. B. Ricketts Malting House, built in 1876; James Beach and
Sons Soap Factory, established in October, 1855; and the C. W. Robison/Peter J. Sei ppel
lumber yard, founded about 1860. Of these businesses, portions of the J. B. Ricketts
Malting House (RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.19) and James Beach and Sons company complex
(RESOURCE SITE NOS. 2.20 and 2.21) still remain. Other businesses located in the
vicinity of Survey Tract 2, which provided employment for its inhabitants, were the J. S.
Randall and Dubuque Lumber Company sawmills and lumber yards, the Illinois Central
repair shops and the Wm. Ryan pork packing plant.
Until 1920 most of what is now called South Locust Street was considered part of Southern
Avenue. Since almost the beginning of the history of Dubuque this road has served as the
only highway leading out of the city to the south. When first laid out as part of the military
road to Iowa City, South Locust Street followed a very narrow strip of land bounded on the
west by sheer 200-foot high bluffs and the backwaters of the Mississippi River on the east.
This relationship between the road and the landscape has since been obscurred by the filling
of the Mississippi backwaters and the construction of factories and commercial buildings on
the man-made land. Figure 2.3 shows how the survey tract looked in 1891 before the filling
of the backwaters.
Sources: C. C. Childs, The History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical
Company, 1880)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
City Directories (1857, 1880, 1921-22)
2-2
FIGURE 2.1
2-3
TECTURAL SURVEY
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TRACT NO. 2
FIGURE 2.1
2-3
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SANBORN INSURANCE MAP OF DUBUQUE, IOWA 1891
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2-5
2.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
Twenty-one resource sites are located in Survey Tract No. 2. RESOURCE SITE NOS. 2.2
thru 2.15 are single-family dwellings which were constructed primarily during the 1870's
and 1880's. None of these houses have been found to be either historically or architecturally
significant. The other seven resource sites located in this survey tract include a professional
office building, a vocational training school, two light industrial buildings, a plumbing
supplies warehouse and showroom, and a one-story frame storage building. Of these
buildings two possess minor historical importance. The rear of RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.19,
located at 75 South Locust Street, was constructed in 1876 and served for many years as
the malting kiln of the J. B. Ricketts Company. However, the top two floors of this building
have been removed, and consequently, much of its historical integrity has been lost. The
second building of interest is the A. Y. McDonald warehouse (RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.21),
located at 350 Dodge Street. This buildings was originally the James Beach and Sons Soap
and Candle Factory a business which dated from 1855. This particular building, though, was
not built until between 1891 and 1909, and is actually the third factory building to have
occupied this same location.
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.1
Storage Building (nw cor. Southern Avenue and S. Locust Street)
Levi's Add'n, Lot 12
HISTORY
This building was erected about 1915. For many years it was owned by Wm. J. Holmberg,
who manufactured horseradish on the premises. Holmberg lived in the house just to the
north of this building (RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.2).
ARCHITECTURE
The building is a simple rectangular frame structure with no distinctive features.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-17A
City Directory (1921-1922)
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.2
John M. Burns House (383 S. Locust Street)
Levi's Add'n, Lot 11 and S. 18' Lot 10
HISTORY
The property on which this house is located was sold by Alexander Levi to Michael Sullivan
. The
in 1881. Sullivan owned the property uIno9 Holmberg are 14 when he sold
of't to Wm. J. any historical significance.
house was built in 1886. Neither Sullivan which dates from the
The house, however, is of interest as an element of a house group
1870's and 1880's (see RESOURCE SITE NOS. 2.3 thru 2.9).
ARCHITECTURE
The house consists of a two-story main section, which measures 28'-6" wide by 16 feet
deep, and a one-story, 16-foot by 14-foot wing attached to the south. This attachment most
d sometime
likely houses the dwelling's kitchen
the house is stone. Architecturally, hitecturally the housedthe
is well
turn -of -the -century. The foundation of is an
proportioned and balancedo The e otherwosech of au austere facade.ornamental detail on the two porches
attractive compliment
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
(H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 6
(A1=3) + (A2=2) + (A3=4) = 9
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 15 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-18
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
i
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RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.3
Marcella E. Corbett House (375 S. Locust Street)
Sub'n N. 15' of Lot 10 Levi's Add'n, Lot 1; Sub'n Lot 9 Levi's Add'n, Lot 2
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was constructed in 1881. At that time the
owner of the property was Michael Fenton who had purchased the lot from Alexander Levi
in 1876. However, another source, the annual building summary for 1872, suggests that the
house was constructed in that year. Fenton, who was a laborer, held the property until
1904. Although the house is not individually important, it is an element of one of the older
house groupings in the city.
ARCH ITECTURE
The house is a simple two-story rectangular box. The dimensions of the house are 22 feet
wide by 16 feet deep. The small amount of fenestration is indicative of houses of the 1870's
and early 1880's. It is also interesting to note that most of the houses along South Locust
Street are oriented with their ridge lines parallel to the road, whereas most of the
19th-century dwellings in Dubuque are gable fronted. This phenomenon is most likely due
to the shallow depth of the lots on South Locust.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 7
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
2-9
2-8
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-19
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1880)
Dubuque Daily Times (November 23, 1872)
2-10
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.4
House (367 S. Locust Street)
Levi's Add'n S. 10' of Lot 7, Lot 8, and Sub'n of Lot 9, Lot 1
HISTORY
This house was built sometime during the latter half of the 1870's. At that time the owner
of the property was Mary Brennan. This house has been sold several times for back taxes.
This house is of no individual historical importance. It is, though, one of a contiguous group
of dwellings which all date from the 1870's and 1880's.
ARCH iTECTURE
The main element of this house consists of a 1 3/4-story rectangular volume which measures
22'-6" wide by 14'-6" deep in plan. Frame additions are attached to the rear and north
sides. The foundation of the house is stone. The overall simplicity of the dwelling and small
amount of fenestration suggests an early date of construction.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 4
Combined Rating = 10 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-20
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
2-11
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.5
House (359 S. Locust Street)
Levi's Add'n S. 17' Lot 5, Lot 6 and N. 17' Lot 7
HISTORY
This house was most likely constructed during the 1880's. Bridget Mehan purchased the lot
from Alexander Levi in 1880 and resold it to Michael Sullivan in 1888. Sullivan then owned
the property until 1922 when he sold it to Albert Shiers, a clerk for the Standard Oil
Company. This house is not individually important, but it is of minor significance as part of
one of the older working class house groups in Dubuque.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is a simple two-story frame dwelling, which is rectangular in plan and measures
tached to te
r of
24 feet wide by 16 feet deepo m°of the house° isdsimi similar porchosurrounding tdwellhngsedThe
the house. The scale and
foundation of the house is stone.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 5
Combined Rating = 11 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-21
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1921-1922)
2-12
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.6
William F. Wittstock House (345 S. Locust Street)
Sub'n of Lot 3, Levi's Add'n, Lot 2; Levi's Add'n, Lot 4;
and Levi's Add'n, N. 10' of Lot 5
HISTORY
This house was built about 1875 shortly after Dennis Powers purchased the land from
Alexander Levi. Dennis Powers was a laborer. In 1908 Michael Powers sold the house to
Josephine Althaus. This house possesses no individual importance, but it does possess some
minor significance as one of a group of similar working class dwellings, which are among the
oldest remaining in the city.
ARCH ITECTURE
This house is very similar in size, scale and composition to other surrounding dwellings. The
house consists of a two-story rectangular main section, which measures 24 feet wide by 16
feet deep, and a one-story, 12-foot by 12-foot attachment on the south end, which most
likely serves as a kitchen. The only distinctive feature of this house is its six -over -six
windows.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 5
Combined Rating = 10 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-22
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
2-13
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.7
Thomas W. Hynes House (337 S. Locust Street)
Levi's Add'n S. 25' Lot 1, Lot 2 and Sub'n of Lot 3, Lot 1
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was built about 1875. At that time the
property was still in the ownership of Alexander Levi. It is doubtful, though, that he ever
lived in this house. In 1886 Levi sold the property to Michael Powers, who was then a
printer with the Dubuque Daily Times. Powers held the property until 1908 when he sold it
to Josephine Althaus. This house is of no individual importance. It is, though, contemporary
with the surrounding houses and in a group context does possess some minor historical
importance.
ARCHITECTURE
The main two-story, 24'-6" by 16-foot portion of the house is similar to surrounding
dwellings in size and scale. The three windows on the second story, though, contrast with
the fenestration pattern of the other houses in the area. The picture window on the main
section and corner windows on the second story of the south wing compromise the integrity
of this dwelling.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=1) = 2
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=1) = 2
Combined Rating = 4 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-23
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
2-14
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.8
House (329 S. Locust Street)
Sub'n of Lot 229 Union Add'n, Lot 1; Sub'n 5 of Lot 229 Union Add'n,
Lot 2; and Levi's Add'n, N. 2' of Lot 1
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was constructed about 1870. It is not
known who owned the property at that time. All that is known about this house is that in
1921 it was occupied by John H. Thorpe, a brakeman for the Illinois Central Railroad.
ARCH ITECTURE
This house is very similar to the other houses in the immediate vicinity. It is two-story and
of frame construction with a stone foundation. In plan it is a simple rectangle with no
additions. It dimensions are 28 feet wide by 16'-6" deep. The windows on the first story
have been alterred and compromise the architectural integrity of the house.
SIGNIFICANE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=2) = 3
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 4
Combined Rating = 7 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-24
City Directory (1921-1922)
2-15
RESOURCE NO. 2.9
Raymond F. Rowell House (321 S. Locust Street)
Sub'n 5 of Lot 229 Union Add'n, Lot 1 and Sub'n 6 of Lot 229 Union Add'n, Lot 2
HISTORY
Richard Bonson sold this property to Michael Flynn in September, 1874, and the house was
probably built shortly thereafter. Flynn, who was a laborer with the Dubuque Water
Company, died about 1908, and then the property was sold to David Wall. Wall sold the
property to Alfred Horsefall in 1921. Horsefall was also an unskilled laborer by occupation.
This house possesses no individual historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
In both size and scale this house is similar to surrounding dwellings. It is 1 3/4-story in
height and measures 16'-6" by 24'-6" in plan. The composition of its elevations and its gable
fronted orientation, though, are a significant departure from the pattern followed by other
houses in the area. Otherwise this house evidences no distinctive characteristics.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (
Al=0) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 4
Combined Rating = 9 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-25
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
t
toi
mu
on
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.10
House (289 S. Locust Street)
Stout's Dubuque Add'n of Min. Lot 54, Lot 5; Sub'n of Lot 229 Union Add'n, Lot 1
HISTORY
This house was built in 1872 by Patrick Kennedy, who was a laborer with the Illinois
Central Railroad. In 1902 Ann Kennedy sold the house to Mrs. Maggie Cullen, who in turn
resold it the same year to M. J. Connoly. In 1921 the house was occupied by John J.
McGrath, a laborer for the Martin-Strelau coal company. None of the individuals known to
be associated with this house are of any historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This 1 3/4-story frame house is generally rectangular in plan with a Ieanto addition attached
to the south side. The overall appearance of the house is quite spartan. In scale, use of
materials and composition this house is typical of the type of late 19th-century working
class dwelling found in the southern part of Dubuque.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=2) = 3
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=2) = 3
Combined Rating = 6 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record
Dubuque Daily Times (November 23, 1872)
City Directories (1880, 1921-1922)
2-17
2-16
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.11
Geraldine E. Miller House (235 S. Locust Street)
Stout's Dubuque Add'n, Lot 1 and N. 10' Lot 2
HISTORY
In 1880 Michael Mahony bought this property from Richard Bonson, one of Dubuque's
early land speculators. The house was most likely built sometime shortly thereafter. This
house and property remained in the Mahony family until 1935 when John J. Mahony sold it
to the Home Owners Loan Corporation. John Mahony was a watchman for the Dubuque
Boat and Boiler Works.
ARCHITECTURE
The original portion of the house is of two-story frame construction measuring 32 feet wide
by 20 feet deep. A one-story frame addition is attached to the north side of the main house.
An open veranda extends around the addition on the east and north sides. This house is
somewhat larger than the other houses in the area, but like the other houses it is spartan in
appearance, completely lacking in ornament.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=2) = 3
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=2) = 3
Combined Rating = 6 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-33
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directories (1921-1922)
2-18
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.12
William J. Hoffman House (229 S. Locust Street)
Stout's Dubuque Add'n, S. 41'-8" of Lot 4
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was built about 1870. This date, however, is
much too early. It is more likely that the house was constructed after 1921 as no house at
this address was listed in the 1921 city directory. This house appears to be of no historical
importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is typical of dwellings built during the first few decades of the 20th-century. The
cornice returns, large front windows and tapered columns on the front porch are features
typical of dwellings of that period. Although undistinguished the house is well designed and
the overall appearance is pleasing.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=3) + (A2=1) + (A3=1) = 5
Combined Rating = 5 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-35
City Directory (1921-1922)
2-19
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.13
House (225 S. Locust Street)
Stout's Dubuque of Min. Lot 53, Lot 3 and N. 6' of Lot 4
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was constructed in 1920.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is of standard design and is of no architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
(H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
(A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-36
City Directory (1921-1922)
2-20
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.14
Tuu Hoa Hoang House (215 S. Locust Street)
Stout's Dubuque, Sub'n of Min. Lot 53, Lot 2
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was built in 1886. At that time the owner
of the property was Johanna Scollard. In 1921 the occupant of the house was Thomas J.
Scollard, who worked as a clerk for the Illinois Central Railroad. This house does not appear
to be of any individual historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is of two-story frame construction with a stone foundation. The plan of the
house is rectangular, measuring 28 feet wide by 16'-6" deep. An enclosed one-story porch
has been added to the front of the house and a one-story, 9-foot by 16-foot 'L' has been
attached to the rear. In scale, use of materials and form this house is similar to adjacent
dwellings. Individually, it is undistinguished.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=2) = 3
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=2) = 3
Combined Rating = 6 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-37
City Directory (1921-1922)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
2-21
1
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.15
Susan Schenk House (205 S. Locust Street)
Stouts Dubuque, Sub'n of Min. Lot 53, Lot 1
HISTORY
According to city assessment records the house was constructed in 1886. At that time the
property was owned by Catherine Hafey, who was still the owner of the house in 1921. This
house does not appear to be of any historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is of 1 3/4-story frame construction with stone foundation. In plan the house was
originally rectangular, measuring 16 feet wide by 26 feet deep. A 12-foot by 21-foot
one-story frame addition has been attached to the northwest corner of the origin& dwelling.
This house is vernacular in style and possesses no individual architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=2) = 3
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=2) = 3
Combined Rating = 6 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-38
City Directory (1921-1922)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
2-22
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.16
Fahey & Toohey, CPAs and Transport Sales Company (155 S. Locust Street)
City Lot 578 and prt. of Union Add'n, Lot 34
HISTORY
This building was built in 1960 and is of no historical significance. Previously, the Key City
Brewery occupied this site. Ignatz Seeger founded the brewery about 1852 and ran the
company independently until 1868 when he formed a partnership with Frank Brady, A.
Gleed and A. Reichman. This partnership operated under the name Dubuque Joint Stock
Beer Brewing Company. This company ran the brewery until 1873 when Ambrose Gleed
leased the operation from his former partners. Gleed went out of business in 1876, and in
January, 1878, the premises was sold under a decree of foreclosure to John Pier for $7000.
In 1880 Pier employed six men and was producing about ten barrels per day. By 1891 this
brewery was no longer in operation. Evidence indicates that the building had been destroyed
by fire.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is a simple rectangular one-story structure dating from 1960. The exterior
sheathing of the building is wood panelling, which possibly covers concrete block walls. This
building is of no architectural importance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 1
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 1 (Group 4)
2-23
Sources: Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
C. C. Childs, History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical
Company, 1880)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
2-24
111114
11111
On
IUN
IUM
11011
IMO
eii
obi
ion
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.17
A. R. C. Vocational Training Center (129 S. Locust Street)
no legal description
HISTORY
This building was built in 1958 and is of no historical significance. Previously, the Key City
Brewery occupied this site. (See RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.16 for history of the Key City
Brewery.)
ARCHITECTURE
This building is a one-story brick structure and possesses no architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 1
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) =0
Combined Rating = 1 (Group 4)
Sources: Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891).
2-25
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.18
David Solomon Company Building No. 1 (75 S. Locust Street)
Part of City Lot 579
HISTORY
This building appears to have been built within the past ten years. Previously this site was
occupied by a two-story frame commercial building.
ARCHITECTURE
The building is a one-story concrete block structure with brick facade. This building is of no
architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combine Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
2-26
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.19
David Solomon Company Building No. 2
Sub'n of City Lots 578A and 579, Lot 5
HISTORY
The rear two-story portion of this building was built about 1876 as the malt kiln portion of
the J. B. Ricketts Company. Originally, the kiln was four stories in height. The Rickett's
Company closed about 1890. The one-story loading dock portion of the building was built
in 1956.
ARCHITECTURE
The 1876 portion of the building may be of some interest from an architectural
technologies point -of -view. Modification to the structure, though, has compromised its
integrity. The structural condition of this portion of the building is also quite poor. The
remainder of the building is of no architectural importance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=4) + (H2=4) + (H3=2) = 10
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=3) + (A3=1) = 4
Combined Rating = 14 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-49
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
City Directories (1874-75, 1884-85, 1890-91, 1892-93)
2-27
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.20
A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. Showroom (57 S. Locust Street)
Prt. City Lots 580 & 581
HISTORY
The A. Y. McDonald Company acquired this building in 1937. The previous owner was the
firm of James Beach and Sons, which had gone into receivership during the previous year.
No definite date of construction is known for the building but an early lithograph of the
James Beach and Sons Company complex would suggest a date after 1910. (For additional
history on the firm of James Beach and Sons see RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.21). Before
construction of the building the land which it occupies was used for the storage of lumber
for the Peter J. Seippel Lumber Company, which in 1897 took over the C. W. Robison
Lumber Yard. The C. W. Robison company had occupied the site since about 1860.
According to county land records neither of the lumber companies ever owned the land on
which their lumber yards were located. Rather the property's owners from 1858 to 1937
were various partners of the James Beach and Sons Company and its predecessor company,
Pleins and Beach.
ARCH ITECTU RE
The building is of two-story masonry wall bearing construction. The original fenestration is
spanned by segmental rowlock arches. The front of the building has been extensively
alterred. However, it can be assumed that the building was probably originally similar to the
warehouse located to the north (RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.21), being functionally designed
and lacking significant ornamental detail.
2-28
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=1) + (H3=1) = 3
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=1) = 2
Combined Rating = 5 (Group 4)
Sources: Franklin T. Oldt and P. J. Quigley, eds., History of Dubuque County, Iowa
(Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association, 1911)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce, 1911)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
2-29
RESOURCE SITE NO. 2.21
A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. Warehouse (350 Dodge Street)
City Lots 581, 582 & 583
HISTORY
This building is the third to have housed the James Beach and Sons Company, and its
predecessor companies, on the same site. The original soap factory was established in
October, 1855, and operated under the name F. M. Pleins and Company. At that time the
company consisted of three frame buildings and employed three workmen. In 1858
Leurandus Beach acquired a half interest in the firm, which subsequently was renamed
Pleins and Beach. By 1863 the original frame buildings had been replaced by a 136-foot by
55-foot, two-story stone factory and a 50-foot by 40-foot warehouse. In 1875 Leurandus
Beach sold his interest in the company to his son, James Beach.
By 1880 the name of the firm had changed again. A history of Dubuque County published
that year referred to the company as the Dubuque Lard -Oil, Soap and Candle Factory. The
firm was then manufacturing soap at the rate of 10,000 boxes annually and employed a
work force of ten men. The firm marketed its product under the following brand names:
White Castile, Legal Tender, Peerless, Royal, Blue, Key City, Imperial, German and Family.
Also, in 1880 James Beach took over sole ownership of the firm.
According to Sanborn Insurance Maps the present building was constructed between 1891
and 1909. Subsequently, two floors of the southern portion of the building have been
removed. This alteration probably occurred after the building was acquired by the A. Y.
McDonald Mfg. Co. in 1937.
It is interesting to note that when founded this enterprise was located on the outskirts of
the city away from other industry in the city. This was probably due to the noxious nature
2-30
of the soap making process. This location, though, was most likely also influenced by its
proximity to packing houses, which would certainly have been a prime source of raw
material for the manufacture of soap.
Also, located on the east end of this property were the lumber yards, warehouses and office
of the C. W. Robison Lumber Company, which was taken over by Peter J. Seippel in 1897.
Today Seippel Lumber Company is located directly across S. Locust Street from this
property.
ARCHITECTURE
Although the height, scale, use of materials and cornice treatment are consistent throughout
the building, the different fenestration patterns of the east and west halves of the north
elevation suggest that the building was built in two stages. Construction of both stages,
though, probably occurred only a few years apart at the most. The building is masonry wall
bearing with stone sills and segmental arched window heads. According to a 1911 lithograph
two stories of the south wing of the building have been removed.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=4) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 10
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 5
Combined Rating = 15 (Group 3)
Sources:
C. C. Childs, History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical
Company, 1880)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce, 1911)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
2-31
2.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
HISTORY
Both historically and topographically Survey Tract No. 2 can be considered the northern
most portion of a linear district which initially extended from the intersection of South
Locust with Dodge Street to the intersection of Southern Avenue with Grandview Avenue.
Until 1920 the total stretch of road which defines this district was known as Southern
Avenue, and until 1957, when Kerrigan Road was completed, the highway leading out of
Dubuque to the south followed this road. The opening of Kerrigan Road and the
redevelopment of the northern end of Southern Avenue have destroyed the continuity of
the original district.
Modifications of the original topographic boundaries of the district have also resulted in the
substantial Toss of integrity for the area. The filling of the Mississippi backwaters, which
originally defined the eastern edge of the district, has obscurred the historical relationship of
the road to the landscape. Subsequent building on the fill land has obscurred this
relationship even further.
ARCHITECTURE
Regarding the buildings located in the survey tract, most are of the same period and style of
construction. All of the residential buildings, are of frame construction with either
clapboard or asphalt shingle siding. The orientation of these dwellings is in most cases with
the roof ridge line parallel to the street. This building orientation is due to the shallowness
c
ty are
of the lots. Most oth90(Tract Ily No�2 arelofsin tmasonry'wall bearingable fronteconstruction.
on
industrial buildings located inSurvey
The architectural integrity of the residential buildings is good and they hold together as a
group, but the design quality of the individual units is low. The architectural integrity of the
industrial and commercial buildings in the tract is low due to extensive modification of the
historic buildings and the construction of nonconforming infill structures. The new
commercial buildings located on the fill land east of South Locust Street contrast in both
scale and form with the historic buildings west of the highway.
2-32
SOUTH LOCUST STREET LOOKING SOUTH
SOUTH LOCUST STREET LOOKING NORTH
2 —33
1.1
SURVEY TRACT
DODGE STREET
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we
1011
11.
IMP
Asa
1ft
3.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
TRACT DESCRIPTION
Survey Tract No. 3 encompasses the area either side of Dodge Street to the base of the
bluffs which border the street, and from Locust Street west approximately 2000 feet. The
limits of this tract are shown in Figure 3.1. The north and south boundaries have been
dictated by the topography of the area. The western limit of the tract demarcates a clear
dividing line between the nineteenth century residences located along the south side of
Dodge Street and the recent strip commercial development which predominates to the west.
The Julien Dubuque Bridge defines the tract's east end. Within the tract, all of the buildings
which occupy the south side of Dodge Street are single family residences dating primarily
from the 1870's and 1880's. Along the north side of Dodge Street the type and age of
buildings vary from late nineteenth century frarne dwellings to a modern brick and concrete
block motel. Also located along the north side of Dodge Street are four restaurants, two gas
stations and the Dubuque Tourist Information Center. Except for the dwellings, all of the
buildings on the north side of Dodge Street have been built since 1950 and most within the
past fifteen years.
Architecturally, all of the buildings within the tract can be described as vernacular. Of the
dwellings the archetype is two -stories in height and rectangular in plan, measuring from 16
to 18 feet wide by 24 to 30 feet deep with the gable end facing Dodge Street. All except
two of the dwellings are of frame construction.
The locations of all buildings located in Survey Tract No. 3 are shown in Figure 3.2. These
buildings have been evaluated with respect to both their historical and architectural
significance. These evaluations have been made both on the basis of each building's
individual importance and the importance of the buildings within a district context.
TRACT HISTORY
Old-time Dubuque residents know Dodge Street as Gas House Hollow. This name came
from the gas plant which was built at the foot of the hollow in 1854. At first the gas
plant was located at the northwest corner of Dodge and Locust Streets, where the Dubuque
Tourist Information Center is now located. In 1868 a new plant was constructed one half
block to the west. This was shortly after Julius K. Graves took over as president of the Key
City Gas Company. The second gas works remained in operation until 1897 when the
company moved again to new facilities, which were this time constructed on Pine Street
between Tenth and Eleventh Streets.
The first individuals to settle in the hollow were miners. One of the first and most well
known of the miners to settle in the vicinity was Thomas Kelly. He was a reclusive
individual, and when he died in 1867, it is reported he left thousands of dollars in gold coins
buried in the bluff to the north of Dodge Street. Today this bluff continues to be known as
3-1
Kelly's Bluff and from time to time would-be fortune hunters search its slopes in hopes of
finding Thomas Kelly's gold.
The first subdivision of land in the survey tract for residential purposes was by A. A.
Cooper, Edward Smith and William Newman in 1868. This subdivision included fourteen
lots facing on Dodge Street. Except for Lot 1, each of the fourteen lots measured 30 feet
wide by 100 feet deep. The houses constructed on these Tots were built during the 1870's
and 1880's. (See RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.11 thru 3.19). Most of the other houses located
along the south side of Dodge Street were also built during this period.
Most buildings located on the north side of Dodge Street have been built during the past
fifteen to twenty years. Previously, this land was used for the storage of lumber and other
building materials by the Peter J. Seippel Lumber Company.
Politically and ethnically the tract is identified with the Irish First Ward. Along with Survey
Tracts One, Two and Four, this tract was part of that area of the city called Dublin. Those
who have historically lived here have been members of the working class.
Sources: Peter Hoffman, Concise History of the City and County of Dubuque from
1833-1934 (unpublished, Loras College Library, Dubuque, Iowa)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
Iowa Writer's Program of the W.P.A., Dubuque County History (Dubuque:
County Superintendent of Schools, 1942)
3-2
TRACT NO. 3
FIGURE 3.1
3-3
TECTURAL SURVEY
TRACT NO. 3
FIGURE 3.1
3-3
-800
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FIGURE 3.2
3-4
3.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
Survey Tract No. 3 encompasses thirty-two individual resource sites. Twenty-three of these
sites are single-family residences, most of which date from the 1870's and 1880's. The ten
other sites included in this survey tract house commercial establishments and, except for
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.20, were built during the last thirty years.
All nineteen of the buildings located along the south side of Dodge Street (RESOURCE SITE
NOS. 3.1 thru 3.19) are single-family residences and hold together well as a group.
Consequently, most of these houses have been assigned a Group 3 significance rating, which
signifies that although they do not merit special recognition individually, they may be
considered of some importance in a group context. One of these houses (RESOURCE SITE
NO. 3.19) has also been assigned an individual Group 2 significance rating. This particular
brick dwelling most likely is not eligible for the National Register of Historic P/aces, but
nevertheless possesses local importance due to its historical association with James Welsh,
who served many years as principal of the First Ward School (Franklin School), and because
of its status as a archetypical example of vernacular residential architecture.
Among these buildings located along the north side of Dodge Street, only two, RESOURCE
SITE NOS. 3.21 and 3.22, merit any special recognition. These two houses are both good
examples of early twentieth century working class residential architecture. Their
incorporation of Victorian details adopted from earlier more substantial designs, is indicative
of a national trend of the time, which was to encourage architect designed housing for all
classes of people through the dissemination of architecture plan and pattern books.
3 —5
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.1
House (860 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 730 and 1 Union Add'n, Lot 8
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-23-3-7
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directories (1880, 1899-1900, 1921-22)
HISTORY
The ownership history of this property is somewhat confused. In 1844 John D. Buthe
sh
obtained the property from the Federal Government, and in June, i 886, he I vi gsold the
in
property to Wm. Coughlin. City directories, throbably tlentedthat
the house for a time before
house in 1880. This suggests that Coughlin p
remained in the
in
pufamily until
rchasing it. The house, which was built in 1876, Various directories IgtlWm Coughlin n
1945, at which time it was sold for 5000 dollars.
simply as a laborer, or with no occupation.
ARCHITECTURE
e with a shallow 'L' projecting from the southeast
The house is generally rectangular in shape corner. In plan the house measures 20 feet wide by 42 feet deep. The foundation of the
y.
Th
nted
house is stone. individually, the house is undistinguished facade,architect
ra lico sesgable fro the
orientation and three bay organization of the main
predominant design motif found within the survey tract.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (
Al=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 8
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
3-7
3-6
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.2
House (844 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 730 and 1 Union Add'n, Lot 9
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was constructed in 1886. At that time
James Martin owned the property, and the property abstract indicates that he had taken out
a 700 dollar mortgage on the property in November, 1885. Mary Swift purchased the house
from James Martin for $1600 in April, 1906; and eight years later, in March, 1914, she sold
it to Maurice Hennessey for $1600. According to the 1921-1922 city directory Maurice
Hennessey was a soft drinks distributor. This house does not appear to be of any individual
historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is a frame, two-story with clapboard siding and stone foundation. In plan, the
house measures 18 feet wide by 26 feet deep with both a 14-foot by 12-foot one-story
frame addition and a 4-foot by 12-foot open frame porch attached to the rear. Individually,
the house is undistinguished architecturally. In form, scale and design composition, though,
the house harmonizes well with surrounding dwellings and possesses minor importance as a
member of a working class house group.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) -- (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 8
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
3-8
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-23-3-6
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1921-22)
3-9
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.3
Hubert J. Ramaker House (830 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 730 and 1 Union Add'n, Lot 10
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was constructed about 1870. At that time
the property was owned by John D. Bush. In 1885 Bush sold the property to James Walsh,
who in turn two years later sold it to Daniel J. Sullivan for $300. Sullivan remained in
possession of the property until 1920 when he sold it to Daniel G. Hogan. Hogan was a
cashier for the International Harvester Company. This house is of no individual historical
importance, but it is supportive of the historical integrity of the pre-1900 house group
which occupies the south side of Dodge Street.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is a frame, two-story with asphalt shingle siding and stone foundation. In plan the
house is rectangular in shape, measuring 18 feet wide by 28 feet deep. Three one-story
frame additions have been attached to the rear of the house, and a one-story enclosed porch
has been added to the front. Individually, the house is undistinguished. However, in scale,
composition, and form it is in harmony with surrounding dwellings and may be of minor
importance in a group context.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3-3) = 8
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
3-10
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-23-3-5
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directories (1880, 1921-22)
3-11
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.4
House (824 Dodge Street) Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=2) = 5
Sub'n of City Lot 730 and 1 Union Add'n, Lot 11 Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=3) + (A3=1) = 4
Combined Rating = 9 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-23-3-4
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Dubuque Daily Times (January 1, 1869)
HISTORY
John D. Bush obtained this property from the United States in 1844, and in 1884 he sold
Lot 11 to Catherine McNulty. Evidence suggests, though, that the McNulty's had actually
occupied this property long before the transfer of title occurred. According to city
assessment records the house was built about 1870, and the Dubuque Daily Times building
summary for 1868 lists J. McNulty as having constructed a one-story frame dwelling on
Dodge Street costing $500. In 1913 Mary Kate McNulty sold the property to Kate Truber,
who held title to the property until 1920 when she sold it to the Voelker Realty Company.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is one-story and of frame construction with stone foundation. The original unit
measures 20 feet wide by 16 feet deep. Several additions have been attached to the rear and
these date mostly from 1910 and earlier. The small size of the house supports an early date
of construction. This is one of the oldest houses in the immediate vicinity. In scale,
orientation and composition this house contrasts sharply with surrounding dwellings, most
of which were built during the late 1870's and 1880's.
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.5
John C. Abrams House (816 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 730 and 1 Union Add'n, Lot 12
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was built in 1910, and this date of
construction is supported by the 1909 Sanborn Map of the area which confirms the house
did not exist at the time the map was made. This house does not appear to be of any
historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is 1 1/2-stories in height and of frame construction. In plan it measures 24 feet
wide by 32 feet long. In form, size and composition the house is typical of early
20th-century bungalow style dwellings. This house is out of character with the surrounding
dwellings.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=0) = 2
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=1) = 2
Combined Rating = 4 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-23-3-3
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
3-14
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.6
House (810 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 730 and 1 Union Add'n, Lot 13 and W. 3'-6" Lot 14
HISTORY
According to city assessment records the original portion of this house was constructed in
1840. At that time the property was owned by Felix Mercier. Nothing is known about this
man nor has any other evidence been found to support the 1840 construction date.
Subsequent owners of the property have been John D. Bush, 1844-1887; James Welsh,
1887-1889; C. W. Robison, 1889-1892; and Thomas Rudd, 1892-1916. Of these individuals
only C. W. Robison and John Bush attained local prominence. Robison was the owner of a
large lumber yard located on the corner of Dodge and Locust Streets. Bush was mayor of
Dubuque twice and a prominent real estate dealer. Bush probably never actually lived in this
house.
ARCHITECTURE
Originally, this house consisted of a simple 14-foot wide by 30-foot deep rectangular box.
The rear `L' was added sometime after 1909. The foundation of the house is stone. The
narrowness of the house and the small windows suggest an early date of construction. If this
house was actually built in 1840 it may be partially of log construction. Extensive
modification has compromised the integrity of this dwelling.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=3) + (H3=1) = 6
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=3) + (A3 =1) = 4
Combined Rating = 10 (Group 4)
3-15
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-23-3-2
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
C. Childs, History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical
Company, 1880)
3-16
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.7
Raymond Gourley House and Bicycle Repair Shop (804 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 730, E. 33'-4 1/2" Lot 14 and Lot 15
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was constructed in 1896. At that time the
owner of the property was James Welsh. In 1898 Catherine Welsh, James Welsh's widow,
sold the property to Fanny Hippmann. Fanny Hippmann held the property until 1916 when
she sold it to John M. Savage. The occupant and owner of the house in 1921 was Daniel J.
Sullivan. Neither the house nor any of its inhabitants appear to be of any historical
importance.
ARCHITECTURE
Architecturally, the house is characteristic of turn -of -the -century residential design.
Trademarks of this period of design are the decorative shingling of the front gable, the gable
ornament and L-plan. Other features of the house, most notably the fenestration pattern of
the main facade, though, are reminiscent of other houses in the area which date from the
1870's and 1880's. (See RESOURCE SITE NOS. 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3).
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3-2) = 4
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 5
Combined Rating = 9 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-23-3-1
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1921-22)
3-17
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.8
Cecilia A. Lynch House (794 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of Lot 2 of N. 150' of Lot D of Cooper's Sub'n, Lot 2
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was built in 1891. At that time the property
was owned by Patrick Clancy, who had purchased it a year earlier from Ellen Ahern for
$625. In December, 1891, title to the property was transferred to Mathew Clancy. Patrick
Clancy was a minor local politician having served as city alderman. Mathew Clancy, Patrick's
son, managed the Clancy Transfer Company.
In 1901 Julius C. Goodhouse purchased the property for $1700, and two years later he sold
it to Minerva M. Connolly. Minerva Connolly then sold the property to Catherine Schroeder
in 1904. From that time until 1972 the property remained in the Schroeder family.
ARCHITECTURE
Although probably not designed by an architect, this house exhibits significantly greater
concern for detail than is found in other houses in the vicinity. The most noticeable of its
distinctive design features are the jerkinhead roof treatment, paired square gable windows,
sidelights and transom surrounding the front entry, and decorative millwork used on the
front and side porches. Minus of one-story frame addition to the east, the main portion of
the house is similar in scale, size and orientation to many other houses in the area. (See
RESOURCE SITE NOS. 3.1, 3.3, 3.10, 3.15, 3.16 and 3.18)
3-18
■s
11.11
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 7
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 7
Combined Rating = 14 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-39
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Franklin T. Oldt and P. J. Quigley, eds., History of Dubuque County, Iowa
(Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association, 1911)
3-19
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.9
House (784 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of Lot 2 of N. 150' of Lot D of Cooper's Sub'n, Lot 1
HISTORY
Pni
According to city assessment records this house was built about 1880. Ellen Ahern was the
owner of record at that time. She had purchased the north 150 feet of Lot D of Cooper's
Subdivision from James Rowan in 1878 for $110. In 1890 she sold this property to Patrick
Clancey for $615. Clancy in turn subdivided the property with Lot 2 of 2 going to his son,
Mathew (see RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.8); Lot 1 to Adam P. Berg for $350; and Lot 1 of 2
being kept for himself. Patrick Clancy, a local politician of minor importance, and his heirs
retained Lot 1 of 2 until 1901. That year both Lot 1 of 2 and Lot 2 of 2 were sold to Julius
C. Goodhouse, who inturn in 1903 resold Lot 1 of 2 to John B. Latz for $650. Between
1903 and 1932 this property was sold three more times. Except for Patrick Clancy, none of
the property's owners possessed any local prominence.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is 1 3/4-stories in height and of frame construction. The foundation of the house
is stone and the basement floor is earth. The original portion of the house is rectangular in
plan, measuring 16 feet wide by 24 feet deep. The one-story frame addition measures 12
feet by 12 feet. In height, orientation and shape this house is similar to many of the other
houses in the area. The narrow width and side entrance, though, are somewhat unusual
features. The large first story front window severely compromises the integrity of this
dwelling both individually and in a district context.
3-20
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=2) + (H3=1) = 5
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=2) + (A3r 1) = 3
Combined Rating = 8 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-38
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Franklin T. Oldt and P. J. Quigley, eds., History of Dubuque County, /owa
(Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association, 1911)
3-21
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.10
James W. Corbett House (770 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of N. 150' of Lot D Cooper's Sub'n, Lot 1
HISTORY
City assessment records estimate that this house was constructed in 1880. At that time Ellen
Ahern was the owner of record of this property. She had purchased the north 150 feet of
Lot D of Cooper's Subdivision from James Rowan in 1878 for 110 dollars. This low
purchase price would support the assumption that no dwellings existed on the property at
that date. On July 10, 1890, Patrick Clancy purchased and subdivided the north 150 feet of
Lot D. Lot 2 he inturn split between himself and his son, Mathew (see RESOURCE SITE
NOS. 3.8 and 3.9), and Lot 1 of the subdivision he sold to Adam P. Berg for $350. It is
possible that the house was not actually built until Berg purchased the property in 1890, for
the next year he took out a mortgage on the land for 250 dollars. On the other hand, the
mortgage may have been taken to finance the construction of the two-story frame addition
to the rear of the original brick portion of the house. According to local building statistics,
such an addition would have cost about $250 in 1890 while a brick house would most likely
have cost about three times that much.
ARCH ITECTURE
in scale, orientation and composition this house is similar to many other houses in the area.
The use of brick and the side entrance, though, are unusual features. In plan the brick
portion of the house measures 20'-6" wide and 12 feet deep. The foundation of the house is
stone. The exterior of this house is well maintained and the integrity appears to be good.
3-22
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=3) + (A3-4) = 11
Combined Rating = 16 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-2-5-37
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
3-23
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.11
House (682 Dodge Street)
Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n, Lot 14
HISTORY
Evidence relative to the construction, ownership and occupancy of this house is quite
confusing. City assessment records estimate the year of construction for the house as 1870,
one year after the platting of Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n. Title transfer records,
though, suggest a date of construction no earlier than 1879, when Mrs. Margaret Tracy
obtained title to the property from A. A. Cooper and his partners. Other title transfer
information would suggest that construction did not occur until 1891. In March of that year
Patrick Clancy purchased the lot from Mrs. Tracy for $150 and one month later he resold it
for $500. In 1895 Louis M. Kringle obtained a mortgage on the property for $1000. This
would indicate that the house definitely existed by that date. In 1898 Catherine Doyle
purchased the property from Louis Kringle, and members of the Doyle family have
continuously occupied the house to the present, &though title to the property is now in
another name. None of the individuals who appear to have ever lived in this house are of any
historical importance.
ARCH ITECTURE
The house is of frame construction with stone foundation and earthen basement floor. In
plan the original, front portion of the house measures 22'-6" wide by 16'-6" deep. Three
additions have been attached to the rear. In scale and use of materials this house is similar to
other dwellings in the area. However, its orientation and composition are somewhat out of
harmony.
3-24
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=2) + (A3-=2) = 4
Combined Rating = 8 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-28
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
3-25
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.12
Angela V. Gilligan House (678 Dodge Street)
Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n, W 1/2 Lot 12 and Lot 13
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was constructed about 1870. In 1880
Catherine Wilson was issued a special warranty deed by Newman, Cooper and Smith. This
suggests that Catherine Wilson already resided on the property at that time. The next
transfer of title on this property did not occur until 1913 when Catherine Wilson sold it to
B. Hayes. None of these individuals who have either owned or resided in this house appear
to be of any historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This two-story house is of frame construction with stone foundation and earthen basement
floor. In scale, composition and orientation this house is generally similar to other houses in
the vicinity. One unusual feature of this house, though, is the second story overhang on the
east side of the dwelling. The narrow width of this house, 14'-6", suggests an early date of
construction.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2-2) + (H3-3) = 5
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 5
Combined Rating = 10 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-27
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
3-26
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.13
George L. Flanagan House (670 Dodge Street)
Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n, Lot 11 and E. 1/2 Lot 12
HISTORY
City assessment records estimate that this house was constructed about 1880. At that time
David Burns was owner of the property, having purchased it in 1878 from A. A. Cooper and
his associates. This property remained in the Burns family until 1903, when it was
purchased by Thomas Rudd for $825. In 1921 the occupant of the house was Mrs. Bridget
Rudd, presumably Thomas Rudd's widow. David Burns, according to the 1880 city
directory, was a shoemaker and ran his business from this house.
ARCHITECTURE
The front portion of the house is generally similar to other houses in the area. However, the
two bay arrangement of the front elevation is less common than the three bay arrangement
found on most other houses in the immediate vicinity. The windows of this house are also
wider than those of most other housed in the area. One additional unusual feature of this
house if the rear addition which is partially constructed of stone.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating -_ 13 (Group 3)
(H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
(A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 8
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-2.4-5-26
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directories (1880, 1921-22)
3-27
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.14
Lillian A. Glass House (666 Dodge Street)
Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n, Lot 10
HISTORY
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-25
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1880)
According to city assessment records this house was constructed about 1880. At that time
title to the property was still held by A. A. Cooper, Edward Smith and William Newman.
The 1880 city directory, though, indicates that John Byrne, a laborer, and Wm. Byrne, a
baker, were residing on this property in that year. In 1900 John Byrne obtained legal title to
the property from Cooper, Smith and Newman. In 1911 Anne Byrne, John's widow, sold
the property to Margaret Newt for $500, and she inturn sold it eight days later to Charles H.
Reynolds. None of those individuals who are known to have resided in this house are of any
historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This one-story frame house is only 12 feet wide. This small size suggests an early date of
construction. The size of the front window, though, may suggest otherwise or a
modification to the original structure. In scale and composition this house does not
harmonize well with other houses in the area.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 4
Combined Rating = 8 (Group 4)
3-29
3-28
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.15
George W. Flanagan House (654 Dodge Street)
Flanagan Place; Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n, Lot 7
HISTORY
This house is estimated to have been built about 1875. At that time the property was still
officially owned by A. A. Cooper, Edward Smith and Wm. Newman. In 1885 Terence
O'Loughlin purchased the property for $200. O'Loughlin continued to own the property
until 1904 at which time he sold it to Wm. Anderson for $1025. Thomas J. Hodges then
purchased the property for $1200 on September 30, 1915, and on the same day resold it to
John Williams, who worked for the Martin-Strelau coal company. None of the owners or
occupants of this dwelling appear to be of any historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
In size, orientation and composition this house is similar to other houses in the area.
However, it does lack the open front porch possessed by most surrounding dwellings. In
plan the house is rectangular in shape, measuring 20 feet wide by 30 feet deep. The
foundation of the house is stone and the basement floor is earth. The new siding and
perma-stone across the front reduce the integrity of this house.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 5
Combined Rating = 9 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-22
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
3-30
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.16
Michael P. Barrett House (650 Dodge Street)
Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n, Lot 6
HISTORY
The estimated date of construction for this house is 1880. At that time the owner of the
property was Ann McQueen. She had purchased it in 1875 from A. A. Cooper, Edward
Smith and Wm. Newman for $250. In 1885 Ann McQueen's heirs sold the property to John
R. Waller for $650. Waller was a real estate agent and probably never lived in the house, and
in 1886 he gave his partner in the real estate business, Edward Duncan, a quit claim deed to
the property. Duncan inturn sold the property to Bridget McCormick for $800. This
property then remained in the McCormick family until 1915 when it was sold to John P.
Cosgrove. None of the occupants of the house appear to possess any historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is two stories high and of frame construction with a stone foundation. In plan the
original dwelling is rectangular in shape measuring 18'-6" wide by 28 feet deep. Single story
frame additions have been attached to the rear and east sides. In scale, orientation and
composition this house harmonizes well with other dwellings in the area. The only
distinctive feature of this house is the diarnond shaped gable window, which may be a later
addition.
3-31
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 8
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-21
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.17
Elinor V. Tierney House (642 Dodge Street)
Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n, Lot 5
According to city assessment records this house was constructed about 1875. This date is
probably a few years too early as the property was not sold by Cooper, Smith and Newman
until 1877. Ann Walsh purchased the property for $250 and obtained a loan of this amount
from Fannie Hepp to cover the purchase. Apparently Ann Walsh was unable to repay the
loan, so Fannie Hepp took possession in 1880. She inturn sold the property to E. W.
Duncan and John R. Waller, partners in the real estate business. Joseph Straney purchased
the property from them in 1885 for $500. The next sale of the property did not occur until
1919 when it was purchased by Roy F. and Francis L. Tierney. Roy Tierney was employed
by the Dubuque Fire Department as an aid to the chief. A check of local histories failed to
reveal any information about other residents of the house.
ARCHITECTURE
Several features of this house are unusual for the area. In particular, the fenestration of the
main facade is the most noticeable variation. The 1 1/2-story height is also unusual. In plan,
though, the house's dimensions, 16 feet by 24'-6", are normal for the area. The house also
has the common stone foundation and ear then basement floor.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2--2) + (A3=2) = 5
Combined Rating = 9 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-20
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1921-22)
INN
IOU
1.11
INN
NMI
3-34
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.18
Justine P. McCarthy House (636 Dodge Street)
Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n, Lot 4
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was constructed about 1875. At that time
Patrick Scarry was the owner of the property, having purchased it in 1872 from Cooper,
Smith and Newman for $200. In 1889 Patrick McNulty bought the property from Scarry
for $350. The next sale of the property was in 1919 with the Voelker Realty Company
making the purchase. None of those who are known to have resided in this house are of any
historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is generally typical of the area in size, height and form. In plan the house
measures 16 feet wide by 30 feet deep with an 18-foot by 11-foot single story frame
addition attached to the rear. The foundation of the house is stone and the basement floor
is earth. Two unusual features of this house are the arrangement of columns on the front
porch and the large three panel window on the first floor.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 5
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 8
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-19
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
3-35
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.19
House (616 Dodge Street)
Newman, Cooper & Smith's Sub'n, Lot 1
HISTORY
This house was constructed about 1875. At that time James Welsh owned the property,
having purchased it the previous year from Newman, Cooper and Smith. Jaynes Welsh was
principal of the First Ward School. The next transaction involving the sale of this property
was not until 1926 when it was purchased by Jesse L. Glover.
ARCH ITECTU RE
This is the only completely brick house in the survey tract. In scale, form and composition
it is similar to several of the surrounding frame dwellings. It is also quite similar to brick
houses in other parts of the city. In plan the house measures 20 feet wide by 28 feet deep
with a one-story, 10'-6" by 18-foot brick addition attached to the rear and an open frame
porch extending around the north and east sides of the dwelling. The foundation of the
house is stone and the basement floor is earth. On the interior the downstairs floors are
softwood and the upstairs floors are hardwood. The integrity of this house is good; however,
it is beginning to show signs of physical deterioration.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=3) + (H3=4) = 9
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=4) + (A3=4) = 12
Combined Rating = 21 (Group 2)
3 —36
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-24-5-16
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
C. Childs, History of Dubuque County, /owa (Chicago: Western Historical
Company, 1880)
3-37
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.20
Savary's Tavern (827 Dodge Street)
no legal description
HISTORY
Little is known about the history of this building. It is known, though, that the house
portion was built sometime previous to 1909. It is also known that in 1915 the occupant of
the house was Augustave Gardner. While in 1921 Otto Oikari, a tailor, resided in this house.
ARCHITECTURE
The original portion of this building consists of a house which probably dates from about
1880. In shape, orientation, and composition this house is very much out of character with
the other buildings in the area.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=1) = 2
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=1) = 2
Combined Rating = 4 (Group 4)
Sources: City Directories (1913, 1921-22)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
3-38
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.21
Margaret M. Sable House (821 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of E. 130' of 1-1-1 City Lot 725, Lot 2
HISTORY
This house was constructed in 1911. In 1918 the house was occupied by James P. Strain and
in 1921 George L. Savary, a foreman for the Farley-Loetscher Manufacturing Company,
lived at this address.
ARCHITECTURE
This house resembles designs found in twentieth century architecture publications. In
particular, about 1900 architects began designing housing for a mass market and many of
these early designs adapted Victorian motifs to modest priced housing. The most noticeable
Victorian features of this house are the T-plan, diamond window and pent gable. It is also
very likely that this house was originally sided with narrow width clapboards contrasted
against areas of decorative shingles. Although this house has been resided its integrity
remains high.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 11
Combined Rating = 15 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-15-1-7
City Directories (1918, 1921-1922)
3 —39
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.22
Andrew H. Fuerst House (809 Dodge Street)
Sub'n 1 of E. 130' of Sub'n 1-1-1 City Lot 725, Lot 2
HISTORY
This house was built about 1918. At that time it was occupied by Frank D. Voellinger, who
worked for the Illinois Central Railroad. Previous to the construction of this house the
property was used by the Peter J. Seippel Lumber Company for the storage of lumber and
other building materials.
ARCHITECTURE
The architectural character of this house is similar to that of RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.21.
This is most likely a standard design house copied from either an architectural journal or
plan book. The contrasting shingle and clapboard siding, three panel windows and T-plan are
design features which during the early decades of the twentieth century were adapted from
earlier Victorian designs in order to add character to mass produced working class and
moderate priced housing. The integrity of this house is good.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 11
Combined Rating = 15 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-15-1-8
City Directory (1918)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
3-40
"TA
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.23
Dodge House Motel (701 Dodge Street)
no legal description
HISTORY
This motel is of recent construction and is of no historical importance. Previously, the
property was used by the Peter J. Seippel Lumber Company for the storage of lumber and
other building materials.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is constructed of brick and concrete block with span-crete floor and roof
decks. This building is architecturally undistinguished.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
3-41
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.24
Hardee's Restaurant (703 Dodge Street)
no legal description
HISTORY
The restaurant is of recent construction and is of no historical importance. Previously, the
property was used by the Peter J. Seippel Lumber Company for the storage of lumber and
other building materials.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of no architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
3-42
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.25
Dodge House Restaurant and Lounge (701 Dodge Street)
no legal description
HISTORY
This building is of recent construction and is of no historical importance. Previously, the
property was used by the Peter J. Seippel Lumber Company for the storage of lumber and
other building materials.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of no architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (Now York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
3-43
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.26
A & W Drive -In Restaurant (693 Dodge Street)
no legal description
HISTORY
This building is of recent construction and is of no historical importance. Previously, the
property was used by the Peter J. Seippel Lumber Company for the storage of lumber and
other building materials.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of no architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3-0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
3-44
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.27
Demetri's Restaurant and Viking Lounge (665 Dodge Street)
no legal description
HISTORY
This building is of recent construction and is of no historical importance. Previously, this
property was occupied by a lumber shed owned by the Peter J. Seippel Lumber Company
and a two-story frame double house.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of no architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
3-45
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.28
Joseph McDonald House (653 Dodge Street)
Sub'n of Lot 8 of City Lot 598, Lot 2
HISTORY
This house is estimated to have been built about 1890. In 1913 the house was occupied by
Miss Mary Cleary. In 1921 Peter McDonald, a mechanic, resided at this address. This house
does not appear to be of any historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is rectangular in plan measuring 18 feet wide by 18 feet deep with a 17-foot by
14-foot addition attached to the rear. T he foundation of the house is stone. In scale,
orientation, and shape the house is similar to other dwellings in the area. Two unusual
features of this house are the diminutive window on the second floor in front, which
probably indicates the location of a bathroom, and the shallow pitch of the roof compared
with other houses in the area.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (F13=2) = 3
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=1) + (H3=2) = 3
Combined Rating = 6 (Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-15-1-17
City Directories (1913, 1921-1922)
3-46
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.29
House (645 Dodge Street)
Pixler Place Lot 2
HISTORY
This house was constructed about 1900. In 1913 it was occupied by Nicholas A. Ginter. In
1918 Peter Rawlacyk and John Faith were both listed in the city directory as occupants of
the house. Emil Maier, a clerk with the Iowa Home Furnishings Company, was living at this
address in 1921. None of the known residents of this house are of historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
The house, like most other houses in the area, is a simple rectangle in plan. The dimensions
of this two-story frame dwelling are 28 feet wide by 18 feet deep. The wood shingle siding
of this house harmonizes well with its heavily landscaped setting. The gable which projects
up from the center of the main facade is a design feature found on this period of housing
throughout the city.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
Architectural: (A1=3) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 9
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-15-1-18
City Directories (1913, 1918, 1921-1922)
3-47
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.30
Holiday Derby Gas Station (605 Dodge Street)
no legal description
HISTORY
This building was constructed after 1960 and is of no historical importance. Previously,
three detached dwellings, one double house and a two-story brick grocery and saloon
occupied this site on the northwest corner of Bluff and Dodge Streets.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of no architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Source: Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
3-48
116
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.31
Dan's Super Service/Amoco Station (351 Dodge Street)
N. 55' of City Lot 584 and City Lots 585, 585A, 585B and 585C
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this service station was built in 1951. It appears,
though, that modifications have been made in recent years. Previously, this property was the
site of the city's second coal gasification plant which was built in 1868. That company was
known as the Key City Gas Works. (See also RESOURCE SITE NO. 7.8)
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of no architectural importance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
(H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
(A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) =0
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-11A
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
3-49
RESOURCE SITE NO. 3.32
Tourist Information Center (349 Dodge Street)
City Lot 577
HISTORY
The present building is of recent construction. Previously, this property was the site of the
city's first gas works, which was built in 1855 and replaced by newer facilities on the half
block just to the west in 1868. After removal of the gas works the property was occupied by
a meat market and slaughter house. In 1891 a two-story brick commercial building was
erected on the property.
ARCH ITECTURAL
This building is a hexagon shaped, one-story structure with a modernistic sculptured finial
which projects about six feet above the roof apex. The site is well landscaped.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=3) + (A2=1) + (A3=1) = 5
Combined Rating = 5 (Group 4)
Source: C. Childs, History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical
Company, 1880)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
3-50
glat
1411
ISTRICT EVALUATION
HISTORY
Survey Tract 3 may be considered a district in two historic contexts. First, as part of the
Irish First Ward, this tract in conjunction with Survey Tracts One, Two and Four comprises
that portion of the city once referred to as Dublin. Second, Dodge Street during the early
days of Dubuque was known as Gas House Hollow. The source of this name was the Key
City Gas Company which in 1854 located its original gas works at the foot of Dodge Street
between Bluff and Locust Streets. The only portion of this company which still remains is a
warehouse (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.8), built about 1890, located on Bluff Street.
With respect to the historical integrity of the tract, the nineteen single family residences
which occupy the south side of Dodge Street almost all date from the 1870's and 1880's.
Many of these houses, though, have been added to and otherwise alterred. The buildings
occupying the north side of Dodge Street mostly were built during the past 15 to 20 years.
The age discrepancy between the two sides of Dodge Street severely compromises the
importance of this area as a historic district.
IO
ARCHITECTURE
All of the buildings within Survey Tract No. 3 can be considered as being of vernacular
design. In a group context the nineteen dwellings which occupy the south side of Dodge
Street hold together well. All except for two of the dwellings are of frame construction.
Twelve of these houses, in particular, (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.7, 3.8, 3.10,
3.12, 3.13, 3.15, 3.16, 3.18 and 3.19) conform to the same general design in scale,
orientation and composition. In plan these houses are rectangular in shape and oriented with
their gable ends facing Dodge Street. This similarity in design is largely the result of the way
this portion of the city was platted. These Tots are generally from 30 to 35 feet wide and
100 feet deep.
The buildings located along the north side of Dodge Street show no group relationship, nor
do they relate well with the houses on the south side of the street. The architectural conflict
between the two sides of Dodge Street, plus the fact that many of the houses located on the
south side of the street have been modified, significantly reduces the importance of this
tract in a district context.
-51
DODGE STREET LOOKING EAST TOWARD THE JULIEN DUBUQUE BRIDGE
SOUTH SIDE OF DODGE STREET LOOKING WEST FROM BLUFF STREET
3 -52
rn
SURVEY TRACT
BLUFF, JONES & LOCUST STREETS
(DUBLIN DISTRICT)
4.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
TRACT DESCRIPTION
Survey Tract No. 4 encompasses the area generally bounded by Dodge Street on the south;
Harrison Street, from Dodge to Jones Street, and Locust Street, from Jones to First Street,
on the east; First Street on the north and bluffs on the west. These tract boundaries are
shown in Figure 4.1, and have been selected as they demarcate the heart of an area which
historically has been identified with Dubuque's Irish population, and which even today is
spoken of as "Dublin" by the city's older residents.
Although this tract only consists of three and one-half square blocks of land, it is
transversed by two of the city's most heavily traveled streets, Locust Street (northbound
U.S. Highway 151-61) and Bluff Street (southbound U.S. Highway 151-61). Its southern
boundary, Dodge Street, constitutes a third major traffic artery, U.S. Highway 20, which
carries traffic across the Mississippi River on the Julien Dubuque Bridge to East Dubuque,
Illinois. Another feature of the street pattern of this tract is that First Street marks a point
of inflection for north -south traffic. This last feature of the area's street pattern dates from
the original platting of the city in 1838, and it was born of geographic necessity which
demanded accommodation for the bluffs to the west and the Mississippi River on the east,
which in earlier days came as far inland as present day South Locust Street. On the other
hand, the status of Dodge, Locust and Bluff Streets as major highway links dates only from
1943 when the Julien Dubuque Bridge was constructed to replace the then highway bridge
on Fourth Street.
Despite the functional similarity of Bluff and Locust Streets the character of abutting land
uses and buildings varies considerably. Locust Street is primarily bordered by automobile
oriented commercial establishments, which have been built since the end of World War II.
Except for the west side of Locust from Dodge Street to Jones Street almost one-half of the
land abutting the street is reserved for parking. Bluff Street, on the other hand, has
maintained its historic residential character with twelve of the twenty buildings along the
two blocks from Dodge to First Street dating from 1880 or earlier. Jones Street, between
Locust and Bluff Streets, is also residential in character, but most of its dwellings date from
about 1920. A third residential street within the tract is Bissell Lane, which is located
midway between and runs parallel to Bluff and Locust Streets. This street, which is really an
alley, had a dozen houses along it in 1891, but currently only three remain.
Most of the pre-1900 buildings in the tract are two -stories in height with gable roofs. On
Bluff Street twelve of the buildings are constructed of red brick supported on limestone
foundations. The curbing along Bluff Street is also stone. On Jones Street the two pre-1900
dwellings (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.17 and 4.21) are also of two-story brick construction;
while of the seven other houses, one (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.15) is a two-story concrete
artificial stone structure and the six others are one -and -one -half -story bungalows - one brick
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.37), one frame (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.16), one tile
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.41) and three concrete artificial stone (RESOURCE SITE NOS.
4-1
4.38, 4.39, and 4.40). The three alley houses on Bissell Lane (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.18,
4.19 and 4.20) are two-story frame structures which have been sided with asphalt and
composition shingles. And on Locust Street the new buildings are primarily one-story
concrete block structures, while the pre-1900 buildings, which constitute most of the west
side of the street from Dodge to Jones, are very similar to buildings located on Bluff Street,
Jones Street and Bissell Lane.
Altogether, fifty-two buildings have been surveyed and evaluated with respect to their
individual historical and architectural significance. The locations of these buildings are
shown in Figure 4.2. All of these buildings have also been evaluated within a district context
and as components of architectural groupings, when appropriate.
TRACT HISTORY
As stated above, Survey Tract No. 4 has been historically associated closely with Dubuque's
Irish population, thus the designation "Dublin". A reminder of the strong ethnic heritage of
the area is found in the ornamental shamrock motif of the Halpin Building (RESOURCE
SITE NO. 4.22), located on the southwest corner of Locust and Jones Streets. Along with
its ethnic association this area was also viewed locally as a lower class residential area. And
in the opinion of some it was a slum, providing a haven for the vices and ruffians which the
more respectable sections of the city shunned.
Describing how the area looked in about 1860, one life long Dubuque resident wrote, "...to
the end of Dublin, ...S. Locust, was all built up, but in 1 and 2 story frame buildings and
below 1st St. mostly hovels and shanties. Here lived the Irish population and for years
decent people hardly dared to go down that street. From 1st St. for 3 or 4 blocks down the
place was all Doggeries and Low Class Boarding Houses."
An 1891 Sanborn map of the area (Figure 4.3) illustrates that not many changes had
occurred by that date. The 1891 map further shows that saloon keeping remained the major
economic activity along Locust Street.
City directories provide information about the people who resided within the tract at
various points in time. Of the 138 individuals listed in the city directory of 1857-1858 as
living within Tract No. 4, and who had occupations specified, 83 were classified simply as
laborers. The next largest occupational group was saloon keeper with twelve individuals
reporting this occupation. Only 26 individuals from this district reported their occupation as
being that of a skilled craftsman, such as a carpenter, stone cutter, blacksmith, etc.
An 1880 city directory shows that during the intervening twenty years the economic
character of the area changed little. The 38 unskilled laborers still comprised the major
occupational classifications of those residing in Survey Tract No. 4. This can be compared
with 20 in the skilled crafts, seven professionals (3 teachers, 3 policemen and 1 engineer)
and five merchants. Today the area still maintains this working class character.
4-2
TECTURAL SURVEY
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4-4
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A further historical feature of the tract is the two industrial facilities which were located
within its limits during the latter part of the nineteenth- and early part of the
twentieth -centuries. One of these was the Key City Gas Company. This company, which was
founded in 1854, manufactured gas from coal for use in lighting streets and homes in the
city. The original gas works was located on the northwest corner of Dodge and Locust
Streets, and in 1868 new facilities were built one-half block to the west. These facilities,
along with the remainder of Survey Tract No. 4, are shown in an 1871 photograph of
Dubuque taken from about the same angle as Figure 4.1 (see Figure 4.4). Presently, an
Amoco Service Station occupies the site of the gas works, although the company's office
and warehouse (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.8) still remain.
The other industrial facility was the Chamberlain Plow Company, which was the predecessor
of the Norwegian Plow Company (see RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.11). This complex was
located on the northwest corner of Locust and Jones Streets and consisted of a four-story
brick warehouse and office building and a one-story brick factory building. Around the
turn -of -the century the factory building was taken over by the John Ernsdorff Iron
Company and the four-story warehouse by the Beatrice Creamery Company. Around 1915
both buildings were demolished and replaced by four one -and -one-half story bungalows.
Today, the tract remains much as it was in 1891 along Bluff Street. However, along Locust
only the half block between Dodge and Jones Streets on the west side of the street remains
relatively intact historically.
Source: C. C. Childs, The History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical
Company, 1880)
Josiah Consett, Recollections of People and Events: Dubuque, Iowa, 1846-1890
(unpublished manuscript, Carnegie -Stout Public Library, Dubuque, Iowa)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque, (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce, 1911)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
4-5
28
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FIGURE 4.4
4.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
Survey Tract No. 4 includes 52 resource sites. Forty-one of these resource sites are
residential buildings - single-family houses, double houses and row houses. Of the remaining
eleven, one is the Franklin Elementary School, now used only for storage, another is a
welding shop and the other nine house a variety of commercial establishments.
Five of these 52 resource sites probably qualify on an individual basis for the National
Register of Historic P/aces. One of these five, the old Halpin grocery and tavern building
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.22), is both historically and architecturally significant. The four
others (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.4, 4.14, 4.17 and 4.30), would qualify for the National
Register primarily because of their architectural quality. Also, probably eligible for the
National Register is the block face of houses which comprise the east side of Bluff Street
from Jones Street to First Street. This particular block face has remained intact since before
1884.
Of the remaining buildings located in the survey tract, most of those located on Bluff and
Jones Streets possess some degree of historical or architectural significance, and taken as a
group, or as part of a district, may also be eligible for the National Register. The integrity of
most of these buildings on Bluff and Jones Streets is very high and only one intrusion
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.13) mars the overall historical integrity of the area. The Bluff
Street portion of this tract gains further importance due to its continuity with other historic
areas located to the north, which include St. Raphael's Cathedral and the Fourth Street
elevator.
4-8
PI 11
PHI
no.
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.1
Pixler Electric (11 Bluff Street)
Sub'n of Lot 1 Pixler Place, Lot 1
HISTORY
The building was originally constructed in 1955 and has since been enlarged. This building is
located on what was previously City Lot No. 598 of the original "Plat of Dubuque", which
was formerly the site of several frame and brick residences. Neither the building nor the site
possess any historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
The building is of concrete block construction and possesses no architectural significance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Records, 3-15-1-23 thru 3-15-1-18
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Perris Map Company,
1891)
4-9
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.2
Double House (27-29 Bluff Street)
Sub'n 2 of City Lot 599, Lot 2; Sub'n of City Lot 599A, Lot 2
HISTORY
City assessment records estimate the date of construction of this three-story double
residence as 1900. However, Sanborn maps indicate that the building existed as early as
1884, while an early Alexander Simplot lithograph depicting Dubuque in the year 1856
shows a building remarkably similar to this building as existing at that date.
Before the street numbering change implemented in 1920, the address of this double
residence was 81-85 South Bluff Street. The 1884 Sanborn map shows that at that time the
first floor of the south portion of the building served as a grocery and this is confirmed by
an 1881 city directory which lists Philip Flynn as having a grocery at 85 South Bluff Street.
The 1875-1876 city directory lists Martin O'Connor as having a grocery business at 85
South Bluff Street, and property ownership records indicate that he purhcased City Lot 599
in 1851 from John McKenzie for 600 dollars. Therefore, it is highly probable that the
building does date from the mid-1850's.
Of those others who have owned this property only John J. Nagle and Bernard J. O'Neill are
mentioned in any of the published local histories. These men bought the property from
Margaret O'Dea in 1882 for $6000. Both men were prominent local businessmen and appear
to have bought the property as an investment as neither man is listed in any directory as
having ever lived at 85 South Bluff Street.
ARCHITECTURE
The building is a three-story, brick double residence. The south portion of the building
4-10
tin
consists of three bays, while the north portion occupies two bays. The most distinctive
feature of this otherwise very plain structure is its broad projecting bracketed cornice. The
foundation is of local stone and the basement floor is earthen. In plan the building's
dimensions are 36 feet wide by 32 feet deep.
This building is the only three-story residential building in the survey tract. Its design
composition is also unique to the area. This building is probably one of the three oldest
buildings remaining in Survey Tract No. 4.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 21
Source:
(H1=3) + (H2=5) + (H3=4) = 12
(A1=1) + (A2=4) + (A3=4) = 9
(Group 2)
City Assessment Record, 3-15-1-22
Dubuque, /owa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical Company, 1880)
City Directories (1865, 1875-76, 1881, 1899-1900)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
4-11
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.3 SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Franklin Elementary School (39 Bluff Street)
Sub'n 2 of City Lot 595, Lots 1 and 2; City Lots 596, 597, and 597A Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 7
Sub'n 1 of 2 of City Lot 600, Lot 2; Sub'n 2 of City Lot 600, Lot 2 ' Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=1) + (A3=4) = 9
Combined Rating = 16 (Group 3)
HISTORY
The present school buildings is the second school building to occupy the same site. This
building was designed by architects Buechner and Oath of St. Paul, Minnesota, who also
designed the second Audubon (Fifth Ward) School (non -extant), and erected in 1906. The
original Franklin (First Ward) School had been designed by the prominent local architect,
John F. Rague, who had also designed the original Audubon and Prescott (Third Ward)
Schools. The Prescott School, which is an exact copy of the first Franklin School, is still in
existence, although it has been converted into apartments. At the present time Franklin
School is used only for storage.
ARCHITECTURE
Franklin School is a 2 1/2-story building constructed of pressed brick with a native stone
foundation. The building is symmetrically organized about the main entrance and corridor
and measures 94 feet by 82 feet in plan. The interior finish is of red oak, and when built the
building cost $45,000. This building is very similar to schools found in other parts of the
state.
4-12
■
111
Source: Dubuque Times Journal, (May 20, 1906)
Lawrence J. Sommer, The Heritage of Dubuque (East Dubuque: Tel Graphics,
1975)
4-13
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.4
Double House (51-53 Bluff Street)
Sub'n 2 of City Lot 595
HISTORY
City assessment records list this double residence as having been built in 1876. However,
neither newspaper "Annual Building Summaries" nor land title transfer records provide
information to confirm this date of construction. Historical data pertaining to this property
is very scarce. However, it is known that from 1841 to 1925 the property was owned by
various members of a family named Sloan, but no information about any members of this
family has been found nor are any of the Sloan's associated with this property listed in any
city directories. City directories, though, do provide some information about those who
have occupied this building. In 1900, Frank Murphy, a truckman at the Hook and Ladder
Company, occupied the southern half of the residence. Frank McCann, who worked for
Farley-Loetscher, was listed at this address in both 1911 and 1921. Apparently, this double
residence has been a rental property since its construction and has been occupied exclusively
by working class families.
ARCHITECTURE
The most notable feature of this building is the open passageway which divides the building
symmetrically. Other residential structures with this feature are located at 1212 Elm Street
and on Central Avenue near Nineteenth Street. The passageway measures 3'-6" in width and
separates two identical 14-foot wide by 26-foot deep two-story units. One-story frame
additions have been attached to the rear of each side of the double house. Other
distinguishing features of this double house are the projecting cornice supported on paired
brackets, transoms over the doorways and end wall chimney location.
4-14
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=4) + (H3=5) = 10
Architectural: (A1=5) + (A2=5) + (A3=5) = 15
Combined Rating = 25 (Group 1)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-15-1-30
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
City Directories (1880, 1889-1890, 1899-1900, 1911, 1918, 1921-1922)
Lawrence J. Sommer, The Heritage of Dubuque (East Dubuque: Tel Graphics,
1975)
4-15
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.5
2-Family Residence (55 and 55 1/2 Bluff Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 595, Lot 1
HISTORY
City assessment records report the construction date of this dwelling as 1856. However,
Sanborn maps for 1891 and 1909 refute this early date of construction. The 1891 map
shows the building at the Location in question as being a one-story brick building, while the
1909 map shows the existing two-story frame building. A random check of city directories
failed to produce evidence of any locally prominent individuals as having ever lived in this
building.
ARCHITECTURE
The building was constructed in at least three stages. Extensive exterior modification
precludes further architectural evaluation.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
4 —16
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-15-1-31
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn - Perris Map Company,
1891)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
City Directories (1874-75, 1881, 1889-1890, 1899-1900)
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.6
Louis C. Barrett House (61 Bluff Street)
Sub'n of 2 of City Lot 600, Lot 1
HISTORY
City assessment records indicate the construction date for this house as being 1915. No
evidence has been discovered that would indicate that any locally prominent individuals
have ever resided in this house.
ARCHITECTURE
This concrete block residence is one variety of early twentieth century mass produced
housing. Several examples of this type of residential construction are found throughout
Dubuque, and it is known that the Peer -Amid Cement Stone Company was the local agent
loor
ion
ern and use of
for this building system. hW ndowrfirst transomsd ncbotdhffloorseaddsratfeel feeling richness not
leaded glass in the central
normally found in concrete block houses.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=3) + (H3=4) = 11
Combined Rating = 17 (Group 3)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-15-1-32
Portrait and Biographical Record of Dubuque, Jones and Clayton Counties
(Chicago: Chapman Publishing Company, 1894)
4-18
011
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.7
Double House (103-105 Bluff Street)
Sub'n 1 of City Lot 600, Lot 1
HISTORY
According to the 1884 Sanborn insurance map this double house predates that year, and the
ownership history of this property would indicate that the building may date from as early
as 1859. In 1859 Michael McGovern sold this property to James Reynolds for 1500 dollars
which indicates that a building already existed on the property at that time. From 1860 to
about the turn -of -the -century the property was owned by Hugh Cavanaugh, who also
occupied the house during that period. City directories for 1870-71 list Hugh Cavanaugh's
occupation as teamster, expressman and drayman in those respective years. The 1899-1900
city directory lists Michael P. Kenna, pressman for the Dubuque Herald at 103 Bluff and
Mrs. C. White is listed as the occupant of 105 Bluff Street. None of those individuals who
are known to have resided in this double house appear to be of any local historical
significance.
ARCHITECTURE
This two-story brick double residence is built on a stone foundation and has an earthen
basement floor. The dimensions in plan of each unit are 17 feet wide by 21 feet deep and
three frame additions are attached to the rear of the building. Distinctive features of this
4-19
double house are the crowstepped parapet walls and six -over -one second story windows.
Both of these features, as well as the cornice treatment, make this double house resemble
the Thedinga House, located at Fifth and Bluff Streets, which was built sometime during the
1840's. This double house appears to be in fair condition; however, the enclosed front porch
is a detracting element.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=4) + (H3=3) = 8
Architectural: (A1=3) + (A2=4) + (A3=4) = 11
Combined Rating = 19 (Group 2)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-15-1-34
City Dirdctories (1865, 1870-71, 1881, 1889-1890 and 1899-1900)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Lawrence J. Sommer, The Heritage of Dubuque (East Dubuque: Tel Graphics,
1975)
4-20
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.8
Warehouse (10 Bluff Street)
North 55' City Lot 584; City Lots 585, 585A, 585B and 585C
HISTORY
City assessment records estimate the date of construction for this building as 1890. Sanborn
maps for 1891 and 1909 indicate that the warehouse was built sometime between those
years, while an 1884 Sanborn map shows the front office portion of the building as already
existing in that year.
Historically, both portions of the building were built to serve the Key City Gas Company. In
August, 1853, the City awarded a gas franchise to Barker and Spellman of Cleveland, and in
September, 1854, they incorporated as the Dubuque Gas Light and Coke Company.
Construction of the original coal gasification plant, located on the northwest corner of the
intersection of Dodge and Locust Streets, was commenced in the fall of 1854 and
completed in 1858. In 1868 the company's operations were moved one half block to the
west to the northeast corner of Bluff and Dodge Streets. The most prominent individual
associated with this enterprise was Julius K. Graves, who became a stockholder in 1859 and
subsequently became the company's president. Graves' other local business interests
included associations with the Commercial National Bank, M. Mobley and Company and the
Dubuque Street Railway Company. He was also instrumental in founding the Chicago,
Clinton and Dubuque Railway Company; the Chicago, Dubuque and Minnesota Railway
Company and the Iowa Pacific. Furthermore, Julius Graves was responsibile for
construction of the Fourth Street Elevator.
In 1863 the Key City Gas Company opened a Main Street office for the convenience of
their customers and in 1897 a second coal gasification plant was built on Pine Street
4-21
between Tenth and Eleventh Streets. The 1909 Sanborn map shows that by that date the
Dodge Street plant had been abandoned, although the buildings and gasometer still
remained. It is not known when this company went out of business. This warehouse and
office building are the only remaining structures from the gas plant. An Amoco service
station presently occupies the site of the gasometer.
ARCHITECTURE
The warehouse portion of the structure is a simple two-story rectangular volume with a low
pitched gable roof. The windows are a twelve -over -twelve double hung variety with a double
brick segmental arch. The office portion of the building is single story with flat roof. The
building foundation is stone and the building has been painted white.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=4) + (H2=4) + (H3=3) =11
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=2) + (A3=4) = 8
Combined Rating = 19 (Group 2)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-11
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
The History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical Company,
1880)
Dubuque Daily Times (April 16, 1863)
Dubuque Telegraph -Herald (August 6, 1933)
4-22
■
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.9
Louis H. Allen House (18 Bluff Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 586, Lot 2
HISTORY
John Alien purchased City Lot 586 from William Newman for 800 dollars in May, 1866.
This sale price would indicate that some sort of building already existed on the property at
that date. However, the house in question was probably built in 1870 for the "Building
Summary" for that year lists a two-story, 20-foot by 30-foot frame residence as having been
constructed by John Alien on Bluff Street. City assessment records show the actual
dimensions of the house in question as being 20 feet by 28 feet. The cost of the house at the
time of construction was $1600. This house has remained in the Allen family to the present
day. From checking city directories and local histories it does not appear that any members
of the Allen family have ever gained local prominence.
ARCHITECTURE
The gable -fronted orientation and fenestration of the front facade of this dwelling is very
similar to that of other residences in the area, particularly those along the south side of
Dodge Street just west of Bluff. The windows in the house are of the six -over -six variety.
The architectural detailing of the main entrance is reminiscent of the Greek Revival Style.
The foundation of the house is stone.
4-23
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
(H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
(A1=3) + (A2=4) + (A3=3) = 10
(Group 3)
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 16
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-9
Dubuque Daily Times (December 18, 1870)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
The History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical Company,
1880)
City Directories (1870-71, 1881, 1899-1900)
4-24
RCE SITE NO. 4.10
Charles W. Robertson House (20 Bluff Street)
South 27' of the West 1/2 of City Lot 587
HISTORY
In 1850 James Robison purchased this property from William Dolan for 80 dollars. Twelve
years later Robison sold the property for 400 dollars to Margaret Roberts, who owned it
until June, 1890. A check of city directories confirms that Margaret Roberts occupied a
residence at 104 South Bluff Street (changed to 20 Bluff Street in 1920) during the period
from 1875 through 1890. In 1890 she sold the property to Clark D. and Henry E. Williams,
the properietors of Williams Brothers Bottlers, for 1200 dollars. None of these owners and
residents of this property and house appear to be of any local historical importance.
11
RCHITECTURE
This house is a simple gable -fronted two-story frame dwelling which is similar to dwellings
located on the south side of Dodge Street just west of Bluff. The windows are six -over -six
like those of the Louis H. Allen House (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.9). The original house
dimensions are 16 feet in width by 26 feet in depth. A 1 1/2-story frame addition measuring
14 feet by 12 feet has been added in the rear.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 7
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=1) + (A3=3) = 5
Combined Rating = 12 (Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-7
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directories (1857-58, 1865, 1870-71, 1874-75 and 1889-1890
4-25
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.11
Double Tenement (22-24 Bluff Street)
Northeast 48' of the West 1/2 of City Lot 587
HISTORY
City assessment records indicate 1896 as the date of construction for this building. Before
the street numbering change in 1920 the address of this building was 98-100 South Bluff
Street. In 1900 Henry E. Williams, of Williams Brothers Bottlers, resided at 98 South Bluff,
and P. H. Seippel, salesman for the P. J. Seippel Lumber Company, occupied the other half
of the building. Both of these individuals were local businessmen of secondary importance.
ARCHITECTURE
In plan each side of the tenement consists of a 19-foot wide by 28-foot deep main space
with a 13'-6" by 15-foot "L" attached to the rear. The building is a two-story brick with
stone foundation and a flat roof. Ornament on this building is confined to the bracketed
cornice and the columns and cornice of the entry porch. This building is very similar to
another double tenement located at 27-29 South Locust Street (RESOURCE SITE NO.
4.29). In color, texture and use of materials it harmonizes with other buildings in the area,
but it is somewhat out of scale for the neighborhood. The siding on the first story of the
south half of the building is also a detracting feature.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 7
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 6
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Source: City Assessment Records, 3-16-6-5 and 3-16-6-6
City Directory (1899-1900)
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.12
Robert F. Splinter House (30 Bluff Street)
North 39' of City Lots 588 and 588A
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was built in 1906. However, this date is
refuted by the Sanborn insurance maps for 1884 and 1891 which indicate that the house
was constructed sometime between those two dates. At the time the house was built the
property was owned by James Robison. Upon his death in 1890 the property was willed to
his three children -- John J. Robison, Thomas J. Robison and Mary Ann (Robison) Halpin,
wife of P. H. Halpin (see RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.21). John J. Robison was occupying the
house in 1900. At that time he was listed as a clerk working for P. H. Halpin.
ARCHITECTURE
The shape, size, orientation and organization of the main facade of this dwelling is similar to
several other houses located in the immediate vicinity and in other parts of the city. The use
of contrasting stone for window sills and as elements of the segmental arch window and
door opernings adds a distinctive quality to its appearance. Except for the metal hood over
the main entry the integrity and design quality of this house is probably the best in the
neighborhood.
4-27
4 —26
110
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=4) + (H3=4) = 8
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=4) + (A3=4) = 12
Combined Rating = 20 (Group 2)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-3
City Directory (1899-1900)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.13
House (36 1/2 Bluff Street)
City Lot 589
HISTORY
This house was built in 1963 and is of no historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is a single story, brick ranch style dwelling. The foundation is concrete block.
The color of the brick is tan and the roof is hipped. All of these elements sharply contrast
with the other buildings in the area. The fact that this house is set back from Bluff Street
somewhat lessens its negative visual impact upon the nineteenth century architectural
ambience of the surrounding area.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) t (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-2
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.14
Margaret McMahan House (36 Bluff Street)
City Lot 589A
HISTORY
City assessment records give 1900 as the estimated date of construction for this house.
However, other sources provide information which indicate a construction date more near
1850. In 1848, Mary Fern sold City Lots 588A and 589A to James Robison for 150 dollars
and these two parcels remained in the Robison family well into the 20th century. An 1857
city directory further indicates that James Robison was residing on Bluff Street between
Jones and Dodge at that date.Therefore, it is very probable that this house pre -dates 1856.
Regarding the significance of those who have historically resided in this house, only James
Robison's daughter, Mary Ann, attained any local prominence, which she owed to her
marriage to Patrick H. Halpin (see RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.21). James Robison, himself,
was by occupation a teamster.
ARCH ITECTURE
The side -lights and transom of the main entrance and cornice returns lend this house a
strong Greek Revival character. The symmetry of the main facade and the building's overall
simplicity add to this feeling. It is very likely that this is the oldest remaining building in the
tract probably dating from about 1850. The exterior of the house shows signs of neglect but
otherwise appears structurally sound.
4 — 30
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=5) + (H3=5) = 11
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=5) + (A3=4) = 13
Combined Rating = 24 (Group
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-2
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Adam's Directory of the City of Dubuque (Dubuque: W. A. Adams, Publisher,
1857-58)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
4-31
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.15
Clara E. Beadle House (334 Jones Street)
W 30' of City Lot 590
HISTORY
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-1
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1921-1922)
City assessment records give 1916 as the date of construction for this house. In 1913, Chris
Voelker, president of the Peer -Amid Cement Stone Company, sold the property to Mrs.
Lena Hillard. She in turn sold to Charles W. Zimpfer, who owned the property from 1920 to
1939. Charles W. Zimpfer was a baggageman for the Illinois Central Railroad when he
purchased the house.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is one of five concrete block houses located in Survey Tract No. 4, which were
constructed by Christopher A. Voelker's Peer -Amid Cement Stone Company. The three
section front window arrangement on the first and second floors is similar to that found in
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.6. The most distinctive feature of this house is the architectural
detailing of the Jones Street gable, which consists of a modified Palladian window
arrangement and fish scale shingle wall sheathing. Architecturally, this house is the least
successful of the five concrete block structures found in the survey tract.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 8
Combined Rating = 14 (Group 3)
4-33
4 —32
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.16
House (330 Jones Street)
E. 45' of the W. 75' of City Lot 590
HISTORY
City assessment records give 1916 as the date of construction of this house. The first owner
of the house was Henry D. Clemens, who in the 1921-1922 city directory was identified as a
traveling salesman.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is a 1 1/2-story bungalow and measures 22 feet wide by 46 feet deep with
22-foot by 7-foot enclosed front porch. The contractor for this house was Christopher A.
Voelker. The house is probably a standard design structure marketed throughout the
Midwest. This house harmonizes well with the other houses on Jones Street from Locust to
Bluff.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 15
(H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 6
(A1=3) + (A2=2) + (A3=4) = 9
(Group 3)
Source: City Assessment Record
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1921-1922)
4-34
RESOURCE SITE 4.17
Double House (320-322 Jones Street)
E. 61'-3" of the E. 76'-3" of City Lot 590
HISTORY
City assessment records indicate that this double house was built in 1896. However,
Sanborn insurance maps show that it was constructed somewhat earlier, between 1884 and
1891. In 1900 the residents of this double house were Frank O'Connor, who worked for the
Chicago Great Western Railroad, and J. W. Roach, an agent for the Railroad News
Company. Henry Seiter, who worked for Geisler Brothers' sheet metal business, and William
E. Horps, an Illinois Central Railroad employee, were the residents of this double house in
1921. None of these individuals are historically significants.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is the most architecturally refined double house found within the survey tract.
The plan is T-shaped with each unit measuring 19 feet wide by 44 feet deep. The foundation
is of stone as are the watertable and window sills. Decorative brick banding connects brick
segmental arch window hoods across the first and second stories of the main facade. This
building harmonizes well with other neighborhood buildings and is presently being
renovated.
4-35
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.18
House (25 Bissell Lane)
N. 1/2 of the E. 1/2 of City Lot 587
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 6
Architectural: (A1=5) + (A2=4) + (A3=4) = 13
Combined Rating = 19 (Group 2)
Source: City Assessment Record
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
City Directories (1899-1900, 1921-1922)
HISTORY
City assessment records give an estimated date of construction for this house of 1890.
Sanborn maps of 1884 and 1891 support this estimate showing that the house was
constructed sometime between those dates. In 1900, James Allen was listed in the city
directory as the resident of this house, and Bennett Bard was listed as occupying the house
in 1921. Both men were classified occupationally as laborers. In 1884, twelve such alley
houses existed on the alley (now Bissell Lane) located between Bluff and Locust Streets and
Dodge and Jones Streets. Today, three of these residences remain (see RESOURCE SITE
NOS' 4.19 and 4.20).
ARCH ITECTURE
This 2-story frame residence measures 14 feet wide by 29 feet deep. When this house was
built it probably cost from 200 to 400 dollars. In plan this house, as with other houses of
this type, consists of two rooms on each floor. The wide window architraves distinguish this
residence from the other alley houses in the tract.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=4) + (H3=3) = 7
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 6
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
4 37
4 —36
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-8
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
City Directories (1899-1900, 1921-1922)
4-38
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.19
House (19 Bissell Lane)
Sub'n of City Lot 586, Lot 2
HISTORY
This house is assumed to have been built in 1870 based on information presented in the
"Annual Building Summary" of that year. This house was built by James Allen the same
year he built his own home (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.9). By 1891 Allen had built five
similar working class houses on City Lot 586 which he rented to others. In 1900, Philip
McCabe, a laborer, resided in this alley house. The other four rental houses on City Lot 586
have been demolished.
ARCHITECTURE
Although somewhat older, this alley house is very similar to the house at 25 Bissell Lane
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.18). In plan the house measures 14 feet wide by 26 feet deep.
The foundation of the house is stone.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 11
(H1=0) + (H2=4) + (H3=3) = 7
(A1=0) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 4
(Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-9
Dubuque Daily Times (December 18, 1870)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
City Directory (1921-1922)
4 —39
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.20
House (28 Bissell Lane)
W. 36'-2" of the N 1/2 of City Lot 574
HISTORY
This house was built sometime before 1884. In 1900, Bernard J. Duffy, a plasterer, lived in
this house. Like the other two alley houses (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.18 and 4.19) this
house appears to have been rental, working class housing throughout its existence.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is a two-story frame measuring 16 feet by 24 feet with a one-story 12-foot by
10-foot addition to the rear. The foundation of the house is stone and the roof covering is
metal.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 11
(H1=0) + (H2=4) + (H3=3) = 7
(A1=0) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 4
(Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-22
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
City Directory (1899-1900)
4 — 40
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.21
Thomas A. McAndrews House (314 Jones Street)
W. 39'-3" of City Lot 571
HISTORY
The house was built for Patrick H. Halpin in 1879 at a cost of $2,000. Patrick Halpin came
to Dubuque in 1856 with his parents, Michael and Mary (Hehir) Halpin, at the age of six. At
the age of fifteen he began his business career as a clerk in the grocery store of P. T. Bronat.
Afterward he worked for John Dunn before opening his own grocery in 1868. In 1882
Halpin built a substantial two-story business block located on the southwest corner of
Locust and Jones Streets (RESOURCE NO. 4.22), which became a focal point of the
"Dublin" district.
In addition to his grocery business, Patrick Halpin served as a Director of the Dubuque
County Bank and was a stockholder in the Excellsior Brass Works. In 1890 he was selected
Clerk of the District Court. Later he became an important local Democratic politician and
ward boss for the predominantly Irish First Ward.
In 1879 Patrick Halpin married Mary A. Robison, daughter of James Robison (see
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.14). Upon Patrick Halpin's death in 1931 the family home was
inherited by his son, Sylvester.
ARCHITECTURE
The two-story red brick house possesses several features reminiscent of the Greek Revival
style, including gable -fronted orientation, symmetrical fenestration and bulls -eye gable
window. However, the paired cornice brackets, arched stone lintels and dormer defy this
4-41
residence being classified as pure Greek Revival architecture.
In plan the house is L-shaped with the 'L' projecting from the southeast corner of the
structure (not shown in photograph). Although this house may be described as vernacular in
style, the borrowing of details from academic styles would suggest the influence of either an
architect or master craftsman.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=4) + (H2=3) + (H3=4) = 11
Architectural: (A1=3) + (A2=4) + (A3=4) = 11
Combined Rating = 22 (Group 2)
Source: Portrait and Biographical Record of Dubuque, Jones and Clayton Counties
(Chicago: Chapman Publishing Co., 1894)
Dubuque Daily Times (Nov. 16, 1879)
City Assessment Records
two
1.1
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.22
Hobart Sales and Service/Happy Hour Tavern (53-55 Locust Street)
E. 97' of City Lot 571
HISTORY
The commercial building located on the southwest corner of Locust and Jones Streets was
erected in 1882 to house the grocery business of Patrick H. Halpin. Besides being a
prosperous businessman, Halpin became an important First Ward and city politician (see
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.21). Since 1882 several grocery and tavern businesses have
occupied the first floor of the building, while the second floor has been rented out as
apartments.
ARCHITECTURE
The two-story brick building measures 43 feet wide by 62 feet deep. The first story is
occupied by two businesses while the second story serves as apartments. The most
distinctive feature of the building is its cornice. Buildings with similar cornice treatment are
located on Central Avenue between Fourth and Fifth Streets (RESOURCE SITE NO. 7.17)
and between Fifteenth and Sixteenth Streets. All three buildings were erected during the
1880's and were most likely the work of the same local architect. The shamrock imprints on
the first story pilasters and second story name plaque makes this the primary historical
edifice of the area of Dubuque once called Dublin. The fact that the building has suffered
very little alteration further enhances its importance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=5) + (H2=5) + (H3=4) = 14
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=4) + (A3=5) = 13
Combined Rating = 27 (Group 1)
Source: City Assessment Records
Portrait and Biographical Record of Dubuque, Jones and Clayton Counties
(Chicago: Chapman Publishing Company, 1894)
4-44
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.23
House (47 Locust Street)
N. 21' of the N 1/2 of City Lot 572
HISTORY
This house is one of a group of four identical working class cottages erected sometime
before 1879 (see also RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.24, 4.25 and 4.26). The "Annual Building
Summary" of that year reported that Michael Halpin spent 1000 dollars to improve four
houses on South Locust below Jones Street. Michael Halpin purchased the property on
which these houses are located for 1500 dollars in 1876 at a sheriff's sale. Possibly, these
four houses may date from as early as 1856. In February of that year John Blake purchased
City Lot 572 for 500 dollars. Two months later he sold the property to Richard Cox for
2000 dollars, and in May, Richard Cox sold the property for 2500 dollars. This rapid rise in
property value may indicate that the houses were constructed at this time. However, since
1856 marked the beginning of the first big building boom in Dubuque inflation and
speculation may have accounted for this rise in land value.
Throughout its history this house has served as a residence for working class families. In
1900, the house was occupied by John J. Ryan, a painter, who was also listed as the resident
of this house in 1921. Before the street numbering change in 1920, the address of this house
was 99 South Locust.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is of 2-story frame construction with gable -fronted orientation. The dimension of
the house are 16 feet wide by 24 feet deep with a 14-foot by 8-foot frame addition to the
4-45
rear. The house foundation is stone. With minor variations this house is identical to the
other three houses of the group located between 41 and 47 Locust Street (see also
RESOURCE SITES 4.24, 4.25 and 4.26).
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 7
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-30
Dubuque Daily Times (November 16, 1879)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directories (1899-1900, 1921-1922)
4-46
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.24
House (45 Locust Street)
S. 21' of the N 1/2 of City Lot 572
HISTORY
Before the street numbering change the address of this house was 103 South Locust. In
1900 the occupant of the house was Frank Hipman, a butcher. This house is one of four
similar units built on City Lot 572 sometime before 1880. (For additional history see
RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.23, 4.25 and 4.26)
ARCH ITECTURE
This house is one of four similar working class cottages located between 41 and 47 Locust
Street (see also RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.23, 4.25 and 4.26).
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 7
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-29
Dubuque Daily Times (November 16, 1879)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1899-1900)
4-47
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.25
House (43 Locust Street)
N. 21' of the S 1/2 of City Lot 572
HISTORY
Before the street numbering change in 1920, the address of this house was 107 South
Locust Street. In 1880 the occupant of this house was Michael Mahony, a junk dealer. The
1899-1900 city directory listed three individuals as residing at 107 South Locust: Theodore
Stierman, who worked for B. F. Richardson (shoe manufacturer); James O'Brien, a
quarryman; and Edward L. Hall, a switchman. This house is one of four similar units built
on City Lot 572 sometime before 1880. (For additional history see RESOURCE SITE NOS.
4.23, 4.24 and 4.26).
ARCHITECTURE
This house is one of four similar working class cottages located between 41 and 47 Locust
Street (see also RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.23, 4.24 and 4.26).
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 7
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-28
Dubuque Daily Times (November 16, 1879
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directories (1880, 1899-1900)
4-48
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.26
House (41 Locust Street)
S. 21' of the S 1/2 of City Lot 572
HISTORY
Before the street numbering change in 1920 the address of this house was 111 South Locust
Street. In 1900 the occupant of the house was Frank Seeley, a teamster for Mulgrew and
Philips, a wood, coal and brick company. This house is one of four similar units built on
City Lot 572 sometime before 1880. (For additional history see RESOURCE SITE NOS.
4.23, 4.24 and 4.25).
ARCHITECTURE
This house is one of four similar working class cottages located between 41 and 47 Locust
Street (see also RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.23, 4.24 and 4.25).
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 7
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-17
Dubuque Daily Times (November 16, 1879)
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1899-1900)
4-49
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.27
Double House (37-39 Locust Street)
N. 40' of City Lot 573
HISTORY
City assessment records indicate that this double house was built in 1896. Land title records
indicate that the house was built for James Breslin, who upon his death in 1897 willed the
property to his son, Hugh, and daughter, Mary. James Breslin had also owned the meat
market to the south of the double house (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.28) where his widow
and children continued to live while they obtained rent from the double house. In 1900 the
occupants of the double house were Michael Kirk, a stone mason, and Peter R. Martin, a
machinist at A. A. Cooper's wagon works. In 1905 the double house was sold to Emma
Clemens, wife of Henry D. Clemens (see RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.16).
ARCHITECTURE
This 2 1/2-story, T-plan, brick double house consists of two identical mirror image L-shaped
units. The exterior dimensions of each unit are 17 feet wide by 44 feet deep. Indicative of
late 19th-century Dubuque architecture this building is devoid of ornament. Earlier double
houses usually possessed inscribed stone window and door hoods. Distinctive features of this
building are the central dormer, full front single story veranda, and the paired, symmetrical
fenestration of the main facade.
4-50
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 6
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=4) + (A3=4) = 12
Combined Rating = 18 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Records, 3-16-6-25 and 3-16-6-16
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directory (1899-1900)
4-51
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.28
Bridge Lounge and Restaurant (31-35 Locust Street)
S. 26' of City Lot 573 and City Lot 574A
HISTORY
The restaurant portion of the establishment is located in what the 1884 Sanborn Map shows
was a saloon with apartments on the second floor. In 1891 the building served as a meat
market with the James Breslin family residing on the second floor (see RESOURCE SITE
NO. 4.27). After Breslin's death in 1897, the meat market was taken over by J. Beacon
while the Breslin family continued to live on the second floor. The southern portion of the
present business was built in 1954.
ARCHITECTURE
The southern, one-story portion of this establishment is of concrete block construction and
is of no architectural importance. The northern, two-story portion is of brick construction
with a stone foundation. This building dates from about 1880 and is rectangular in shape
measuring 22 feet wide by 42 feet deep. Two concrete block additions have been attached
to this older building and the front of the first story has been altered to provide continuity
with the new building to the south. The second story facade, though, has remained
unalterred. The only distinctive feature of this building is the corbelled brick cornice.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=2) + (H3=1) = 4
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=1) + (A3=1) = 3
Combined Rating = 7 (Group 4) all
4-52
Sources: City Assessment Records, 3-16-6-23 and 3-16-6-24
City Directories (1880, 1899-1900)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
4-53
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.29
Double Tenement (27-29 Locust Street)
S 1/2 and E. 100'-1" of the N 1/2 of City Lot 574
HISTORY
This double tenement was built sometime between 1884 and 1891. Before the street
numbering change in 1920 the address of this building was 135-137 South Locust Street.
From 1880 to 1914 this property was owned by Michael Halpin, who had a grocery store at
157 South Locust Street (non -extant) and lived at 167 South Locust Street (non -extant).
Michael Halpin also owned the four working class cottages between 41 and 47 South Locust
Street (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.23 thru 4.26). In 1900, John S. Murphy, editor of the
Dubuque Telegraph, resided in the north half of this building. Murphy became well known
statewide as a political figure, although he never held any elective office. He was also a close
associate of William Jennings Bryan. By 1911 he had moved to 394 Bluff Street.
ARCHITECTURE
In plan each side of the tenement consists of an 18-foot wide by 26-foot deep main space
with 12-foot by 12-foot 'L's' attached to the rear of each unit. Two one-story frame
additions have also been attached to the rear of the southern half of the building. This
building is very similar to another double tenement located at 22-24 Bluff Street
(RESOURCE SITE 4.11). The integrity of the building is good, excepting the loss of the
one-story veranda which had extended across the front of the building.
4 — 54
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=4) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 10
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=4) = 7
Combined Rating = 17 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Records, 3-16-6-20 and 3-16-6-21
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
Franklin T. Oldt and P. J. Quigley, eds.,History of Dubuque County, Iowa
(Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association, 1911)
City Directory (1889-1890, 1899-1900)
4-55
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.30
Julie E. O'Brien House (19 Locust Street)
Sub'n 2 of City Lot 575, Lot 1
HISTORY
City assessment records give 1856 as the date of construction for this house. At that time
Catherine Edwards owned the property. In 1865, Catherine Edwards leased the property to
Michael Ahern, who in 1873 purchased the property. Michael Ahern worked for C. W.
Robinson's lumber yard. Three other buildings used to also occupy this site.
ARCHITECTURE
Architecturally, the house appears to date more from the 1870's than 1850's. The
gable -fronted orientation, symmetrical organization of the front and rear fenestration, and
corbelled brick chimney are features which are found in many other residential structures in
the area known to have been built during the 1870's. Excepting the front metal awning and
disintegration of the south chimney, both the physical and architectural integrity of this
house are very good. The overall design quality of the house also is among the best of the
survey tract.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=4) + (H3=4) = 9
Architectural: (A1=5) + (A2=4) + (A3=5) = 14
Combined Rating = 23 (Group 2)
4 —56
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-17
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company, 1891)
City Directories (1865, 1870-71, 1889-1890, 1899-1900)
4-57
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.31
Nicholas M. Sutton House (9 Locust Street)
City Lot 576A
HISTORY
City assessment records give 1916 as the date of construction of this house. The 1921-22
city directory indicates that Nicholas Sutton has owned the property from that date to the
present.
ARCHITECTURE
Although the facade organization and building orientation is the same as that of houses
dating from the 1870's, the frame window architraves with drip head moldings and fish scale
gable shingles are architectural details which date from around the turn -of -the century and
later. Many houses of this type are found in Survey Tract No. 11, an area developed
primarily after 1900.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=2) = 3
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=1) + (A3=2) = 4
Combined Rating = 7 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-6-14
City Directories (1921-1922, 1977)
4-58
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.32
Mexican Imports (30 Locust Street)
West prt. of City Lot 555
HISTORY
This business is located in a converted service station. Neither the building nor its past or
present occupants are of any historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
The use of procelain enamel wall panels dates the building from the 1950's. This building is
of no architectural importance, and in fact, detracts significantly from the historical high
density residential building pattern which previously characterized the area.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 0
(H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
(A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
(Group 4)
Sources: City Directory (1977)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
4-59
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.33
Ed's Welding and Repair Service (27 Harrison Street)
East prt. of City Lot 555
HISTORY
This building is of no historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
This one-story building is of masonry tile construction and appears to date from about
1920. Architecturally, this building detracts significantly from the surrounding environment
and is out of character with both Tract No. 4 and Tract No. 5, which abuts to the east.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) ± (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Directory (1977)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
4-60
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.34
Dairy Queen Drive -In (36 Locust Street)
City Lot 556
HISTORY
Attached to the rear of this establishment is a two-story frame residence which dates from
sometime after 1909. Neither the store nor house appear to be of any historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
Neither the store nor attached house are of any architectural importance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 0
(H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
(A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
(Group 4)
Sources: City Directory (1977)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
4-61
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.35
David Kleiner's Auto Body Shop (55 Harrison Street)
South prt. of City Lot 558
HISTORY
This 1950's vintage bui►ding is of no historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
The building is a two-story concrete block structure and is of no architectural significance.
Like the other buildings on this block, this building and the large amount of paving
surrounding it contrast sharply with the dense residential building pattern which
characterized the block bounded by Dodge, Harrison, Jones and Locust Streets during the
early twentieth-century.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Directory (1977)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
4-62
ova
'To
pis
11*
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.36
Dunne Conoco Service Station (54 Locust Street)
City Lot 559
HISTORY
This service station, which appears to date from the 1950's, is of no historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
As with the four other buildings presently occupying the block bounded by Dodge,
Harrison, Jones and Locust Streets, this automobile oriented business violates the historical
residential character of the neighborhood.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Directory (1977)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
4-63
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.37
House (301 Jones Street)
Sub'n 2 of City Lot 569, Lot 2 and Sub'n 2 of City Lot 570, Lot 2
HISTORY
City assessment records state that this house was built in 1920. Land title records indicate
that one year previous the property was resubdivided by Voelker Realty Company.
Previously, this site had been occupied by the four-story warehouse and office building of
the Chamberlain (Norwegian) Plow Company, which moved to new facilities on Main south
of Jones Street sometime between 1884 and 1891. The vacated Chamberlain warehouse was
later occupied until 1917 by the Beatrice Creamery Company.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is a 1 3/4-story bungalow. In plan the house measures 26 feet wide by 29 feet
deep with a 12-foot by 6-foot rear 'L' and 8-foot deep open porch across the front. The
window treatment in this house shows the influence of the Prairie School style.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 6
Architectural: (A1=3) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 10
Combined Rating = 16 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-12
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
City Directories (1881, 1889-1890, 1899-1900, 1913, 1918, 1921-1922)
4-64
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.38
Emma C. Thill House (305 Jones Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 569, Lot 1 and Sub'n 2 of City Lot 570
HISTORY
City assessment records give 1921 as the construction date for this house. Previously, this
site was occupied first by the Chamberlain (Norwegian) Plow Company, and later, the
Beatrice Creamery Company. The first occupant of this house was Edward Maher, who
worked for the Jackson Vinegar Company.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is one of a group of four bungalows located on the north side of Jones Street
between Locust and Bissell Lane (see RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.37, 4.39 and 4.40). All four
houses were constructed about 1920 by the Voelker Realty Company, which marketed
concrete block house designs through the Peer -Amid Cement Stone Company. This
particular concrete block house measures 24 feet wide by 28 feet deep with a 13'-6" by
10-foot rear addition and 7-foot deep open porch across the front. The three panel window
grouping in the second story dormer is a feature similar to that of the house at 301 Jones
Street (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.37).
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 6
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 9
Combined Rating = 15 (Group 3)
4-65
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-11
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
City Directories (1881, 1889-1890, 1899, 1900, 1913, 1918, 1921-1922)
1100
4-66
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.39
House (309 Jones Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 569, Lot 2 and City Lot 570, Lot 2
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this house was built in 1921. Previously, this site was
occupied by a one-story factory building, which the Chamberlain (Norwegian) Plow
Company occupied until about 1890, and which later served the John Ernsdorff Iron
Company. The resident of this house in 1921 was Louis Rotman, owner of the Dubuque
Auto Salvage Company, who was still reported as residing at this address in 1977.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is one of a group of four bungalows located on the north side of Jones Street
between Locust and Bissell Lane (see RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.37, 4.38 and 4.40). All four
houses were constructed about 1920 by the Voelker Realty Company, which marketed
concrete block house designs through the Peer -Amid Cement Stone Company. This
particular concrete block house measures 22 feet wide by 40 feet deep with a 10-foot by
7-foot rear `L' and 7-foot deep open porch across the front. Interesting details on this house
are the diamond glazing of the two dormer windows and urn shaped balusters supporting
the porch railing.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 8
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 9
Combined Rating = 17 (Group 3)
4-67
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-10
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
City Directories (1881, 1889-1890, 1899-1900, 1913, 1918, 1921, 1922)
4— 68
■
I m
nla
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.40
Mary E. Pfab House (313 Jones Street)
Sub'n 1 of City Lot 569, Lot 1 and Sub'n 1 of City Lot 570, Lot 1
HISTORY
City assessment records estimate the date of construction for this house as 1920. Previously,
this site was occupied by a one-story factory building, which the Chamberlain (Norwegian)
Plow Company occupied until about 1890, and which later served the John Ernsdorff Iron
Company. The resident of this house in 1921 was Guy A. McLaughlin, superintendent of
the Times Journal newspaper.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is one of a group of four bungalows located on the north side of Jones Street
between Locust and Bissell Lane (see RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.37, 4.38 and 4.39). All four
houses were constructed about 1920 by the Voelker Realty Company, which marketed
concrete block house designs through the Peer -Amid Cement Stone Company. This
particular concrete block house measures 24 feet wide by 40 feet deep with a 21-foot by
6-foot deep open front porch.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 6
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 9
Combined Rating = 15 (Group 3)
4-69
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-9
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
City Directories (1881, 1889-1890, 1899-1900, 1913, 1918, 1921-1922)
4-70
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.41
House (323 Jones Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 591, Lot 1
HISTORY
City assessment records report that this house was constructed in 1924. At that time and
until 1939 the property was owned by Charles G. Zimpfer, who lived across the street at
334 Jones Street (RESOURCE NO. 4.15). This house appears to be of no historical
significance.
ARCH ITECTURE
The house is a bungalow of masonry tile construction. The plan the house measures 24 feet
wide by 26 feet in length with frame additions at both the east and west ends. This house is
in scale with the remainder of the block, however, its orientation and use of materials is
unusual for the area.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=1) + (H3=1) = 2
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=1) + (A3=2) = 4
Combined Rating = 6 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-8A
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
4-71
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.42
House (44 Bluff Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 591, Lot 2
HISTORY
Although city assessment records estimate the construction date of this house as 1890, an
1884 Sanborn insurance map shows the house already existed at that date. Before the street
numbering change in 1920 the address of this house was 34 Bluff Street in 1884 and 32
Bluff Street in 1841. The occupants of the house in 1880 were Annie Campbell, Mary
Campbell and James Barber, a laborer. Bridget Campbell was the owner of record at that
time. Also, both Mary and Annie Campbell were listed as seamstresses, and the 1884
Sanborn map indicated the house served as a dress shop at that time. In 1921, the city
directory indicated that Henry Williams had a grocery business in the building at that time.
ARCHITECTURE
The building is a simple rectangular 2-story frame structure with enclosed 2-story rear
porch. The dimensions of the building are 22 feet wide by 30 feet deep. The porch extends
the depth of the house 12 feet. Distinctive features of this house are the round topped gable
window and arched hood over the main entrance. The central doorway is also a departure
from the norm of the area, which is an assymmetrical door placement.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 8
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 7
Combined Rating = 15 (Group 3)
4 —72
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-8
Dubuque, Iowa (New York; The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
City Directories (1880, 1921 1922)
4 - 73
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.43
Lucille G. Hahn House (48 Bluff Street)
S. 22'-6" of City Lot 592
HISTORY
An 1884 Sanborn insurance map shows this house was built sometime before that date. In
1870, William Burke sold the south 22'-6" of City Lot 592 to Bridget Campbell. The
subdivision of the lot in this manner suggests that the house probably already existed at that
time. In 1921 the occupants of this house were Mrs. Charlotte Harry and Fred G. Becker, a
carver for the Schulte Cut Stone Company. James J. McFarland, a truckman for the Hook
and Ladder Company, was renting the house at the turn -of -the -century, and P. J. Duggan
resided there in 1880. None of the known occupants of this house appear to be of any
historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is a plain, 1 3/4-story, rectangular, brick structure built on a stone foundation.
The house measures 18 feet wide by 26 feet deep with a 17-foot by 12-foot one-story frame
addition in the rear and enclosed frame porch in front. The use of soldier arches to span
window opernings is an unusual feature. Most other brick houses in the area employ either
stone or rowlock window arches to span door and window openings.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=2) + (H3=4) = 7
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=3) + (A3=3) = 7
Combined Rating = 14 (Group 3)
4-74
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-7
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
City Directories (1880, 1899-1900, 1921-1922)
4-75
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.44
Double Tenement (50-52 Bluff)
Middle 30'-6" of City Lot 592
HISTORY
In 1872 William J. Burns purchased the north ,-6" of This double tenement City Lot 592 wras moslikely
om James P.
Donahue, and he continued as the owner until 1914. ublished in the Dubuque Daily
built in 1879 for that year the Annual Building Summary" pf Street
Times listed William J. Burns as having erected a double listed as 2000 dollaes. Int1900 the occuhouse on fpants of
near Jones. The value of the building was
the building were Michael Ahearn, an engineer withJoseph
Hunta of Midlandm. Lwther's fChem cal Clompa y,
Patrick Connolly. Mrs. Mary Driscoll and Jos p
lived at 50 and 52 Bluff Street, respectively, in 1921.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 7
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 6
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Records, 3-16-3-5 and 3-16-3-6
Dubuque Daily Times (November 16, 1879)
City Directories (1889, 1899-1900, 1921-1922)
ARCHITECTURE
Each half of the original building measured 14 feet wide by 28 feet deep. Subsequently,
one-story brick and frame additions have been attached thoodsrear
the secondunit.
toDistandinctive
the
features of this building are the projecting with
bracketted cornice. The shape and detailing of this building contrast sharply
neighboring buildings.
4 —77
4-76
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.45
John Wolff House (54 Bluff Street)
N. 22' of City Lot 592
HISTORY
This house was built sometime previous to 1884. The owner of the property at the time the
owned the
house was most likely constructed
av d Daley,was
Burns,
a conduct r forthe Illino� Central Railproperty
1872 to 1893. In 1900, David
this house. Mrs. Mary McFarland was living at 54 Bluff Street in 1921.
ARCH ITECTURE
The orientation and facade organization of this house are typical of much of the local
residential architecture of the 1860's through the 1880's. The distinctive features of this
particular dwelling are the bulls -eye gable window and tuscan porch columns.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=3) + (H3=4) = 8
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=4) + (A3=4) = 12
Combined Rating = 20 (Group 2)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-4
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
City Directories (1880, 1899-1900, 1921-1922)
4-78
•
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.46
Row House Group (56-58-60 Bluff Street)
City Lot 593
HISTORY
The subdivision of this lot in 1872 and the subsequent sale of Tots would indicate a
construction date for the three row houses of around 1875. In 1880 the occupants of these
houses were James Hannon (56 Bluff Street), a janitor; Thomas S. Dodge (58 Bluff Street),
an engineer; and James O'Neill (60 Bluff Street), a blacksmith. In 1900, James Hannon, the
janitor for Franklin School, still lived at 56 Bluff Street. The 1900 occupant for 58 Bluff
Street was John Sullivan, a laborer, and Henry Cosgrove, a grocery clerk, was living at 60
Bluff Street.
ARCHITECTURE
All three units are similar, however, in reality 58 and 60 Bluff Street comprise a double
house while 56 Bluff is an independent unit. In plan the double house units measure 17 feet
wide while the unit at 56 Bluff measures only 13'-6" wide. All of the units are 24 feet deep,
minus additions. All three units also are built on stone foundations and have stone sills and
lintels.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=2) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=2) = 7
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
4-79
Sources: City Assessment Records, 3-16-3-3, 3-16-3-2 and 3-16-3-1
Land Title Abstract (Abeln Abstract Company)
City Directories (1880, 1899-1900)
4-80
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.47
Celia Bohan House (350 W. First Street)
Sub'n 1 of City Lot 594, Lot 1 and Sub'n 2 of 1 of City Lot 594, Lot 2
HISTORY
This house was built for Mrs. Margaret Bunsworth in 1876 at a cost of 500 dollars. In 1900
Margaret Bunsworth was still living in the house. Charles J. Carroll, a superintendent at Carr,
Ryder and Adams, was listed as the occupant of 350 W. First Street in the 1921-1922 city
directory.
ARCHITECTURE
This two-story brick house is devoid of ornament and undistinguished in composition and
form. In plan the house measures 14 feet wide by 36 feet in length. The house has no
additions. Its foundation is stone. In use of materials and scale it is supportive of the
neighborhood's 1870's integrity.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 7
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=1) + (A3=4) = 6
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-21
Dubuque Daily Times (December 2, 1876)
City Directories (1899-1900, 1921-1922)
4-81
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.48
House (348 West First Street)
Sub'n 2 of 1 of City Lot 594, Lot 1
HISTORY
ichael
This house was built sometime before
ore 1884.
a 1900
0erhwho ran her business house was s by outofthe
Hall, a blacksmith, and Mrs. E.
house. Mrs. Hannah Hyde was living in this house in 1921.
ARCHITECTURE
This house is a simple 2-story brick rectangle which measures 16 feet wide by 26 feet deep.
The only distinctive feature of this house is the six -over -six windows. In scale, use of
materials and composition this house is consistent with the remainder of the tract.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
(H1=1) + (H2=3) + (H3=3) = 7
(A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 9
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 16 (Group 3)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-20 PublishingCompany, 1884)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map
City Directories (1899-1900, 1921-1922)
4 — 82
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.49
House (344 West First Street)
Sub'n 2 of 2 of City Lot 594, Lot 2
HISTORY
This house was built sometime before 1884. In 1900, Angus C. McKinnon, an engineer, was
the house's occupant, and Lawrence Daily resided at this adress in 1921.
ARCHITECTURE
The house is one-story and of frame construction. The west wing of the house is 14 feet
wide by 24 feet deep, and the east wing is 12 feet wide by 18 feet deep. The foundation of
the house is stone. Although of the same age as other houses in the area, this house is out of
scale and varies significantly in form and composition from other houses in the survey tract.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 5
(H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=1) = 3
(A1=0) + (A2=1) + (A3=1) = 2
(Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-19
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
City Directories (1899-1900, 1921-1922)
4-83
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.50
James Field House (340 West First Street)
Sub'n 2 of City Lot 594 and Sub'n 2 of 2 of City Lot 594
HISTORY
City assessment records give 1896 as the date of construction of this house. This date is
ant of this
supported by Sanborn maps °rT1891 1921doccu09. In pant ofthehouse wathe pMart n Hackney, was
Lawrence W. Daley, a teamster.
worked for Swift & Company.
ARCHITECTURE
This 2-story frame dwelling is architecturally undistinguished. Its facade composition is
similar to other dwellings in the area, but on the other hand, it is somewhat out of scale
with the buildings in the immediate vicinity. In plan the house is L-shaped measuring 20 feet
across the front and 36 feet deep. The foundation of the house is stone.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=1) + (H3=1) = 3
Architectural: (A1=1) + (A2=1) + (A3=2) = 4
Combined Rating = 7 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-18
City Directories (1899-1900, 1921-1922)
4-84
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.51
Hartig Drug Company, Store No. 2 (97 Locust Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 567, Lot 2 and 3 and N. 5' of Lot 1
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this building was constructed in 1948. Previously, this
site had been occupied by several two- and three-story commercial buildings, which in 1891
housed a grocery store, a saloon, a boarding house and a cobblers shop.
ARCHITECTURE
This new building constitutes a boundary between the older, residential Bluff Street and
Locust Street which has experienced extensive commercial redevelopment during the past
thirty years. This building is constructed of tan brick and measures 48 feet wide by 110 feet
deep with a cut away portion in the southwest corner.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-16
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
4 — 85
RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.52
Artistic Cleaners (83 Locust Street)
S. 50' of City Lot 568
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this building was constructed in 1964. Previously, the
site was occupied by a 2-story dwelling and saloon.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is a concrete block structure. The dimensions of the building are 34 feet wide
by 120 feet deep. As with the building to the north (RESOURCE SITE NO. 4.51) this
building marks the boundary between the pre-1900 residential area on Bluff Street and
recent automobile oriented commercial development on Locust.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: ( ) (
H1=0 + H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + ( A3=0 ) = 0
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-16-3-13
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
4-86
4.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
HISTORY
Survey Tract No. 4 comprises that area of the city which historically has been identified as
the heart of the Irish First Ward. Old time city residents speak of the area as Dublin. Early
city histories describe the area as being a slum consisting primarily of frame and tar paper
shanties, and these descriptions are confirmed by early photographs of the area.
By 1880, though, more substantial brick houses began to replace the wood shanties. Most of
these second generation buildings, and a few of the first generation buildings, remain today.
The historical integrity of Bluff Street is particularly high with only one intusion breaking
the continuing of the area.
Nevertheless, Survey Tract No. 4 should not be considered to constitute a historic district in
and of itself. Rather this area may more appropriately be viewed as part of a larger district
which centers around St. Raphael's Cathedral, which is located one block north of the tract
at Second and Bluff Streets. This larger district would most likely qualify for the National
Register of Historic Places.
ARCHITECTURE
Excepting the half block bounded by Locust, Jones, Harrison and Dodge Streets, the survey
tract is predominantly residential in character consisting mostly of two-story row houses
and double houses. Most of these residential structures are of brick construction and of
vernacular style, although several do exhibit Greek Revival characteristics (see RESOURCE
SITE NOS. 4.14, 4.21, 4.30 and 4.45).
Of particular distinction are the number and variety of double houses in the survey tract
(see RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.4, 4.7, 4.11, 4.17, 4.27, 4.29 and 4.44). Also, of interest is a
grouping of four identical two-story frame cottages (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.23 thru
4.26), located on Locust Street, which were most likely built during the 1870's, and the
house group which comprises the east side of Bluff Street from Jones Street to First Street.
All of these houses (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 4.42 thru 4.47) date from before 1884.
Due to the age, design quality, and high architectural integrity of the buildings in this survey
tract most of these resource sites would probably qualify for the National Register of
Historic Places as integral elements of an architectural district.
4-87
JONES STREET WEST OF LOCUST STREET
•
EAST SIDE BLUFF STREET BETWEEN FIRST AND JONES STREETS
HOUSE GROUP 41-43-45-47 LOCUST STREET
BLUFF STREET NORTH OF FIRST STREET
EMMETT STREET WEST OF BLUFF STREET
4-89
4 - 88
•
•
SURVEY TRACT
MAIN & SHIELDS STREETS
(FIRST WARD MARKET DISTRICT)
o
tl
11
5.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
TRACT DESCRIPTION
Survey Tract No. 5 includes all buildings which face on Flatiron Park, plus the half block
bounded by Jones, Locust, First and Harrison Streets. An oblique aerial view of this tract is
presented in Figure 5.1, and the precise boundaries of the tract and the locations of the
twenty-three resource sites included in the tract are shown in Figure 5.2.
The boundaries of this tract have been selected so as to include the area which during the
city's early history constituted the First Ward Market r district. A market building was
actually located on the south end of what is now Flatiron Park. It was a 50-foot by 50-foot
square shaped one-story building constructed in 1857, and although the building only lasted
until about 1880, this area remained the principal warehouse and wholesale grocery district
of the city up until about 1960.
Architecturally, excepting the Bishop's Block (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.23), the buildings
surrounding Flatiron Park are similar in scale and composition. Most are constructed of red
brick and exhibit only a limited amount of ornamentation. Many of the buildings along the
east side of Main Street are first generation structures, while on the west side of the block
the buildings are the second and sometimes the third structure to have occupied the same
piece of land. The reason for this difference is that until about 1855 the east side of the
block on Main Street between First and Jones Streets was under water. Previous to 1855 the
west shore of the inner slough of the Mississippi River pretty much followed the alignment
of present day Shields Street.
Presently, the area remains principally a warehouse and light industrial district, however,
some buildings have been converted to commercial and office use. In addition, many of the
owners of property in the tract are members of the Fourth Street Neighborhood
Association, which is a group of merchants and landowners interested in the revitalization
and rehabilitation of the Fourth Street Elevator area and Main Street from Jones to Fourth
Streets. This group has developed plans for maintaining the historical character of the
buildings in the area, but except for the acquisition and installation of nineteenth century
cast iron lamp posts, no other capital improvements are planned until after completion of
Freeway 561.
TRACT HISTORY
According to Josiah Conzett, a life long resident of Dubuque, in his Recollections of People
and Events: Dubuque, Iowa, 1846-1890, the area between Main and Locust Streets south of
First Street was all mud holes and frog ponds up until 1855. While east of Main Street was
the inner slough of the Mississippi River. Thus building in this part of the city is not believed
to have commenced until 1857.
5-1
Shortly before this the Dubuque Harbor Company commenced filling the area east of Main
Street and platted town Tots as the Dubuque Harbor Company Addition. Further filling of
land east of Main Street was undertaken by the Dubuque and Sioux City Railroad, which in
1859 constructed a passenger depot on the southeast corner of Iowa and Jones Streets (the
site of the present Illinois Central and Gulf Station). The individuals associated with these
land filling operations were to become some of Dubuque's most prominent and successful
entrepreneurs. Some of those involved were H. L. Stout, Richard Bonson, Edward
Langworthy, and Platt Smith.
In 1857 a one-story brick building was constructed on the south end of the triangular piece
of land bounded by Main, West Main (Shields) and Jones Streets, now Flatiron Park.
Subsequently, this area was designated the First Ward Market by the City Council, and
although the market building was removed sometime between 1874 and 1884, this area of
the city remained the hub of Dubuque's wholesale grocery, produce and grain trade well
into the twentieth century.
One of the first grain dealers to locate in the area was the firm of Bush, Robison and
Company, which was located in the building now occupied by the A. J. Farber Company
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.17). Another early wholesaler of grain and feed was Wm. J.
Burns, who had his warehouse on Jones Street between West Main and Locust (RESOURCE
SITE NO. 5.1). The big wholesale grocery warehouses, though, did not locate in this area
until the 1880's. The three largest of these companies were the Marshall M. Walker
Company (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.14), the Schroeder -Kleine (RESOURCEGrocer SITE Company
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.15) and the John T. Hancock Company
NO.
5.16). Previous to relocating to this area, each of the companies had occupied buildings
further north of Main Street. One likely reason these companies moved to this area was the
close proximity to the freight house and shipping facilities of the Illinois Central Railroad
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 7.1).
Also, during the latter half of the nineteenth century a number of agriculture related
industries and commercial establishments occupied buildings in the area. In 1881 all four of
the city's agricultural implements dealers were located in this vicinity, and somewhat later
the city's only manufacturer of agricultural implements, the Norwegian Plow Works, located
on the site now occupied by Trausch Baking Company (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.11).
Another agriculture related enterprise located in the area was the Ede's Robe Tanning
Company (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.9). The Jackson Vinegar Company, McGhee Hatchery
and Farm Supply Store (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.5) and White Front Feed and Hatchery
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.17) are agriculture related businesses which located in this area
during the early part of the twentieth century.
Other major nineteenth century enterprises which once occupied buildings in Survey Tract
No. 5 were the C. L. Pritchard Buggy Top Manufacturing Company, and Dubuque Mattress
Manufacturing Company, the LangworthY and Adams Foundry, the John Ernsdorff Iron
antial
Company and International tlhe CVLtPritchard er ry. All of these Co Company occupied almostshalfre of the block
enterprises. For example,
5-2
>-
W\
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= 0
U Q
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FIGURE 5.1
5-3
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CC CC
Q
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en
FIGURE 5.1
'IJD
i
T
c\
u U ❑
r
■ gm aft MIN .tBIN .. all S__ea101
■
c_
0
HISTORICAL/ARCHITECTURAL SURVEY
Lc)
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0
f--
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FIGURE 5.2
5.2
5-4
■
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mu
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A
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i
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X
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RI "" MIME NMI lilt Nat ,N®IAMB M-�-
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FIGURE 5.2
5-4
east of Main between First and Jones Streets in 1880, and the John Ernsdorff Iron
Company and the International Harvester Company each had five -story warehouses located
on Main just south of Jones Street. The Dubuque Mattress Factory had a three story factory
where the Dohrn Transfer Company warehouse now is located, and the Langworthy and
Adams Foundry, which was the predecessor of the present Adams Company (RESOURCE
SITE NO. 7.32), was located just north of the Dubuque Mattress Factory.
Thus, during the nineteenth century and early part of the twentieth century many of the
city's important wholesale houses, as well as several substantial industrial plants, were
located in the area encompassed by Survey Tract No. 5. In the past thirty years, though,
many of these large warehouses have been subdivided into office and commercial space.
Also, the large warehouses of the John Ernsdorff Company and International Harvester, and
the Dubuque Mattress Factory complex have been demolished. Since 1960 the identity of
this area as the old First Ward Market and as the focus of grocery wholesaling has almost
totally disappeared.
Sources: C. C. Childs, History of Dubuque County, Iowa
(Chicago: Western Historical Company, 1880)
Josiah Conzett, Recollections of People and Events: Dubuque, Iowa, 1846-1890
(unpublished, Carnegie -Stout Public Library, Dubuque, Iowa)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce, 1911)
Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1874)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
Dubuque Daily Express and Herald (January 1, 1858)
Dubuque Daily Times (May 3, 1858)
5-5
5.2 RESOURCE SITES INVENTORY
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
Survey Tract No. 5 includes 23 resource sites. Twenty-two of the sites are buildings and the
remaining one is a small triangular green space known as Flatiron Park. The occupancy of
the buildings is about equally divided among commercial, industrial and warehousing
enterprises. Also, two of the larger old grocery warehouses had been converted to multiple
usage.
Of the 23 resource sites located in Survey Tract No. 5 five appear to be eligible for listing in
the National Register of Historic Places. The most prominent of these is the Bishop's Block
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.23) which was designed by a prominent local architect, F. D.
Hyde, and housed the largest wholesale grocery business in the city for over fifty years.
Another of these sites (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.9) was originally occupied the Ede's Robe
Tanning Company, which at one time was the largest tanner of hides in the United States
with branch factories in Omaha, St. Paul and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The third site is the
building now occupied by the A. J. Farber Company at 60 Main Street (RESOURCE SITE
NO. 5.17). This building was built by John D. Bush in 1878 to house his grain, feed and
wool business. In addition to this business Bush was also a successful real estate dealer and
prominent local politician, who served four terms on the city council and two terms as
mayor. The fourth site is Flatiron Park (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.13). This small triangular
piece of land was for over two decades the location of the city's First Ward Market, which
later became the city's hay market and the focus of the wholesale produce and grain trade in
the city for over half a century. The old M. M. Walker and Company wholesale grocery
warehouse (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.14) is the fifth site in the tract which probably
qualifies for the National Register. This building is historically significant primarily due to
its association with Marshall M. Walker, who besides founding the M. M. Walker Company
also was part owner of the Dubuque Times, an active promoter of local railroad ventures
and prominent local political and civic leader.
Buildings possessing secondary historical and/or architectural importance are Thompson's
Food Market (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.3), the Dohrn Transfer Company (RESOURCE
SITE NO. 5.7); Midland Laboratories (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.10), Jocille's Coiffures and
Wig Boutique (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.15), Farber and Sons Fruit and Bag Company
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.18), and the Main Hotel (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.22).
5-6
t
E
1
1
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.1
Converted Service Station (60 Locust Street)
City Lot 560
HISTORY
This former service station was built in 1953. It is presently owned by Robert Kehl, owner
and proprietor of Robert's Smorgastable (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.2), who uses it as a
warehouse and office. Previously, according to both the 1884 and 1909 Sanborn insurance
maps of the area, a two-story brick grocery store was located on the southwest corner of the
property and a two-story brick and stone feed warehouse was located on the southeast
corner of the property. The grocery was owned in 1890 by W. J. Burns, who was also a grain
dealer and probably owned the feed warehouse as well. Neither the building nor site are of
any historical importance.
ARCHITECTURE
The building possesses no distinctive qualities and as such is of no architectural importance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 0
(H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
(A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
(Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-17-16-9
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
City Directories (1884, 1899-1900)
5-7
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.2
Robert's Smorgastable (62 Locust Street)
S. 39' of City Lot 561
HISTORY
The older front portion of this building was constructed in 1931. Subsequently, two
additions have been attached to the rear and these probably date from about 1960.
Previously, according to Sanborn insurance maps from 1884 and 1909, this site was
occupied by two two-story dwellings and associated outbuildings. Neither the present
building nor the site appear to possess any historical significance.
ARCHITECTURE
This concrete block one-story building is of no architectural importance.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
(H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
(A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Sources: City Assessment Record, 3-17-16-8
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
5-8
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.3
Thompson's Food Market (250 First Street)
City Lots 564 & 565
HISTORY
This building originally consisted of four separate commercial establishments each of which
occupied an 18-foot wide first floor space with apartments on the second level. In 1884
these four stores were occupied by a meat market on the west end; Michael Lyon's saloon
next to that; then the barber shop of Charles Van Dyke and Frank Winters; and on the east
end M. R. Finn's Saloon. In 1891 the use of the store spaces was generally unchanged,
although proprietorship of the individual businesses had changed. Richard Cody converted
the meat market to a confectionery shop. Michael Lyon still ran his tavern. L. J. Rieck and
Gus Freeman took over the barber shop, and Joseph Lowry became proprietor of the saloon
which occupied the east end of the building. Because city directories do not list street
addresses prior to 1874, it is not possible to determine precisely what the usage of this
building was before that date. However, it does appear that since its construction sometime
before 1860, this building has been occupied continuously by grocery and other food
related businesses, plus saloons and barber shops, with apartments (often lived in by the
proprietors of the businesses below) occupying the second level. The Thompson Food
Market took over the entire first floor for its operations about 1959.
ARCH ITECTU RE
The first floor of this building was originally divided into four commercial spaces. Presently,
the Thompson Food Market occupies the entire first level. In plan the original portion of
the building measures 74 feet wide by 45 feet deep. The walls of the original building are
brick which have been covered with stucco. Two one-story concrete block additions have
been attached to the rear of the building. The first floor of the main facade also has been
extensively alterred. The second floor of the main facade, though, appears to maintain its
historical architectural integrity. Other than the band of dentils across the cornice the
building is unadorned, and its overall appearance is quite austere.
5-9
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=3) + (H2=4) + (H3=2) = 9
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2-2) + (A3=2) = 6
Combined Rating = 15 (Group 3)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-16-2
City Directories (1874, 1884, 1891, 1959)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
me
se
ION
5-10
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.4
Jocille's Fashion Corner/Weber Apartments (214 First Street)
City Lot 533 and N. 10' City Lot 534
HISTORY
This building, which has been recently remodeled, consists of three buildings which were
originally built sometime between 1865 and 1870. From 1865 to 1896 Robert Jess ran a
grocery, saloon and liquor business in the two buildings nearest the corner of First and Main
Streets. Afterward, J. P. Cooney and R. McCarthy ran a saloon on the premises. The third
building from the corner, and the western most portion of the present building, was built in
1870 by J. and P. Sullivan and housed their harness manufacturing business. Two other
buildings stood where the parking lot west of the building now is. They were the Chicago
House, a boarding house built about 1870 and run by Thomas and Catherine Sullivan until
1909, and a grocery store, run by John H. Carroll from about 1870 until around the
turn -of -the -century.
ARCHITECTURE
Within the past few years this building has been extensively alterred. As a result, its
architectural integrity has been almost totally lost. Furthermore, the nature of the exterior
modification is completely out of character with the surrounding buildings.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=3) + (H3=1) = 6
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 6 (Group 4)
Source:
City Assessment Record, 3-17-16-16
City Directories (1865, 1899-1900, 1906, 1911)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.5
Sweeney Ace Hardware (99 Main Street)
S. 42' of City Lot 534
H{STORY
This building was constructed about9nesseawhichinitially
have occupied this building have been
Joseph Motor Sales Company. Other bu
the Clark Motor Company, Dieterich and Ahrendt Auto Repair, and the McGhee Hatchery
and Farm Supply Store. The latter of these became McGhee Ace Hardware by 1965 and in
1967 Sweeney Ace Hardware, the current occupant. The building actually consists of two
ing
structures with the rear gable roofed
portion
1884 Sanbpossibly
orndating
map and that st ucOure ser's. A bveddas a
matching the rear portion is shown onan
livery for the Chicago House hotel (see RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.4) which began operation
about 1870.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is typical of 1920's commercial architecture. The overall design is plain and
functional. Other than the slightly raised triangular pediment, ornamentation is confined to
five raised brick panel borders with contrasting corner blocks.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
Architectural: (
Al=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 6
Combined Rating = 10 (Group 4)
5-12
ims
�M
raw
n
iA
A
�i
d
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-16-15
City Directories (1925, 1941, 1965, 1967)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
5-13
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.6
Microlite Incorporated (65 Main Street)
City Lots 535, 535A and 536
a
i
1
HISTORY
The present building was constructed about 1916 according to city assessment records.
Previous to that time the property served as the Peter Even Coal and Wood Yard. Between
1909 and 1921, though, Peter Even changed businesses as the 1921 city directory indiciates
that the building's initial occupant was the Peter Even and Son Auto Company. Subsequent
occupants of the building have been the Central Battery and Electric Company; Midland
Chemical Company, which used the building as a warehouse; and Johnnie's Sports Center.
Microlite has occupied the building for only about a year.
ARCHITECTURE
The arched roof and open front are typical of early automobile showrooms. In plan the
building measures 60 feet wide by about 110 feet deep. Raised brick bands and recessed
panels are the only design details found on this very architecturally pure and functional
building.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: ()
H1=0 + (H2=2) + (H3=2.) = 4
Architectural: (
Al=1) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 6
Combined Rating = 10 (Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-16-14
City Directories (1909, 1921, 1934, 1941, 1959)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
Jim
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.7
Dohrn Transfer Company (51-57 Main Street)
City Lots 537, 538 and 539
HISTORY
According to city assessment records the main building was constructed in 1941 and the
loading dock to the north, in 1951. The Chicago and Dubuque Motor Transfer Company
was the building's first occupant. Dohrn Transfer Company took over the premises in 1960.
Previous to 1941 the property was occupied by the Dubuque Implement Company, which
sold agricultural implements, and the Dubuque Mattress Company factory. The later of
these was a three story brick structure which dated from 1883. In 1891, the area occupied
by the loading dock was the site of the Langworthy-Adams Iron Works foundry, which was
the predecessor of the current Adams Company (RESOURCE SITE NO. 7.32), and the
Schrieber and Conchar Manufacturing Company machine shop. Earlier still, F. E. Robert's
iron foundry and the Taper Sleeve Pulley factory occupied the site in 1884.
ARCHITECTURE
The main facade of this building is randomly coursed limestone. This facade is
symmetrically arranged with the cornice rising to a slight peak over the central doorway.
Although unadorned the skillful balancing of solids and voids, and the random projection of
stones from the principal wall plane provide an overall pleasing appearance to this building.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 13
(H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
(A1=4) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 9
(Group 3)
5-15
5-14
-16-12
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-171961)
City Directories (1883, 1941, Publishing Company, 1884)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map 9
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
5-16
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.8
Office Building (45 Shields Street)
City Lot 539A
HISTORY
Four businesses are presently housed in this building: the Dubuque County Fair
Association, Dick Hennagin Agency, H. & J. Construct Company, and Hawkeye Security
Agency. City assessment records give 1970 as the building's date of construction. This date,
though, is suspect. Rather an extensive renovation of a much older building was probably
made in 1972. In that year 45 Shields Street was listed as vacant. Previous to that Sloan
Distributing Company had a beer warehouse at this address. Prior to 1941 the site was
occupied by a two-story brick building used by the Dubuque Mattress Company as a wire
room and for storage, which even earlier served as an agricultural implements warehouse. In
1891, P. McCullough had his agricultural implements business in the building.
ARCHITECTURE
Only the front and rear walls of this building are exposed. The front facade is of a glass and
metal curtain wail variety. Nothing about the architecture of this building is distinctive.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=1) + (H3=0) = 3
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 3 (Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-16-11
City Directories (1891, 1941, 1970, 1972)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
5-17
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.9
Linehan and Molo (41 Main Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 540, Lots 1 & 2
HISTORY
Linehan and Molo took over this building
from the Sloan Wholesale Grocery Distributing
le everage
mpany
Company in 1969. Previous to Sloan froomatheB until19 Oohoused
theToccupied the building. The building was built about 1900 and The founder of that company was David F. Ede. He
Ede's Robe Tanning Company.
started the company in 1895 east of the Illinois Central Railroad Station and near the
Witham Ryan and Son packing plant, a ready source of hides. This firm grew to be one of
the largest of its type in the country and established branch operations in Omaha, St. Paul
and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The Dubuque plant employed from 40 to 60 men. Before
1900 this property had been the site of Bush Brothers Planing Mill and Sash, Door and Blind
Factory.
The current occupant of the building is a descendant of one of Dub que'associatedoltfirms.
theis
company was founded by Bart E. Linehan, who duringandCompany the
Dunleith and Dubuque FerryC°mpanY, the original firm wa�kbown as HansenuuqStreet and became
Dubuque County Bank. Theog
Linehan and Molo in 1900. This company dealt in coal, salt, cement, steam and gas fittings,
electrical supplies, and owned the Star Electric Company.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is one if the more distinguished architectural eaures cornice t e area.d The wide
northeastern
along
appearance
12 windows and corbelled Thedcuttaway bcornner, recessed entrance, and stone half -story
appearance to this building.
base further enrich the building's aesthetic appeal.
5-18
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 24
(H1=5) + (H2=4) + (H3=4) = 13
(A1=4) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 11
(Group 2)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-16-10
Franklin T. Oldt and P. J. Quigley, History of Dubuque County, Iowa
(Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association, 1911)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce, 1911)
City Directories (1884, 1891, 1899-1900, 1941, 1969)
5-19
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.10
Midland Laboratories (210 Jones Street)
Sub'n of City Lot 541, Lots 1 & 2, City Lot 542; Sub'n 2 of City Lot 543, Lots 1 & 2
HISTORY
The Midland Laboratories building was constructed in190b8 on thess. sitePreof ewhnt at
had
been een
Nathaniel S. Andrew's Creamery and Dairy Supplies
Laboratories in 1908 was Lorenzo O. Hillyard and he built the company into one of the
largest disinfectant and germicide companies an tandhe UTe'ted afaxSCommun cat olnrSystems
besides
Midland, Wholesale Contractors Supply Comp Y
Incorporated also occupy space in the building.
ARCHITECTURE
Except for the use of contrasting white glazed brick to outline
and wintdowlang wnd oo I p eor rninare
this building is undistinguished. The cornice
unbroken.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
(H1=3) + (H2=3) + (113=3) = 9
(A1=1) + (A2=1) + (A3=2) = 4
(Group 3)
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 13
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-8-1
Franklin T. Oldt and P. J. Quigley, History of Dubuque County, Iowa
(Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association)
City Directories (1911, 1929, 1941)
5-20
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.11
Trausch Baking Company (25 Main Street)
Sub'n 1-1-3 of Dub. Harbor Co. Add'n, Lot 1, Blk 11; E. 2.-4" Shields St., Dub. Harbor
Co. Add'n, Lot 4, Blk 11; Sub'n 1-1-3 of Dub. Harbor Co. Add'n, Lot 2, Blk 11; Dub.
Harbor Co. Add'n, Lot 1, Blk 11; Sub'n 2 of Dub. Harbor Co. Add'n, Lots 1 & 2, Blk 11;
Sub'n 3 of Dub. Harbor Co. Add'n, Lot 2, Blk 11; Sub'n 2-1-3 of Dub. Harbor Co. Add'n,
Lots 1 & 2, Blk 11; Dub. Harbor Co. Add'n, Sub'n 5, Lot 1, Blk 11
HISTORY
The present building was constructed about 1930 to house the Trausch Baking Company,
which previously conducted a retail bakery business at 1130 Iowa Street. The officers of
the company then were John P. Trausch, Arthur Trausch and Wm. M. Clemens. Prior to
1930 the property was occupied by the Dietrich and Ahrendt auto body works and even
earlier this was the site of the Norwegian Plow Works, one of two agricultural implements
manufacturing companies founded by Wm. C. Chamberlain during the 1870's. Later James
Beach, who was also president of James Beach and Son Company (RESOURCE SITE NO.
2.21), took over as head of the firm.
Where the bakery thrift store and parking area on Jones Street are, was until 1925 the site
of the five -story John Ernsdorff Iron Company building. That company was a tool and
hardware jobber, which by 1921 had been taken over by Harry E. Tredway and eventually
merged into the present day Kretschmer-Tredway Company (RESOURCE SITE NO. 8.33).
Earlier the Railroad House hotel and saloon, a 2-1/2 story frame structure, occupied the
southwest corner of Main and Jones Streets.
ARCHITECTURE
Although this building consists of several additions the same materials and design motif has
5-21
been used throughout. The dominant features of the design are the regular alternating of
solid and void along the Main Street side of the building and the pointed battlements at the
corners of the building and at regular intervals along the Main Street facade. The use of tan
brick in Dubuque is unusual.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=1) + (H3=1) = 3
Architectural: (A1=2) + (A2=2) + (A3=2) = 6
Combined Rating = 9 (Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-9-1
C. Childs, History of Dubuque County, Iowa (Chicago: Western Historical
Company, 1880)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
City Directories (1899-1900, 1906, 1915, 1921, 1929)
5-22
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.12
Shive-Hattery and Associates, engineers (30 Main Street)
Sub'n of Dubuque Harbor Co. Add'n, W 1/2 Lot 1, Block 10
HISTORY
This building was constructed in 1916 to serve as an office for the Thomas J. Mulgrew
Company. That company had been organized in 1893 and was incorporated in 1904. By
1911 the company, which sold coal, ice, building materials, lime, fire clay, fire brick, and
sewer pipe, occupied four acres near Jones and Iowa Streets. More recently, in 1965 the
building was shared by the Mulgrew Oil Company and Cullen & Schlitz, consulting
engineers. After being vacant from 1970 to 1974, Shive-Hattery & Associates took over the
building.
Before construction of the present building this property had been occupied by a small,
one-story brick commercial building and a two-story frame hotel and restaurant. This hotel
was known at different times as the Southern Hotel and Smyth's Hotel. Just to the south of
this property used to stand a large, five -story International Harvester Company warehouse.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of two-story brick construction with stone foundation and tile hipped roof.
Elevations are symmetrically organized and fenestration is emphasized through the use of
stone lintels and sills. The cutaway northwest corner similarly adds emphasis to the
building's entrance. Although not known by any formal stylistic name, design features, such
as the hipped tile roof and stone trim, were commonly employed during the second and
third decades of the twentieth century as architects searched for an appropriate substitute
for the classical design details which previously dominated commercial and public
architecture.
5-23
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=2) + (H2=1) + (H3=3) = 6
Architectural: (A1=3) + (A2=2) + (A3=3) = 8
Combined Rating = 14 (Group 3)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-16-10-4 1974)
City Directories (1881, 1899-1900, 1916, 1965,
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce, 1911)
5-24
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.13
Flatiron Park (bet. Main, Shields and Jones Streets)
no legal description
HISTORY
The City Council of the City of Dubuque in May, 1858, established the First Ward Market
designating the triangular piece of land bounded by Main, West Main (Shields) and Jones
Streets as its location. To house the market two local builders, Messrs. Aubry and Guthrie,
constructed a one-story brick market house on the south end of this piece of land. This
market house measured 50 feet by 50 feet and cost the city $10,000.
Sometime between 1874 and 1884 the market building was demolished, but the land
remained a market area. The city scales were located here and the area became the official
city hay market. The city scales continued to be located here until at least 1916. However,
by that time the system of officially designated city markets had been abandoned and the
First Ward Market area had been converted into a park. Initially this park was known as
Phoenix Park. Furthermore, it is important to note that even after the official market
functions of the park ceased the surrounding area remained for many years the focus of
wholesale grocery, grain, and produce business in the city.
ARCHITECTURE
Flatiron Park is a small well landscaped passive green space which functions as the major
focus and organizing feature of the south Main Street area.
5-25
1
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=5) + (H2=4) + (H3=3) = 12
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=2) + (A3 =3) = 9
Combined Rating = 21 (Group 2)
Source: Dubuque Daily Express & Herald (January 1, 1858)
Dubuque Daily Times (May 3, 1858)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
City Directories (1892, 1916)
5-26
goo
d
REOURCE SITE NO. 5.14
Higley Chemical Company (40 Main Street)
A -One Schaller Movers (42 Main Street)
Dub. Harbor Company Add'n W 1/2 Lot 16, Blk 1 and ! 1/2 Lot 17, Bik 1
HISTORY
This building was constructed in 1894 for the M. M. Walker Company, one of Dubuque's
major grocery wholesale houses at that time. Marshall M. Walker founded this company in
1860 and was one of the city's pioneers in the oil, grain, produce and fruit business, which
he expanded to cover a market area as far west as Sioux City and into northern Minnesota.
Marshall Walker was also influential in the promotion of the Dubuque and Sioux City
Railroad and the Dubuque and Northwestern Railroad, was for a time part owner of the
Dubuque Times, served as Fourth Ward alderman, and was elected to many official posts in
civic and trade organizations during his lifetime.
After Marshall Walker's death in 1904, J. W. Hay took over as president of the company,
and he was succeeded by W. Schroeder. Subsequently, another wholesale grocery house with
which Schroeder was associated (see RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.15) took over the building.
This company was the Schroeder -Kleine Grocer Company which previously occupied the
building just to the north. After the Schroeder -Kleine Grocer Company went out of business
in 1941, Dubuque Wholesale Grocers took over the building and that company in 1959 was
replaced by the Higley Chemical Company. It should also be noted that during the 1950's
the portion of the building now occupied by A -One Schaller Movers housed the Murray Dr.
Pepper Bottling Company and Schlitz Distributing Company.
ARCHITECTURE
This building employs a combination masonry wall bearing and iron skeletal structural
system. By using this combination the architect was able to open the main facade to a much
greater extent that if he had designed a completely wall bearing building. Further variety has
been achieved by employing a different window treatment on each level of the east and
south elevations. However, by carrying the round arch window treatment across the third
level of the main facade a sense of ambiguity has been introduced as the result of trying to
5-27
superimpose both structural systems on the same wall plane.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
(H1=4) + (H2=5) + (H3=4) =
13
11
(A1=3) + (A2=4) + (A3=4) =
(Group 2)
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 24
Assessment Record, 3-17-10-10 1959)
Source: City 1894-95, 1915, 1921-22, 1941, 1952, 1959) 1909)
City Directories (f890 uq,
s of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Iowa
Insurance Map le eds., History of Dubuque County, Franklin T. Oldt ande dJH4torical� Association, 1911)
(Chicago: Goodsp
5-28
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.15
Jocille's Coiffures & Wig Boutique (44 Main Street)
Dubuque Insulation & Siding Company (48 Main Street)
Dub. Harbor Company Add'n, W 1/2 Lot 15, Blk 1;
W 1/2 Lot 14,BIk1;W 1/2Lot 13Blk1
HISTORY
This building was constructed about 1892 for the Schroeder -Kleine Grocer Company. The
president of this company was Frank N. Schroeder, who had started in the grocery business
in 1865 with W. H. Rumpf. By 1844 John H. Kleine joined the partnership and at that time
the firm occupied a store at 394 Main Street (RESOURCE SITE NO. 6.16). In 1892 the
firm incorporated and moved to South Main Street, which was then becoming the city's
wholesale grocery and produce district. In 1921 this company absorbed another large
wholesale grocery business, the M. M. Walker Company (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.14), and
occupied that company's building located adjacent and to the south of their own building.
In 1941 the Schroeder -Kleine Grocer Company went out of business. Since then this
building has had many different occupants including Terminal Warehouse and Storage
Company, Food Machinery and Chemical Corporation, the J. M. Sweeney Truckline and the
Overhead Door Company.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is a three-story brick structure supported on a stone foundation. In plan the
building measures 75 feet wide by 100 feet deep. The main facade is symmetrically arranged
with the central bay being accentuated by an extension of the building's cornice line. The
central bay is further differentiated from the side bays by a variation in the third floor
window treatment. On the third floor, windows in the side bays are topped with segmental
arches while rounded arches are used in the center bay. The integrity of this building has
been compromised by the alteration of the first story of the main facade.
5-29
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=4) + (H2=5) + (H3=2) = 11
Architectural: (A1=4) + (A2=3) + (A3=2) = 9
Combined Rating = 20 (Group 2)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-10-9
City Directories (1884-85, 1892-93, 1921-22, 1941, 1955, 1959)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce, 1911)
Franklin T. Oldt and P. J. Quigley, eds., History of Dubuque County, Iowa
(Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association, 1911)
5 —30
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.16
Carew Motors (56 Main Street)
Dub. Harbor Company Add'n, W 1/2 Lot 10, Blk 1 and W 1/2 Lot 11, Blk 1
HISTORY
Early Sanborn fire insurance maps and the infilled lower portions of window openings along
the top of the south side of the building indicate that this building is in fact what remains of
two buildings which were constructed between 1878 and 1881. The southern half of the
building was previously three -stories tall and was originally part of the C. L. Pritchard Buggy
Top Factory. This building was built in 1881 when Pritchard moved his factory from the
corner of Fourth and White Streets to South Main Street. Pritchard had started his business
in 1877 as an offshoot of the large wagon and carriage making industry that then flourished
in Dubuque.
the other half of the present building was originally two -stories tall when it was built by
John D. Bush in 1878. At the same time Bush also constructed the two-story building just
to the north (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.17), and together these buildings served as a
warehouse and store for his grain, seed and wool business. Bush was also one of Dubuque's
more prominent real estate dealers and he served two terms as mayor of the city
(1878-1883), as well as four terms on the city council.
n 1886 the McFadden Coffee and Spice Company took over the north half of this building
`rom John D. Bush, and in 1890 McFadden absorbed the coffee and spice business of Jesse
'. Farley, after which he subsequently expanded into the south half of the building when
he Pritchard Buggy Top Company ceased operation about 1892. Continuing to expand
McFadden next took over the other Bush building (RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.17) from the
Mitchell Transfer Company. The McFadden Company continued to occupy these buildings
until 1910 when it moved to new quarters at 145 W. First Street (RESOURCE SITE NO.
7.2).
5-31
Since 1910 a number of different firms have occupied this building. Included among these
occupants have been the M. M. Walker Wholesale grocery company, the Jacob Sloan beer
distributing company, Diener Appliances, and Maclnerney Body and Coach Works. Carew
Motors took over the building in 1960. It is difficult to determine from historical
documents when the upper floors of this building were removed, but city directories would
suggest either 1934 or 1959, two years when the building stood vacant.
ARCHITECTURE
Due to the extensive alteration of the exterior and removal of the upper stories this
building's integrity must be given a low rating. This alteration, though, has been successful
in keeping the building in harmony with surrounding structures.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=3) + (H2=3) + (H3=1) = 7
Architectural: (A1=3) + (A2=2) + (A3=1) = 6
Combined Rating = 13 (Group 3)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-10-7
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce, 1911)
Dubuque Daily Herald (January 3, 1879)
City Directories (1881, 1884, 1891, 1909, 1929, 1934, 1941, 1945, 1948, 1959,
1965)
5-32
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.17
A. J. Farber Company (60 Main Street)
Dub. Harbor Company Add'n, W 1/2 Lots 9 & 9A, Blk 1
HISTORY
This building was constructed in 1878 by John D. Bush. The building then served as a grain
warehouse. Bush was an important and very successful early grain merchant, who also ran a
small sash, door and blind factory with his brother on the northwest corner of Jones and
West Main (Shields) Streets. In addition Bush was a prominent real estate dealer, and in city
government he served four terms as alderman plus two terms as mayor of Dubuque.
In 1900 this building was occupied by the Charles Mitchell agricultural implements business
and a short while later was taken over by the McFadden Coffee and Spice Company (see
RESOURCE SITE NOS. 5.16 and 7.2). After the McFadden Company moved to a new
building a 145 W. First Street, Ferguson Manufacturing Company, which manufactured steel
tanks, occupied the premises. Subsequent occupants of the building have been the National
Butter Company and White Front Feed and Hatchery. A. J. Farber Company took over the
building in 1969.
ARCHITECTURE
Although the windows of this building have been alterred the outlines of the original
openings have been maintained. The only unusual design feature of this building is the large
round arched window right of the doorway. Except for the fact that the first story has been
painted white this building harmonizes well with surrounding structures. Its overall integrity
appears good.
5-33
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=5) + (H2=4) + (H3=4) = 13
Architectural: (
Al=3) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 10
Combined Rating = 23 (Group 2)
Source; City Assessment Record, 3-17-10-6 Publishing Company, 1884)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map 9
Dubuque Daily Herald (January 3, 1879)
Dubuque Daily Herald (August 4, 1886)
City Directories (1884, 1899-1900, 1921-22, 1941, 1969)
5 —34
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.18
Farber and Sons, fruit and bag company (64 Main Street)
Dub. Harbor Company Add'n, W 1/2 Lots 8, 8A and 8B, Blk 1
HISTORY
This building, which was constructed in 1912, was originally occupied by the Jackson
Vinegar Company. That company manufactured condiments, and occupied the building
until about 1940. After that time the Iowa Egg Products Company occupied the building
until 1948 when Farber and Sons took over the premises. Previous to 1912 it does not
appear that any buildings occupied this property. Sanborn fire insurance maps for 1884,
1891 and 1909 al! indicate that the property was vacant in those years.
ARCHITECTURE
This building is of brick construction and measures 64 feet wide by 98 feet deep. Much of
the previous window area has been filled with concrete block. However, the infill has been
recessed which has allowed for the maintenance of the basic architectural character of the
original design. Of particular interest in this design is the decorative brick work which
resembles motifs found on contemporary Prairie School buildings.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 16
(H1=1) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 5
(A1=4) + (A2=3) + (A3=4) = 11
(Group 3)
5-35
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-10-6 1911)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce,
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn Map Company, 1909)
City Directories (1915, 1921-22, 1934, 1945, 1948, 1955)
5-36
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.19
John C. Kaiser Company (68-72 Main Street)
Dub. Harbor Company Add'n, W 1/2 Lot 6, Blk 1 and W 1/2 Lot 7, Blk 1
HISTORY
The John C. Kaiser Company is a painting and decorating business which has been located in
this building since about 1950. Previous to that time the building was divided into two
separate structures. In 1941 Tischhauser Motor Company occupied the south part and
Dubuque Poster Advertising Company, the north part. In 1929 Dubuque Poster Advertising
Company occupied the south part and Val Blatz Brewing Company, the north part. In 1909
the Jackson Vinegar Company occupied the north part, while the south part was vacant.
According to fire insurance maps of the area the building was probably built about 1890.
None of the businesses which have occupied this building are of any historical consequence.
ARCHITECTURE
Extensive modification of this building h as removed any historic architectural value which
it may have once possessed.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=1) + (H2=1) + (H3=0) = 2
Architectural: (A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
Combined Rating = 2 (Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-10-6
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Maps Company,
1891)
City Directories (1929, 1941, 1948, 1952)
5-37
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.20
Biggs Bio-Chemical Company (76 Main Street)
Dub. Harbor Company Add'n, W 1/2 Lot 4, Blk 1 and W 1/2 Lot 5, Blk 1
HISTORY
According to city assessment records this building was constructed about 1910. City
directories, though, suggest a date somewhat after 1920. In 1929 the building served as a
warehouse for the Pure Test Oil Company, while in both 1941 and 1948 city directories
indicated the building was vacant. Previous to 1910 two separate buildings occupied this site
and before that this was the site of the Durfee Block which was constructed in 1857 and
destroyed by fire about 1880.
ARCHITECTURE
Except for the stepped parapet wall this building is devoid of any distinctive architectural
features.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 0 (Group 4)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-10-4
City Directories (1911, 1921-22, 1929, 1941, 1948)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Dubuque Dailyly Express and Herald (January 1, 1858)
(H1=0) + (H2=0) + (H3=0) = 0
(A1=0) + (A2=0) + (A3=0) = 0
5-38
i
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.21
Commercial Building (80 Main Street)
Dub. Harbor Company Add'n, S. 27' W 1/2 Lot 3, Blk 1 and S. 27' City Lot 532A
HISTORY
This building was constructed about 1909 and at that time served as the office and
warehouse of the National Biscuit Company. In 1921 the building was occupied by Earle
and Schroeder Motor Company which later became the Schroeder Motor Company. This
company continued to occupy the building into the 1950's. In 1891 and 1884 Sanborn
Insurance Maps show that the property was vacant.
ARCHITECTURE
This one-story brick building is 27 feet wide by 100 feet deep. A single steel I-beam spans
this total width across the front. Brick piers divide the front into three irregular bays below
the beam, and above it is an ornamented brick parapet wall.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 10
Source:
(H1=0) + (H2=2) + (H3=2) = 4
(A1=2) + (A2=1) + (A3=3) = 6
(Group 4)
City Assessment Record, 3-17-10-3
City Directories (1906, 1911, 1921-22, 1929, 1941, 1952)
Dubuque, Iowa (The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
Insurance Maps of Dubuque, Iowa (New York: Sanborn -Perris Map Company,
1891)
5-39
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.22
Main Hotel (84 Main Street) Add'n,
City Lots, S 1/2 Lot 532 and N. 25' Lot 532A; Dub. Harbor Company
W 1/2 Lot 2A Blk 1 and N. 24' W 1/2 Lot 3, Blk 1
HISTORY
This hotel was originally known as the Bennett Hotel, having been built by Richard Bennett
" for
in 1874. In 1883 it was rebuilt and enlarged
as as hotel to t e present d auiDur ng its
that year. This building has continued
century of service this hotel has also been known as the Huss House and the Park Hotel.
ARCHITECTURE
Except for the application of panelling over the first floor exterior little has been done to
change the appearance of this building during the past9 years.
Arr iteectural detodan og on
ns.
the building is sparce, which is befitting the economy class
chBuildings of similar age on Main Street north of First Street have much more ornament on
the cornice and window caps.
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
(H1=2) + (H2=4) + (H3=4) = 10
(A1=2) + (A2=3) + (A }=3) = 8
(Group 3)
Historical:
Architectural:
Combined Rating = 18
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-10-2
Dubuque Herald (December 20, 1883)
City Directories (1874, 1884, 1899-1900, 1906, 1921-22, 1941)
Dubuque, Iowa (New York: The Sanborn Map Publishing Company, 1884)
5-40
RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.23
Bishop's Block (90 Main Street)
City Lots 531 and N 1/2 532; Dub. Harbor Company Add'n, W 1/2 Lots 1 and 2, Blk 1
HISTORY
This five -story warehouse was designed by F. D. Hyde, a local architect, in 1887 and
construction was completed by 1889. The name of the building refers to the man who
commissioned its construction, Dubuque's Bishop John Hennessey, who besides his church
duties was a prominent local entrepreneur. The first occupant of the building was the
Marshall M. Walker Company. This company, though, only remained in the building for five
years, then moving to its own newly constructed building at the opposite end of the block
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.14). The next occupant of the building was another wholesale
grocery house, the John T. Hancock Company, which was established in 1858 and
previously occupied a store at 214 Main (non -extant). In 1908 the Western Grocery
Company, a large wholesale grocery company with branches in St. Joseph, Missouri; Albert
Lea and Owatonna, Minnesota; and Oskaloosa, Marshalltown, Mason City and Clinton,
Iowa, purchased the John T. Hancock Company and took over the Bishop's Block. This
company remained the occupant of the building into the 1950's.
ARCHITECTURE
This five -story brick warehouse has been described as an adaptation of the High Victorian
Italianate style. The corner turret and pyramid pier caps, though, appear more Gothic than
Italianate. Ornamental details are done in red terra-cotta and the overall building mass is
divided into three horizontal units by means of varied window treatment. This building is
one of the most imposing structures in Dubuque.
5-41
SIGNIFICANCE RATING
Historical: (H1=5) + (H2=4) + (H3=5) = 14
Architectural: (A1=3) + (A2=4) + (A3=5) = 12
Combined Rating = 26 (Group 1)
Source: City Assessment Record, 3-17-10-1
Lawrence J. Sommer, The Heritage of Dubuque, (East Dubuque: Tel Graphics,
1975)
Descriptive Survey of Dubuque (Dubuque: Chamber of Commerce, 1911)
Dubuque Daily Times (February 27, 1887)
Dubuque: The Key City of Iowa (Dubuque: Wescott and Pittam, Publishers,
1889)
City Directories (1890-91, 1894-95, 1899-1900, 1911, 1929, 1941, 1952)
5-42
5.3 DISTRICT EVALUATION
HISTORY
Until recently the area included in Survey Tract No. 5 maintained a distinctive identity as
the wholesale produce, grocery and farm supplied district of the city. This identity
originated with the city council designation of what is now Flatiron Park as the First Ward
Market, and later the city hay market. The close proximity of this area to the Illinois
Central Railroad freight house further enhanced the attractiveness of the area for
wholesalers.
During the past thirty years the nature of economic activity in the area has radically
changed. All of the large wholesale grocery companies have gone out of business and the
buildings they previously occupied (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 5.14, 5.15 and 5.23) now
either stand vacant or have been subdivided for office and commercial use. Most of th e
other buildings in the tract have undergone similar usage changes from warehouse and
industrial to commercial and office.
ARCHITECTURE
Flatiron Park due to its triangular shape has resulted in an unusual design relationship
among the buildings of Survey Tract No. 5. Excluding the two Robert's Smorgastable
buildings (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 5.1 and 5.1) and Thompson's Food Market
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.3), the buildings in the tract are held together as a group due to
the focusing effect of the park. This relationship is further enforced by the dominance of
the buildings located at the corners of the triangular tract: the Bishop's Block (RESOURCE
SITE NO. 5.23) at the north vertex, the Linehan and Molo building and Midland
Laboratories building (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 5.9 and 5.10) at the southwest vertex and
the former M. M. Walker and Company and Schroeder and Kleine Company wholesale
grocery warehouses (RESOURCE SITE NOS. 5.14 and 5.15) at the southeast vertex. The
visual dominance of these buildings acts to reduce the recognition of differences among the
smaller buildings in the tract which are located along the sides of the triangle. However,
substantial differences do exist among buildings in the tract and the recent modification of
buildings located at or near the tract vertices, in particular Jocille's Fashion Corner
(RESOURCE SITE NO. 5.4), have acted to reduce the architectural cohesiveness of the
tract by accentuating these differences.
5 —43