Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
Marshall Cohen—researcher and producer, CNN
Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
HARRY WAHLERT-140 FREMONT
HARRY WAHLERT HOUSE. This mansion along Fremont Avenue was constructed in 1926 for the Emil and Olga Loetscher family. In May 1939 the Loetscher family sold the home to the ARCHDIOCESE OF DUBUQUE and it was used as the home of Archbishop Francis J.L. BECKMAN. During the time he lived there, the house was expanded to the south almost doubling the size of the home with additional bedrooms, private chapel, and a two-car garage. In 1945 the home was sold to H. W. (Harry) WAHLERT and his wife, Flora. Upon his death, the Wahlert's donated the home back to the church and it was used as a priest's residence until 1981 when it became a private residence. (1) The home was donated to the UNIVERSITY OF DUBUQUE in 2016 by a benefactor.
In December, 2021 the announcement was made that the university would have the building renovated for the president's home at a cost of $2.3 million. The home would have all mechanical systems replaced, insulation, a kitchen renovation, new garage, an expanded deck area and a circle driveway. (2)
---
Source:
1. Old House Enthusiasts online
2. Hinga, Allie, "University of Dubuque Giving Historic Home $2.3 Million Facelift," Telegraph Herald, December 28, 2021, p. 2a
Dubuque City Assessor