Mines of Spain RoadFields of Opportunities
THOMAS J. VI LSACK, GOVERNOR
SALLY J. PEDERSON, LT. GOVERNOR
STATE OF IOWA
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
JEFFREY R. VONK, DIRECTOR
December 19. 2006
The Honorable Mayor and
City of Dubuque
City Council Members
City Hall - 50 W. 13th Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
RE: Support for Renaming Mar Jo Quarry Road to Mines of Spain Road
Dear Mayor and City Council Members:
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources would like to rename Mar Jo Quarry Road
to Mines of Spain Road. This road is one of the main access points into the Mines of
Spain State Recreation Area. We think this name change will help with directing visitors
to the state park.
We researched the history of the road name, but did not find much information.
Hermann J. and Marcella S. Lott purchased the land in April 21, 1942. On May 16,
1947 the Lotts incorporated their land and property and called it Marjo Hills Inc. We
speculate that Mar Jo refers to Marcella and another family member whose name
began with Jo. There is also a Mar Jo Hills Road in the area.
We have reviewed our request to rename the road with the County Road Naming
Committee and the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors. We have learned that Mar
Jo Quarry Road lies within the city limits of Dubuque for a short distance. The County
Road Naming Committee and the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors support the
name change, provided we also receive support from the City of Dubuque.
Thank you for considering our request, and we look forward to your support.
Sincer/ y,
ay a Buchholtz, Park Rang r
Mines of Spain State Recreation Area
cc: Michael Van Milligen, City Manager
WALLACE STATE OFFICE BUILDING /502 EAST 9T" STREET /DES MOINES, IOWA 50319
515-281-5918 TDD515-242-5967 FAX 515-281-6794 www.state.ia.us/dnr