ENGEL, H. A. "Heinie"

ENGEL, H. A. "Heinie" (Reynolds, IL, Sept. 17, 1891-Dubuque, IA, Mar. 26, 1949). Wrestler. Engel is usually credited with being the man who popularized wrestling in Dubuque. Educated at DUBUQUE HIGH SCHOOL and the BAYLESS BUSINESS COLLEGE, Engel worked as a fireman for the Milwaukee railroad from 1912 to 1915. He later served as an engineer with the same company until 1926 and then operated the Engel-Nash Auto Company for many years.

Engel began his colorful wrestling career in 1914 and remained a local favorite for nearly two decades. His training camp was at the Third and Main Street arena. Engel defeated Lou Talaber, the world's middleweight champion in 1925. He remained a perennial title contender.