Mansion Row Arch Booklet
c
'Xgren <M. ~
1895 S~ !i'.mbrose
~ J!4. 52001
The modern history of this area began in 1673 when
Louis Joliet and Father Marquette discovered the
Upper Mississippi Valley, including what is now the
site of Dubuque. In 1690 Nicholas Perrot began to
tap rich lead deposits here and taught the Miami
Indians how to mine the ore.
Julien Dubuque, for whom the city was named, settled
in thearea to mine lead and trap furs in 1788. Following
the Louisiana Purchase, President Jefferson sent Lt.
Zebulon Pike to explore the Mississippi to its source.
In doing so, he stopped and conferred with Dubuque
in 1805.
Dubuque died here in 1810, after which the land re-
mained under complete Indian control until the
Blackhawk War of 1832. Westward expansion of the
I 820s had brought many settlers to the Midwest and
in 1833 the west side of the River was opened to them.
The town was founded as a mining community and
the developing steamboat commerce brought more
settlers and prosperity. In 1837 the territorial govern-
ment of Wisconsin permitted the village to incor-
porate and a city charter was adopted in 1841.
Eventually, lead mining began to decline and
agriculture to flourish. Flour and grist mills prospered,
the railroads connected Dubuque to the rest of the
country, the lumber industry expanded rapidly and
Dubuque was on its way to becoming the "Key City"
of the 3-state area.
Dubuque has expanded from an area of one square
mile to sixteen square miles. Today the city is blessed
with many diversified industries such as meat-
packing, millwork, plumbing goods, farm equipment,
fine furniture, electronic equipment, and a con-
siderable number of small "feeder" industries.
The city retains much of the charm and character of
the 19th century and many citizens are vitally con-
cerned with preserving the historic landmarks which
link the old with the new.
~ Cornice
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Frieze
Dentils
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Mansard Roof
and Dormers
Second Empire
Style
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r--l r--l r--- r---
Ornamental
Dripstone or
"Eyebrow" of
Carved stone.
Palladian window
Gable with
Barge Board and
Gothic Arch
...
~
~
~
Romanesque
Arch
"Bull's,Eye"
window with
Tracery
Oriel or
slanted bay
May also be
square
The original settlers of Dubuque were huddled between
First and Seventh Streets from the bluffs to the river.
Fourth Street was the dividing line between the Irisb and
German people, each of whom adhered to their own ethnic
traditions. They did not associate witb each other, but did
mix with other ethnic groups in business and politics. Lead
mining was the first industry, soon lumbering, milling,
meat packing, and other ventures developed. A number of
men became wealthy and it behooved them to establish
homes indicative of their social status. Natural growth oc-
curred on Bluff, Locust and Main Streets north of Seventh.
By the end of the Civil War era many of the ethnic pre-
judices seem to have dispersed and the neighborhood
became more of a "melting pot." "Mansion Row" became
to Dubuque what Knob Hill was to San Francisco. An
aura of that grandeur prevails today, despite conversion of
some homes to apartments or commercial use and replace-
ment with modern structures or demolition for parking
lots.
1. 1199 MAIN
51. Luke's Methodist Church
Built in 1896 of Bedford Limestone, this Richardsonian-
Romanesque building was designed by George Kramer. All
windows are Tiffany Favrile glass; the frieze "The Singing
Children" around the chancel is an exact replica of a Luca
della Robia design; Italian marble, brass communion rail, a
mosaic of Christ and the IS-ton hand operated McShane
chimes are other cherished treasures of this building. The
Methodists built the first church in Iowa in 1834-a log
cabin in Washington Park in Dubuque-which was used
by other denominations and as a school and courthouse.
This Methodist congregation has been continuously active
from its inception to the present day.
2, ]172 MAIN
This pre-I 900 high style late Georgian example of a town
house was built by George R. Burden, prominent
developer of the 1870s. The structure is unusual, featuring
large stone belt courses at each floor level and the large bay
ascending from ground level to the top floor. Dentils,
brackets, and the interesting entrance enhance the
building, which was built as an apartment house.
3. 1100-1500 MAIN
The "Bissell Block" is a superb example of a Second Empire
row house, built in 1876, the addition on the north was added
in 1880. It contains 18 housing units. The heavy carved
dripstones with keystones are outstanding. Ezekiel Bissell
was a prominent attorney, State Senator and real estate
developer. This type of rowhouse was common in Dubuque
which once boasted having more rowhouses than any
other city in the midwest.
The original settlers of Dubuque were huddled between
First and Seventh Streets from the bluffs to the river.
Fourth Street was the dividing line between the Irish and
German people, each of whom adhered to their own ethnic
traditions. They did not associate with each other, but did
mix with other ethnic groups in business and politics. Lead
mining was the first industry, soon lumbering, milling,
meat packing, and other ventures developed. A number of
men became wealthy and it behooved them to establish
homes indicative of their social status, Natural growth oc-
curred on Bluff, Locust and Main Streets north of Seventh,
By the end of the Civil War era many of the ethnic pre-
judices seem to have dispersed and the neighborhood
became more of a "melting pot." "Mansion Row" became
to Dubuque what Knob Hill was to San Francisco. An
aura of that grandeur prevails today, despite conversion of
some homes to apartments or commercial use and replace-
ment with modern structures or demolition for parking
lots.
L 1199 MAIN
51. Luke's Methodist Church
Built in 1896 of Bedford Limestone, this Richardsonian-
Romanesque building was designed by George Kramer. All
windows are Tiffany Favrile glass; the frieze "The Singing
Children" around the chancel is an exact replica of a Luca
della Robia design; Italian marble, brass communion rail, a
mosaic of Christ and the IS-ton hand operated McShane
chimes are other cherished treasures of this building. The
Methodists built the first church in Iowa in 1834-a log
cabin in Washington Park in Dubuque-which was used
by other denominations and as a school and courthouse.
This Methodist congregation has been continuously active
from its inception to the present day,
2, 1172 MAIN
This pre-I 900 high style late Georgian example of a town
house was built by George R, Burden, prominent
developer of the 1870s. The structure is unusual, featuring
large stone belt courses at each floor level and the large bay
ascending from ground level to the top floor. Dentils,
brackets, and the interesting entrance enhance the
building, which was built as an apartment house.
3. 1100,1500 MAIN
The "Bissell Block" is a superb example of a Second Empire
rowhouse, built in 1876, the addition on the north was added
in 1880. It contains 18 housing units. The heavy carved
dripstones with keystones are outstanding, Ezekiel Bissell
was a prominent attorney, State Senator and real estate
developer. This type of rowhouse was common in Dubuque
which once boasted having more rowhouses than any
other city in the midwest.
4. 1000 MAIN
Modern day renovation has altered the original character
of many buildings, both commercial and residential. This
1894 strueture was built by a realty firm for rental purposes.
The first occupant was the Richard Herrman Furniture
retail outlet, with the third floor being devoted to Masonic
activities, and later used as a public dance hall. When the
Dubuque Electric Company, later absorbed by the In-
terstate Power Company, occupied the building in 1924,
the interior was completely remodeled and the third floor
converted into a staff lounge, one of the first large firms to
be concerned about the welfare of its workers.
5, 255 W, TENTH STREET
First Congregational Church
Built in 1857, designed by David Jones, this is a sample of
high Victorian Gothic architecture. The rose window is 13
feet in diameter and the largest in the city. An ornate cap
on the tower was removed some years ago. The original
bell rang all night until it cracked
when Lee surrendered at Appomatox.
Until World War II, all pews were
rented to parishioners and the church
still has, but does not use, the velvet
collection bags on long sticks, which
originated with the New England
Pilgrims, progenitors of Congrega-
tionalism.
6. TENTH & BLUFF
Lyons House
The Lyons House was built
shortly after the Civil War by
CoLD.E. Lyon, who was the
U.S. Collector of Revenue at
Dubuque and later an attorney.
Two crouching stone lions which
graced the original porch are in
storage at the present time and
will hopefully be restored to their
original location.
7. ]005 & 1025,37 LOCUST
The dormers on this home are interesting. The one at the
right witb the arched window and pitched gable is an ex-
tension of the roof line, The rounded dormer to the left
features ornate cut work and pillars, while the large dormer
on the south resembles a Greek temple witll pediments,
Note that the bays are also dissimilar. This grand house
was the home and office of Dr. James Guthrie, an 1884
graduate of Medicine at the University of Iowa. He attained
such prominence in this profession that in 1889 he was
elected chair of the Physiology Department at his Alma
Mater, succeeding in 1898 to the chair of Gynecology,
then in 1902 to the Dean of the College of Medicine. The
4-story row house next door comprises three individual
houses. Details, however, are uniform throughout. Note
the brackets and the unusual projecting hoods over the
dormer windows of each floor. Attempts at modernization
have detraeted from the charm of the building.
4. ]000 MAIN
Modern day renovation has altered the original character
of many buildings, both commercial and residential. This
1894 structure was built by a realty firm for rental purposes.
The first occupant was the Richard Herrman Furniture
retail outlet, with the third floor being devoted to Masonic
activities, and later used as a public dance hall. When the
Dubuque Electric Company, later absorbed by the In-
terstate Power Company, occupied the building in 1924,
the interior was completely remodeled and the third floor
converted into a staff lounge, one of the first large firms to
be concerned about the welfare of its workers.
5. 255 W. TENTH STREET
First Congregational Church
Built in 1857, designed by David Jones, this is a sample of
high Victorian Gothic architecture. The rose window is 13
feet in diameter and the largest in the city. An ornate cap
on the tower was removed some years ago. The original
bell rang all night until it cracked
when Lee surrendered at Appomatox.
Until World War II, all pews were
rented to parishioners and the church
still has, but does not use, the velvet
collection bags on long sticks, which
originated with the New England
Pilgrims, progenitors of Congrega-
tionalism.
6. TENTH & BLUFF
Lyons House
The Lyons House was built
shortly after the Civil War by
Col. D.E. Lyon, who was the
U.S. Collector of Revenue at
Dubuque and later an attorney.
Two crouching stone lions which
graced the original porch are in
storage at the present time and
will hopefully be restored to their
original location.
7. ]005 & 1025,37 LOCUST
The dormers on this home are interesting. The one at the
right with the arched window and pitched gable is an ex-
tension of the roof line. The rounded dormer to the left
features ornate cut work and pillars, while the large dormer
on the south resembles a Greek temple with pediments.
Note that the bays are also dissimilar. This grand house
was the home and office of Dr. James Guthrie, an 1884
graduate of Medicine at the University of Iowa. He attained
such prominence in this profession that in 1889 he was
elected chair of the Physiology Department at his Alma
Mater, succeeding in 1898 to the chair of Gynecology,
then in 1902 to the Dean of the College of Medicine. The
4'story row house next door comprises three individual
houses. Details, however, are uniform throughout. Note
the brackets and the unusual projecting hoods over the
dormer windows of each floor. Attempts at modernization
have detracted from the charm of the building.
8, CARNEGIE,STOUT PUBLIC LIBRARY INRHPJ
11th & Bluff
The library, built in 190 I was designed by Williamson and
Spencer of Chicago in the Neo-Classical Revivalist or
Classical Beaux-Arts style at a time when more marble was
being used in the United States for construction than was
ever used in the history of the Roman Empire. Andrew
Carnegie donated $60,000. the Stout family the land,
valued at $20,000 and the Young Men's Literary Society,
$15,000, The north and west sides are built of Indiana Bed-
ford limestone. The Corinthian portico is modeled after
that of the Pantheon in Rome and supported by fluted col-
umns, The interior is elaborate with classical plaster den-
tieulation, ornate copper railing and light fixtures, marble
flooring and varnished white oak woodwork. An elaborate
center rotunda with a 13 foot diameter light well in the
dome facilitates circulation in the building. There are eight
Corinthian columns with frieze and cornice ornamentation
on the second floor of the rotunda. A new addition to the
east was constructed in 1979-80 for expansion purposes.
9, 1108,1134 LOCUST
The "O'Brien Block" is a different style of row house. In-
stead of being built as one large composite, there are in-
dividual units in basically similar style with a common wall
serving each two units. 1132 Locust was the home of the
noted Senator William Boyd Allison who was influential
nationally during his 46 years in the U.S. Congress. Most
of these are in the Federal style and were built in the mid-
l850s.
10. 1105 LOCUST
Stout lIouse
This is the only Richardsonian
Romancsque house in the city,
the style having greater adap'
tability Ii" puhlic buildings. It
was designed by John Srencer
and constructed in 1890-91 by
F,D, Stout of Red Minnesota
sandstone. the arched windows
heingtypicalofthestyle.Leaded
glass windows, mahogany and
rosewood interior trim, onyx
columns supporting double
doors, bathroom fixtures of
German silver are some of the
outstanding features. The
Stouts were a wealthy lumber
family. The Archdiocese of
Dubuque purchased the home
in 1911 and it served as the residence of the Archbishop
until recently when it was sold to a private concern and
converted into a "bed and breakfast" inn.
11. 1145 LOCUST
Built in 1892 by H.L Stout for his daughter, Fanny, It is
the most elaborate example of Queen Anne architecture in
the city and cannot be described in simple terms. It is a
frenzy of Greek Revival. Gothic. Romanesque. Oriental
and Richardsonian. capped by a Byzantine tower' Fridolin
Heer, designer of the Courthouse and many other
buildings in the area. was the architect. Note the molded
cornices, elaborate frieze on the porches, geometrical brick
work of the chimney, slate roof on dome. and leaded glass
windows,
8, CARNEGIE-STOUT PUBLIC LIBRARY INRHP!
11th & Bluff
built in 190 I was designed by Williamson and
Chicago in the Neo,Classical Revivalist or
Beaux Arts style at a time when more marble was
being used in the United States for construction than was
ever used in the history of the Roman Empire, Andrew
Carnegie donated $60,000, the Stout family the land.
valued at $20,000 and the Young Men's Literary Society,
$15,000, The north and west sides are built of Indiana Bed-
ford limestone. The Corinthian portico is modeled after
that of the Pantheon in Rome and supported by fluted col-
umns, The interior is elaborate with classical plaster den-
ticulation, ornate copper railing and light fixtures, marble
flooring and varnished white oak woodwork. An elaborate
center rotunda with a 13 foot diameter light well in the
dome facilitates circulation in the building, There are eight
Corinthian columns with frieze and cornice ornamentation
on the second floor of the rotunda. A new addition to the
east was constructed in 1979-80 for expansion purposes,
The
9, 1108,1134 LOCUST
The "O'Brien Block" is a different style of row house. In-
stead of being built as one large composite. there are in-
dividual units in basically similar style with a eommon wall
serving each two units. 1132 Locust was the home of the
noted Senator William Boyd Allison who was influential
nationally during his 46 years in the U.S. Congress. Most
of these are in the Federal style and were built in the mid-
l850s.
1tI, 11tI5 LOCUST
Stout House
This is the only Richardsol1lan
Romanesquc house in the city,
the style having greater adap
tability I(¡r public buildings. It
was designed by John Spencer
and constructed in l890,9Jby
¡.',D, Stout of Red Minnesota
sandstone, the arched windows
being typical ofthestyk, Leaded
glass windnws, mahogany and
rosewood interior trim, onyx
columns supporting doubk
doors, bathroom fixtures of
German silver are some of the
outstanding features, The
Stouts were a wealthy lumher
family The Archdiocese of
Dubuque purchased the home
m 1911 and it served as the residence of the ArchbIShop
until recently when it was sold to a private concern and
converted into a "bed and breakfast" inn,
II. 1145 LOCUST
Built in 1892 by H.L. Stout for his daughter, Fanny, It is
the most elaborate exampk of Queen Anne architecture in
the city and cannot be described in simple terms, It is a
frenzy of Greek Revival, GOthic, Romanesque. Oriental
and Richardsonian, capped by a Byzantine tower! Fridolin
Heer, designer of the Courthouse and many other
buildings in the area. was the architect. Note the molded
cornices. elaborate frieze on the porches, geometflcal brick
work of the chimney. slate roof on dome, and leaded glass
willdows,
12. 1182 LOCUST
[his attractive Second Empire structure was the home of
Alfred Tredway, an early settler. Additions to adapt it for
apartments have hidden some of the original character.
The central. or original portion, was built in the late l870s
and designed by Fridolin Heer. Tbe third Ooor was a
ballroom but used also by neighborhood children as a
skating rink, Mr. Tredway and a partner were wholesale
dealers in heavy hardware. The company occupied four
large buildings in the city. Mrs. Tredway was a cousin of
President William Howard Taft.
13,1192 LOCUST
An Italian Villa style built in
1855 and added to in 1860,
The designer is believed to
have been Rufus Ritten
house whose home yoU will
see later in the tour, The
owner, Fred Weigel. Came
from Germany at age eleven
with his family in 1833, He
became prominent in mill,
ing. meat packing and real
estate, purchasing a large
amount of downtown pro-
perty, This house was fur-
nished with hand-carved fur
niture (some with gold in,
lay), antique silver and
china, and valuable works of
art. Five generations of the
family were reared in the
home.
14, 1207 GROVE TERRACE
(On the crest of the bluff to the west.!
Built by B.M. Harger in 1890, this is a superb example of
pure Gothic Revival cottagc, It has had only four owners
and no exterior structural changes have occurred, The
steep gables with lacy barge boards and wide veranda are
typieal of the style, The noted Iowa artist. Francesco
Licciardi, lived here at one time,
15, 1243 LOCUST
The Goodrich-Wilson-Ryan home was designed by John
Francis Rague, designer of the Dubuque county jail and
variations of other styled buildings throughout the city,
This house is a combination of styles but could be called
"Bracketed Tudor Gothic" The front elevation is Greek
Revival of the 1830s, the columns Gothic quatrefoil. An
L-shapped addition did not carry out the theme of the
original unit. Thc entire house is eclectic in nature. Mr.
Goodrich, the builder, went to New York to buy fur,
nishings but the Panic of 1857 forced him to mortgage the
house as security and hc was never able to redeem the pro-
perty, After several owners the house was converted to
apartments in 1943.
12. 1182 LOCUST
This attractive Seeond Empire structure was the home of
Alfred Tredway, an early settler. Additions to adapt it for
apartments have hidden some of the original character.
The central, or original portion, was built in the late l870s
and designed by Fridolin Heer. The third floor was a
ballroom but used also by neighborhood children as a
skating rink, Mr. Tredway and a partner were wholesale
dealers in heavy hardware. The company occupied four
large buildings in the city. Mrs. Tredway was a cousin of
President William Howard Taft.
13.1192 LOCUST
An Italian Villa style built in
1855 and added to in 1860.
The designer is believed to
have been Rufus Ritten
house whose home you will
see later in the tour. The
owner, Fred Weigel. came
from Germany at age eleven
with his family in 1833. He
became prominent in mill-
ing, meat packing and real
estate, purchasing a large
amount of downtown pro-
perty. This house was fur-
nished with hand-carved fur,
niture (some with gold in-
lay), antique silver and
china, and valuable works of
art. Five generations of the
family were reared in the
home,
14, 1207 GROVE TERRACE
(On the crest of the bluff to the west,)
Built by B.M. Harger in 1890, this is a superb example of
pure Gothic Revival cottage, It has had only four owners
and no exterior structural changes have occurred. The
steep gables with lacy barge boards and wide veranda are
typical of the style. The noted Iowa artist, Francesco
Licciardi,lived here at one time.
15, 1243 LOCUST
The Goodrich-Wilson-Ryan home was designed by John
Francis Rague. designer of the Dubuque county jail and
variations of other styled buildings throughout the city.
This house is a combination of styles but could be called
"Bracketed Tudor Gothic.'. The front elevation is Greek
Revival of the 1830s. the columns Gothic quatrefoil. An
L-shapped addition did not carry out the theme of the
original unit. The entire house is eclectic in nature. Mr.
Goodrich, the builder. went to New York to buy fur-
nishings but the Panic of 1857 forced him to mortgage the
house as security and he was never able to redeem the pro-
perty. After several owners the house was converted to
apartments in 1943.
16, 1255,1257 LOCUST
Another building of Italian tradition tempered by the Baro
que era of Louis XIV. it is a fine example of the well pro'
portioned, dignified multiple house with arched windows,
attractive eyebrows, 2-story slanted bays and bracketed
eaves, This and the previous house were the first on the
street. Thomas Hardie came from Canada in 1846 and pur-
chased this house in 1847 when it still stood north of the city
in fields overgrown with penny royal and hazel brush. Mr.
Hardie was a painter by trade and a friend of Gen. George
Wallace Jones, served under him as Surveyor and was for
many years on the Board of Education and represented the
county in the Iowa Legislature.
17, 1268 LOCUST
Built by William L. Bradley,
one of Dubuque's most im
portant capitalists, he also
served as a school teacher.
but later began investing in
real estate and at the time of
his death in 1904 he was the
city's highest paying tax
payer. He was the majority
stockholder of the Grand
Opera House on Eighth
Street and its first Vice Presi-
dent and second President.
The iron fence is excep-
tional. Also notice the close
proximity to the house on
the north, something current
building codes would never
permit.
18, 1298 LOCUST
A classic box, this structure is a sub-type of the Colonial
Revival period which began in the late 1800's. During the
Revival period houses appeared in several forms. However,
the hipped roof with a dormer and the off-center entrance
and porch indicate construction prior to 1915.
19, 1320 & 1330 LOCUST
Built in 1881 by Ezekiel Woodworth who was engaged in
the mercantile trade with his brother W.W. Woodworth.
The latter was also proprietor of the Julien House Hotel.
This home has been beautifully restored. Outstanding
features include the cherry woodwork and Carrara marble
fireplaces and parquet floors. 1330 Locost is an Italian
Villa structure and home of the Edward Lull family, a
banker and miner. The building personifies the adaptation
of the Italianate in a more simple style. A porch once ran
from the entrance around the corner of the house, which
added to its charm.
16, 1255-1257 LOCUST
Another building of Italian tradition tempered by the Baro
que era of Louis XIV. it is a fine example of the well pro
portioned. dignified multiple house with arched windows.
attractive eyebrows. 2-story slanted bays and bracketed
eaves, This and the previous house were the first on the
street. Thomas Hardie came from Canada in 1846 and pur
chased this house in 1847 when it still stood north of the city
in fields overgrown with penny royal and hazel brush. Mr.
Hardie was a painter by trade and a friend of Gen, George
Wallace Jones, served under him as Surveyor and was for
many years on the Board of Education and represented the
county in the Iowa Legislature.
17, 1268 LOCUST
Built by William L-
one of Dubuque's most
portant capitalists, he also
a school teacher,
investing in
real estate at [he time of
his death In 1904 he was the
city", tax
payer. was
stockholder of the
Opera House on Eighth
Street and its first Vice Presi-
dent and second President.
The iron fence is eseep
tional. Also notice the close
proximity to the house on
the north, something current
building codes would never
permit.
18, 1298 LOCUST
A classic box. this structure is a sub-type of the Colonial
Revival period which began in the late 1800's. During the
Revival period houses appeared in several forms, However.
the hipped roof with a dormer and the off-center entrance
and porch indicate construction prior to 1915,
19, 1320 & 1330 LOCUST
Built in 1881 by Ezekiel Woodworth who was engaged in
the mercantile trade with his brother W.W, Woodworth,
The latter was also proprietor of the Julien House Hotel.
This home has been beautifully restored. Outstanding
features include the cherry woodwork and Carrara marble
fireplaces and parquet floors. 1330 Locust is an Italian
Villa structure and home of the Edward Lull family, a
banker and miner. The building personifies the adaptation
of the Italianate in a more simple style. A porch once ran
from the entrance around the corner of the house, which
added to its charm.
20, 1375 LOCUST
Ryau House
Built in 1873 by William Andrew and first lived in by
Mayor John Thompson, this house was designed by
Fridolin Heer. In style it is Second Empire with Italianate
overtones. The ornate window and porch trim, the well
proportioned mansard roof and the belvedere are noteable.
The same iron cresting that appears on the belvedere once
followed the entire ,oof line. Mr. William Ryan bought the
home in 1885 for his second wife. Prior to his death in
1890, he had the house moved 13 feet south to better
separate his second family from the children of the first
family. Descendants maintained the house until 1967
when it was sold and eventually restored. It now serves the
public as a fine restaurant providing an excellent cuisine in
the grace and elegance of yesteryear.
21. 1389 LOCUST
Built in 1872 by William
Ryan who came from
Galena where he had been a
close friend of Gen. U.s.
Grant. Van Osdel, designer
of the Palmer House in
Chicago was the architect.
Through General Grant,
Mr. Ryan supplied meat to
the Union Army during the
Civil War and carried on
that business in Dubuque.
This home possesses many
of the traditional Italian
Villa characteristics-the
finely proportioned eaves
and corbeled chimneys. A
balcony is missing from the
second floor that was
entered from the tower.
22, 1394 LOCUST
Known as the Cooley home, the building has been altered
exte~sively to accomodate the needs of a commercial enter-
prise, The square central tower has been removed, along
with a porch across the front with its iron cresting and iron
fence at the street. The house was buill about 1866 and the
Hon. Dennis Cooley was the second owner. It was the
center of many civic affairs, particularly women's activities.
Socially, prominent women met here to organize the
Ladies' Literary Association of which Mrs. Cooley was the
first president. It later became the Dubuque Women's
Club. Hon. Dennis Cooley, one time partner of Sen.
Allison, was appointed by President Lincoln as Commis-
sioner to South Carolina to settle land tilles, He also served
under President Andrew Johnson as Commissioner of In-
dian Affairs, as Commissioner to the Vienna Exposition,
and as President of the First National Bank of Dubuque,
23, FORT RITTENHOUSE
As you walk east on Loras Blvd. and approach the alley
between Locust and Main, you can just see "Fort Ritten-
house" by looking back over your left shoulder. One of the
oldest houses in the city, it sits high on the bluff. It is
believed to have been buill about 1 846-the only house on
the hill at the time and commanded a great view. The name
"Fort" was acquired in its infancy because of its appearance
and location. Rufus Rittenhouse came to Dubuque in 1836
at the age of eleven and built this house when he was
twenty-one. He retained possession of the property after
which the two halves were owned by a succession of promi-
nent citizens.
20. 1375 LOCUST
Ryan Hnuse
Built in 1873 by William Andrew and first lived in by
Mayor John Thompson, this house was designed by
Fridolin Heer. In style it is Second Empire with Italianate
overtones. The ornate window and porch trim, the well
proportioned mansard roof and the belvedere are noteable.
The same iron cresting that appears on the belvedere once
followed the entire roof line. Mr. William Ryan bought the
home in 1885 for his second wife. Prior to his death in
1890, he had the house moved 13 feet south to better
separate his second family from the children of the first
family. Descendants maintained the house until 1967
when it was sold and eventually restored. It now serves the
public as a fine restaurant providing an excellent cuisine in
the grace and elegance of yesteryear.
2]. 1389 LOCUST
Built in 1872 by William
Ryan who came from
Galena where he had been a
close friend of Gen. U.S.
Grant. Van Osdel, designer
of the Palmer House in
Chicago was the architect.
Through General Grant,
Mr. Ryan supplied meat to
the Union Army during the
Civil War and carried on
that business in Dubuque.
This home possesses many
of the traditional Italian
Villa characteristics-the
finely proportioned eaves
and corbeled chimneys. A
balcony is missing from the
second floor that was
entered from the tower.
22. 1394 LOCUST
Known as the Cooley home. the building has been altered
extensively to accomodate the needs of a commercial enter-
prise. The square central tower has been removed, along
with a porch across the front with its iron cresting and iron
fence at the street. The house was built about 1866 and the
Hon. Dennis Cooley was the second owner. It was the
center of many civic affairs, particularly women's activities.
Socially, prominent women met here to organize the
Ladies' Literary Association of which Mrs. Cooley was the
first president. It later became the Dubuque Women's
Club. Hon. Dennis Cooley, one time partner of Sen.
Allison, was appointed by President Lincoln as Commis-
sioner to South Carolina to settle land titles. He also served
under President Andrew Johnson as Commissioner of In-
dian Affairs, as Commissioner to the Vienna Exposition,
and as President of the First National Bank of Dubuque.
23. FORT RITTENHOUSE
As you walk east on Loras Blvd. and approach the alley
between Locust and Main, you can just see "Fort Ritten-
house" by looking back over your left shoulder. One of the
oldest houses in the city, it sits high on the bluff. It is
believed to have been built about I 846-the only house on
the hill at the time and commanded a great view. The name
"Fort" was acquired in its infancy because of its appearance
and location. Rufus Rittenhouse came to Dubuque in 1836
at the age of eleven and built this house when he was
twenty-one. He retained possession of the property after
which the two halves were owned by a succession of promi-
nent citizens.
- ----
24. 1397 MAIN
This Italianate home was built by W.J. Knight who came
from Ireland to become an outstanding attorney. He was
Mayor three times and was instrumental in codifying the
laws of Iowa. Built in the early 18805, the style reverts to
that of an earlier era when lines were more simple as seen
in the restrained segmental window arches, the few
brackets and turned eaves. As you walk down the block
notice the similarity between this house and 1301 & 1357
Main.
25, 1392 MAIN
Home of John Ellwanger who operated a large wholesale
liquor firm, this Second Empire structure is typical of the
Victorian era with its heavy stone dripstones, brackets
dentils and wide frieze. Obviously, the original classicaì
entrance has been replaced.
26. 1337 MAIN
The primary characteristic of a Queen Anne house is the
irregularity of plan and massing and this house was a true
interpretation of this style. The two asymmetrical towers,
one with a candle snuffer cap, the other with a domed
metal roof, are typical. Later the overwhelming Greek por-
tico and pediment were added and the lower side porch
enciosed.c.H. Eighmey came to Dubuque in 1850, practiced
law with Judge Cooley, then later became president of
First National Bank in which capacity he served over 40
years. He was instrumental in the building of St. Luke's
MethodistChurch,1199Main.
27. 13TH & lOW A (NRHP)
City Hall
Designed and built in 1857 by the
famous architect, John Francis
Rague. Modeled after Faneuil Hall
in Boston it served as the combined
market and government facility for
many years. The brickwork is
outstanding. The basement contain-
ed the calaboose and several saloons.
The first floor windows were
originally doors where wagons back-
ed up to unload their wares; city of-
fices were on the second floor, and
the third floor contained a com-
munity center and ballroom. An or-
nate cupola, removed in 1954, con-
tained a bell which rang for curfew,
fires and returning soldiers. This bell
is now mounted on the podium on
the Central Avenue side of the
building.
24. 1397 MAIN
This Italianate home was built by W,j, Knight who came
from Ireland to become an outstanding attorney. He was
Mayor three times and was instrumental in codifying the
laws of Iowa. Built in the early 18805, the style reverts to
that of an earlier era when lines were more simple as seen
in the restrained segmental window arches, the few
brackets and turned eaves. As you walk down the block
notice the similarity between this housc and 130 I & 1357
Main.
25. 1392 MAIN
Home of John Ellwanger who operated a large wholesale
liquor firm, this Second Empire structure is typical of tbe
Victorian era with its heavy stone dripstones, brackets,
dentIls and wide frieze. Obviously, the original classical
entrance has been replaced,
26. 1337 MAIN
The primary eharacteristic of a Queen Anne house is the
irregularity of plan and massing and this house was a true
interpretation of this style, The two asymmetrical towers,
one with a candle snuffer cap, the other with a domed
metal roof, are typical. Later the overwhelming Greek por-
tico and pediment were added and the lower side porch
enclosed. CH. Eighmey came to Dubuque in 1850, practiced
law with Judge Cooley, then later became president of
First National Bank in which capacity he served over 40
years, He was instrumental in the building of St. Luke's
Methodist Church, 1199 Main,
27, 13TH & IOWA INRHP!
City Hall
Designed and built in 1857 by the
famous architect, John Francis
Rague. Modeled after Faneuil Hall
in Boston it served as the combined
market and government facility for
many years, The brickwork is
outstanding. The basement contain-
ed the calaboose and several saloons.
The first floor windows were
originally doors where wagons back-
ed up to unload their wares; city of-
fices were on the second floor, and
the third floor contained a com-
munity center and ballroom, An or-
nate cupola, removed in 1954, con-
tained a bell which rang for curfew,
fires and returning soldiers. This bell
is now mounted on the podium on
the Central Avenue side of the
building.
CREDITS
This brochure was researched and prepared by the
Building and Sites Committee of the Dubuque County
Historical Society. Special thanks to the following in-
dividuals:
Research - Helen Mercer, Lorrayne Smith
Editing - Michael D. Gibson
Photographs - Robert W. Smith
Design - James Bainbridge
Maps - Helen Mercer
Our thanks to the many others who made this project
possible.
The Dubuque County Historical Society is head-
quartered at the Fred W. Woodward Riverboat
Museum at the Ice Harbor Phone: (319) 557-9545.
The DCHS maintains the Ham House Museum at
2241 Lincoln Street - Phone: (319) 583-2812, and the
Woodward Riverboat Museum at the Ice Harbor
which includes the Sidewheeler William M. Black.
Cover Photo: 1389 Locust
CREDITS
This brochure was researched and prepared by the
Building and Sites Committee of the Dubuque County
Historical Society, Special thanks to the following in-
dividuals:
Research - Helen Mercer, Lorrayne Smith
Editing - Michael D. Gihson
Photographs - Robert W. Smith
Design - James Bainbridge
Maps - Helen Mercer
Our thanks to the many others who made this project
possible,
The Dubuque County Historical Society is head-
quartered at the Fred W. Woodward Riverboat
Museum at the Ice Harbor Phone: (319) 557-9545.
The DCHS maintains the Ham House Museum at
2241 Lincoln Street - Phone: (319) 583-2812, and the
Woodward Riverboat Museum at the Ice Harbor
which includes the Sidewheeler William M, Black.
Cover Photo: 1389 Locust