RHOMBERG, Joseph A. - Revision history

Randylyon at 00:51, 27 February 2026

2026-02-27T00:51:19Z

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	Rhomberg planted and cared for [[ELMS]] along Rhomberg Avenue from [[FIVE POINTS]] to the [[EAGLE POINT]] bluff where [[RHOMBERG PARK]] was located. When drought threatened, he transported water to the trees in a specially constructed cart pulled by his horse and buggy. (7) His interest in the north end of Dubuque included real estate development. In 1873, Rhomberg purchased Ham's entire addition including 600 lots and [[HAM HOUSE]]. Wood's Addition of 100 lots was also included for a total price of $40,000. (8) This would be equal to $800,000 in 2015 prices. (9)		Rhomberg planted and cared for [[ELMS]] along Rhomberg Avenue from [[FIVE POINTS]] to the [[EAGLE POINT]] bluff where [[RHOMBERG PARK]] was located. When drought threatened, he transported water to the trees in a specially constructed cart pulled by his horse and buggy. (7) His interest in the north end of Dubuque included real estate development. In 1873, Rhomberg purchased Ham's entire addition including 600 lots and [[HAM HOUSE]]. Wood's Addition of 100 lots was also included for a total price of $40,000. (8) This would be equal to $800,000 in 2015 prices. (9)

	At the time of his death, Rhomberg gave his wife 95 acres of land and asked that she not sell it unless the property was used as a public park. In 1908, 87 of these acres were sold by the estate to the city. Along with eight more acres sold for one dollar by [[RHOMBERG, Alphonse J.\|Alphonse J. ~~RGOMBERG~~]] this land became [[EAGLE POINT PARK]]. (10) He also had plans to use several hundred acres he purchased near Sageville for a vacation resort to be called "Lakeview." Anticipating the cost to be $200,000, Rhomberg envisioned the creation of a lake by building a 200-foot dam across the Little Maquoketa River. The waters, estimated to have a depth of thirty feet, would be stocked with fish. The surrounding area would be furnished with cottages, boats and, looking toward winter sports, toboggan slides. A three-story hotel was also planned. To encourage visitors, Rhomberg envisioned an extension of the street railway.		At the time of his death, Rhomberg gave his wife 95 acres of land and asked that she not sell it unless the property was used as a public park. In 1908, 87 of these acres were sold by the estate to the city. Along with eight more acres sold for one dollar by [[RHOMBERG, Alphonse J.\|Alphonse J. RHOMBERG]] this land became [[EAGLE POINT PARK]]. (10) He also had plans to use several hundred acres he purchased near Sageville for a vacation resort to be called "Lakeview." Anticipating the cost to be $200,000, Rhomberg envisioned the creation of a lake by building a 200-foot dam across the Little Maquoketa River. The waters, estimated to have a depth of thirty feet, would be stocked with fish. The surrounding area would be furnished with cottages, boats and, looking toward winter sports, toboggan slides. A three-story hotel was also planned. To encourage visitors, Rhomberg envisioned an extension of the street railway.

	Land ownership was an important part of Rhomberg's wealth. In addition to Iowa real estate, he was one the largest landowners in Texas. In 1873 along with Julius K. Graves, Rhomberg was involved in the construction of "tenements" at [[EAGLE POINT]]. Gas and water mains were laid to that part of the city for the use of the residents. (11) In 1886 Rhomberg traveled to Chicago to sell a reported 17 million acres which he owned in partnership with several other businessmen.		Land ownership was an important part of Rhomberg's wealth. In addition to Iowa real estate, he was one the largest landowners in Texas. In 1873 along with Julius K. Graves, Rhomberg was involved in the construction of "tenements" at [[EAGLE POINT]]. Gas and water mains were laid to that part of the city for the use of the residents. (11) In 1886 Rhomberg traveled to Chicago to sell a reported 17 million acres which he owned in partnership with several other businessmen.

Randylyon at 00:50, 27 February 2026

2026-02-27T00:50:30Z

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	[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	~~[[Image:rhombergwindow.JPG\|right\|thumb\|350px\|Stained glass window in St. Mary's Church honoring Mrs. J A. Rhomberg and family]]~~
	[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]		[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]
	[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]		[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]

Randylyon at 22:27, 16 April 2022

2022-04-16T22:27:40Z

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	[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
			[[Image:rhombergwindow.JPG\|right\|thumb\|350px\|Stained glass window in St. Mary's Church honoring Mrs. J A. Rhomberg and family]]
	[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]		[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]
	[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]		[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]

Randylyon at 21:37, 8 June 2021

2021-06-08T21:37:57Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:37, 8 June 2021
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	John Gantenbein built a three-story brick mansion on seven acres on the bluff front to the west of Bluff, north of West 5th Street. Described as a “mansion in the skies” it was purchased by Joseph A. Rhomberg in 1867. Rhomberg rebuilt the house that year except for its exterior walls. A large addition, observatory, and stone retaining walls were added, all of the work, by contractor Robert Armstrong, costing an estimated $200,000.		John Gantenbein built a three-story brick mansion on seven acres on the bluff front to the west of Bluff, north of West 5th Street. Described as a “mansion in the skies” it was purchased by Joseph A. Rhomberg in 1867. Rhomberg rebuilt the house that year except for its exterior walls. A large addition, observatory, and stone retaining walls were added, all of the work, by contractor Robert Armstrong, costing an estimated $200,000.

	In 1868 as Rhomberg purchased what was termed the Boston Mining Company property, that included 60 lots, a dozen houses, three stores and the Jesse Farley vineyards. He widened West 5th Street to 64 feet, macadamized, guttered and added sewer to it. Rhomberg paid to add sidewalks on that street		In 1868 as Rhomberg purchased what was termed the Boston Mining Company property, that included 60 lots, a dozen houses, three stores and the Jesse Farley vineyards. He widened West 5th Street to 64 feet, macadamized, guttered and added sewer to it. Rhomberg paid to add sidewalks on that street or half a mile to the west of Locust Street. He also improved Prospect Street which led off West 5th to his residence. Rhomberg terraced the adjacent Prospect Hill, planting 1,000 trees and 2,000 grape vines. His total 1868 expenditures were $15-25,000.
	~~for~~ half a mile to the west of Locust Street. He also improved Prospect Street which led off West 5th to his residence. Rhomberg terraced the adjacent Prospect Hill, planting 1,000 trees and 2,000 grape vines. His total 1868 expenditures were $15-25,000.

	Rhomberg’s mansion was placed on the corner of Prospect and Rhomberg as of 1873. Rhomberg made $3,000 in improvements on his residence that year.		Rhomberg’s mansion was placed on the corner of Prospect and Rhomberg as of 1873. Rhomberg made $3,000 in improvements on his residence that year.

			The same year he converted his brewery for milling purposes. As the Daily Herald writers remarked, the building without remodeling had a storage fapacity of 150,000 bushels of grain and two run of stone. Rhomberg needed to purchase four or five more run of stone and the needed "bolting cloth." A side track from the railroad to the mill needed to be constructed. (1)

	Now a mixture of [[GREEK REVIVAL ARCHITECTURE]] and [[ITALIAN VILLA ARCHITECTURE]], the plan of the house is square. It once had a belvedere on the roof and the columned facade has been changed. On the original house, both the first and second stories had decks with ornamental railings. In keeping with one of his businesses, Rhomberg had a wine cellar constructed that now reaches beneath West 7th Street.		Now a mixture of [[GREEK REVIVAL ARCHITECTURE]] and [[ITALIAN VILLA ARCHITECTURE]], the plan of the house is square. It once had a belvedere on the roof and the columned facade has been changed. On the original house, both the first and second stories had decks with ornamental railings. In keeping with one of his businesses, Rhomberg had a wine cellar constructed that now reaches beneath West 7th Street.

	In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (1) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (2) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].		In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (2) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (3) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].

	With [[GRAVES, Julius K.\|Julius K. GRAVES]], Rhomberg and others organized the [[CHICAGO, DUBUQUE AND MINNESOTA RAILROAD]], [[CHICAGO, CLINTON AND DUBUQUE RAILROAD]], and the Austin and Northwestern Rail Road Company in Texas. He served as the first vice-president and superintendent of the Chicago, Clinton and Dubuque Railroad in 1876 when it announced plans to extend its line south of Clinton through Princeton, LeClaire and Pleasant Valley to Davenport and then the coal fields near Muscatine. (3) He was the final president of the line before it was sold. (4) Rhomberg and Graves were also responsible for the construction of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul shops in Dubuque. Rhomberg was one of the organizers and owners of the [[DUBUQUE STREET RAILWAY COMPANY]]. (5)		With [[GRAVES, Julius K.\|Julius K. GRAVES]], Rhomberg and others organized the [[CHICAGO, DUBUQUE AND MINNESOTA RAILROAD]], [[CHICAGO, CLINTON AND DUBUQUE RAILROAD]], and the Austin and Northwestern Rail Road Company in Texas. He served as the first vice-president and superintendent of the Chicago, Clinton and Dubuque Railroad in 1876 when it announced plans to extend its line south of Clinton through Princeton, LeClaire and Pleasant Valley to Davenport and then the coal fields near Muscatine. (4) He was the final president of the line before it was sold. (5) Rhomberg and Graves were also responsible for the construction of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul shops in Dubuque. Rhomberg was one of the organizers and owners of the [[DUBUQUE STREET RAILWAY COMPANY]]. (6)

	Rhomberg planted and cared for [[ELMS]] along Rhomberg Avenue from [[FIVE POINTS]] to the [[EAGLE POINT]] bluff where [[RHOMBERG PARK]] was located. When drought threatened, he transported water to the trees in a specially constructed cart pulled by his horse and buggy. (6) His interest in the north end of Dubuque included real estate development. In 1873, Rhomberg purchased Ham's entire addition including 600 lots and [[HAM HOUSE]]. Wood's Addition of 100 lots was also included for a total price of $40,000. (7) This would be equal to $800,000 in 2015 prices. (8)		Rhomberg planted and cared for [[ELMS]] along Rhomberg Avenue from [[FIVE POINTS]] to the [[EAGLE POINT]] bluff where [[RHOMBERG PARK]] was located. When drought threatened, he transported water to the trees in a specially constructed cart pulled by his horse and buggy. (7) His interest in the north end of Dubuque included real estate development. In 1873, Rhomberg purchased Ham's entire addition including 600 lots and [[HAM HOUSE]]. Wood's Addition of 100 lots was also included for a total price of $40,000. (8) This would be equal to $800,000 in 2015 prices. (9)

	At the time of his death, Rhomberg gave his wife 95 acres of land and asked that she not sell it unless the property was used as a public park. In 1908, 87 of these acres were sold by the estate to the city. Along with eight more acres sold for one dollar by [[RHOMBERG, Alphonse J.\|Alphonse J. RGOMBERG]] this land became [[EAGLE POINT PARK]]. (9) He also had plans to use several hundred acres he purchased near Sageville for a vacation resort to be called "Lakeview." Anticipating the cost to be $200,000, Rhomberg envisioned the creation of a lake by building a 200-foot dam across the Little Maquoketa River. The waters, estimated to have a depth of thirty feet, would be stocked with fish. The surrounding area would be furnished with cottages, boats and, looking toward winter sports, toboggan slides. A three-story hotel was also planned. To encourage visitors, Rhomberg envisioned an extension of the street railway.		At the time of his death, Rhomberg gave his wife 95 acres of land and asked that she not sell it unless the property was used as a public park. In 1908, 87 of these acres were sold by the estate to the city. Along with eight more acres sold for one dollar by [[RHOMBERG, Alphonse J.\|Alphonse J. RGOMBERG]] this land became [[EAGLE POINT PARK]]. (10) He also had plans to use several hundred acres he purchased near Sageville for a vacation resort to be called "Lakeview." Anticipating the cost to be $200,000, Rhomberg envisioned the creation of a lake by building a 200-foot dam across the Little Maquoketa River. The waters, estimated to have a depth of thirty feet, would be stocked with fish. The surrounding area would be furnished with cottages, boats and, looking toward winter sports, toboggan slides. A three-story hotel was also planned. To encourage visitors, Rhomberg envisioned an extension of the street railway.

	Land ownership was an important part of Rhomberg's wealth. In addition to Iowa real estate, he was one the largest landowners in Texas. In 1873 along with Julius K. Graves, Rhomberg was involved in the construction of "tenements" at [[EAGLE POINT]]. Gas and water mains were laid to that part of the city for the use of the residents. (10) In 1886 Rhomberg traveled to Chicago to sell a reported 17 million acres which he owned in partnership with several other businessmen.		Land ownership was an important part of Rhomberg's wealth. In addition to Iowa real estate, he was one the largest landowners in Texas. In 1873 along with Julius K. Graves, Rhomberg was involved in the construction of "tenements" at [[EAGLE POINT]]. Gas and water mains were laid to that part of the city for the use of the residents. (11) In 1886 Rhomberg traveled to Chicago to sell a reported 17 million acres which he owned in partnership with several other businessmen.

	On the death of Rhomberg, most of his fortune was invested in unimproved real estate around Dubuque. Due to the slow growth of Dubuque in the succeeding years, the property could not be sold, and many less desirable lots were given up for taxes. It was not until forty years after his death that the estate of this prominent Dubuque resident was settled. He is remembered in Dubuque by the naming of Rhomberg Avenue. (11)		On the death of Rhomberg, most of his fortune was invested in unimproved real estate around Dubuque. Due to the slow growth of Dubuque in the succeeding years, the property could not be sold, and many less desirable lots were given up for taxes. It was not until forty years after his death that the estate of this prominent Dubuque resident was settled. He is remembered in Dubuque by the naming of Rhomberg Avenue. (12)

	---		---
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	1. "The Rhomberg Case," ''Dubuque Herald'', October 15, 1876, p. 4. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=uh8FjILnQOkC&dat=18761015&printsec=frontpage&hl=en		1. "The New Mill," Daily Herald, April 26, 1873, 4

			2. "The Rhomberg Case," ''Dubuque Herald'', October 15, 1876, p. 4. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=uh8FjILnQOkC&dat=18761015&printsec=frontpage&hl=en

	2. Oldt, Franklin T. '''History of Dubuque County, Iowa'''. Chicago: Western Historical Company, 1880.		3. Oldt, Franklin T. '''History of Dubuque County, Iowa'''. Chicago: Western Historical Company, 1880.
	Online: https://play.google.com/books/reader?id=u9xDAAAAYAAJ&printsec=frontcover&output=reader&hl=en&pg=GBS.PA866		Online: https://play.google.com/books/reader?id=u9xDAAAAYAAJ&printsec=frontcover&output=reader&hl=en&pg=GBS.PA866

	3. "River Railroad Extension," ''The Daily Herald'', June 10, 1876, p. 4		4. "River Railroad Extension," ''The Daily Herald'', June 10, 1876, p. 4

	4. Oldt		5. Oldt

	5. Ibid.		6. Ibid.

	6. "Dubuque Woman Publishes Memoir," ''Telegraph Herald,'' November 9, 2008, p. 44		7. "Dubuque Woman Publishes Memoir," ''Telegraph Herald,'' November 9, 2008, p. 44

	7. "Rhomberg's Purchase," ''Dubuque Herald'', May 6, 1873, p. 4. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=uh8FjILnQOkC&dat=18730506&printsec=frontpage&hl=en		8. "Rhomberg's Purchase," ''Dubuque Herald'', May 6, 1873, p. 4. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=uh8FjILnQOkC&dat=18730506&printsec=frontpage&hl=en

	8. Inflation Calculator		9. Inflation Calculator

	9. "Dubuque Woman..."		10. "Dubuque Woman..."

	10. "Eagle Point Tenements," ''Dubuque Herald'', March 23, 1873, p. 4. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=uh8FjILnQOkC&dat=18730323&printsec=frontpage&hl=en		11. "Eagle Point Tenements," ''Dubuque Herald'', March 23, 1873, p. 4. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=uh8FjILnQOkC&dat=18730323&printsec=frontpage&hl=en

	11. Goodspeed, Weston Arthur, '''History of Dubuque County, Iowa'''. Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association, 1911, p. 533		12. Goodspeed, Weston Arthur, '''History of Dubuque County, Iowa'''. Chicago: Goodspeed Historical Association, 1911, p. 533

Randylyon at 03:28, 15 November 2019

2019-11-15T03:28:23Z

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	[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\| Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]		[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]
	[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]		[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]
	[[File:jar1.JPG\|250px\|thumb\|left\|The first known picture of the house. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]		[[File:jar1.JPG\|250px\|thumb\|left\|The first known picture of the house. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]

Randylyon at 03:27, 15 November 2019

2019-11-15T03:27:49Z

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	[[Category: Business Leader]]		[[Category: Business Leader]]
	[[Category: Environmental]]		[[Category: Environmental]]
			[[Category: Homes]]

Randylyon at 03:27, 15 November 2019

2019-11-15T03:27:09Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:27, 15 November 2019
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	[[Image:JAR.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|c. 2014 looking southwest]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.		[[Image:JAR.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|c. 2014 looking southwest]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.

	John Gantenbein built a three-story brick mansion on seven acres on the bluff front to the west of Bluff, north of West 5th Street. Described as a “mansion in the skies” it was purchased by ~~[[RHOMBERG,~~ Joseph A.~~\|Joseph A. RHOMBERG]]~~ in 1867. Rhomberg rebuilt the house that year except for its exterior walls. A large addition and ~~observatory were added. Rhomberg also added~~ stone retaining walls, all of the work, by contractor Robert Armstrong, costing an estimated $~~50-~~200,000.		John Gantenbein built a three-story brick mansion on seven acres on the bluff front to the west of Bluff, north of West 5th Street. Described as a “mansion in the skies” it was purchased by Joseph A. Rhomberg in 1867. Rhomberg rebuilt the house that year except for its exterior walls. A large addition, observatory, and stone retaining walls were added, all of the work, by contractor Robert Armstrong, costing an estimated $200,000.

	In 1868 as Rhomberg purchased what was termed the Boston Mining Company property, that included 60 lots, a dozen houses, three stores and the Jesse Farley vineyards. He widened West 5th Street to 64 feet, macadamized, guttered and added sewer to it. Rhomberg paid to add sidewalks on that street		In 1868 as Rhomberg purchased what was termed the Boston Mining Company property, that included 60 lots, a dozen houses, three stores and the Jesse Farley vineyards. He widened West 5th Street to 64 feet, macadamized, guttered and added sewer to it. Rhomberg paid to add sidewalks on that street

Randylyon at 03:25, 15 November 2019

2019-11-15T03:25:14Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:25, 15 November 2019
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	[[Image:JAR.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|c. 2014 looking southwest]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.		[[Image:JAR.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|c. 2014 looking southwest]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.

	In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (1) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was ~~finally~~ seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (2) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].		John Gantenbein built a three-story brick mansion on seven acres on the bluff front to the west of Bluff, north of West 5th Street. Described as a “mansion in the skies” it was purchased by [[RHOMBERG, Joseph A.\|Joseph A. RHOMBERG]] in 1867. Rhomberg rebuilt the house that year except for its exterior walls. A large addition and observatory were added. Rhomberg also added stone retaining walls, all of the work, by contractor Robert Armstrong, costing an estimated $50-200,000.

			In 1868 as Rhomberg purchased what was termed the Boston Mining Company property, that included 60 lots, a dozen houses, three stores and the Jesse Farley vineyards. He widened West 5th Street to 64 feet, macadamized, guttered and added sewer to it. Rhomberg paid to add sidewalks on that street
			for half a mile to the west of Locust Street. He also improved Prospect Street which led off West 5th to his residence. Rhomberg terraced the adjacent Prospect Hill, planting 1,000 trees and 2,000 grape vines. His total 1868 expenditures were $15-25,000.

			Rhomberg’s mansion was placed on the corner of Prospect and Rhomberg as of 1873. Rhomberg made $3,000 in improvements on his residence that year.

			Now a mixture of [[GREEK REVIVAL ARCHITECTURE]] and [[ITALIAN VILLA ARCHITECTURE]], the plan of the house is square. It once had a belvedere on the roof and the columned facade has been changed. On the original house, both the first and second stories had decks with ornamental railings. In keeping with one of his businesses, Rhomberg had a wine cellar constructed that now reaches beneath West 7th Street.

			In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (1) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (2) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].

	With [[GRAVES, Julius K.\|Julius K. GRAVES]], Rhomberg and others organized the [[CHICAGO, DUBUQUE AND MINNESOTA RAILROAD]], [[CHICAGO, CLINTON AND DUBUQUE RAILROAD]], and the Austin and Northwestern Rail Road Company in Texas. He served as the first vice-president and superintendent of the Chicago, Clinton and Dubuque Railroad in 1876 when it announced plans to extend its line south of Clinton through Princeton, LeClaire and Pleasant Valley to Davenport and then the coal fields near Muscatine. (3) He was the final president of the line before it was sold. (4) Rhomberg and Graves were also responsible for the construction of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul shops in Dubuque. Rhomberg was one of the organizers and owners of the [[DUBUQUE STREET RAILWAY COMPANY]]. (5)		With [[GRAVES, Julius K.\|Julius K. GRAVES]], Rhomberg and others organized the [[CHICAGO, DUBUQUE AND MINNESOTA RAILROAD]], [[CHICAGO, CLINTON AND DUBUQUE RAILROAD]], and the Austin and Northwestern Rail Road Company in Texas. He served as the first vice-president and superintendent of the Chicago, Clinton and Dubuque Railroad in 1876 when it announced plans to extend its line south of Clinton through Princeton, LeClaire and Pleasant Valley to Davenport and then the coal fields near Muscatine. (3) He was the final president of the line before it was sold. (4) Rhomberg and Graves were also responsible for the construction of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul shops in Dubuque. Rhomberg was one of the organizers and owners of the [[DUBUQUE STREET RAILWAY COMPANY]]. (5)

	Rhomberg planted and cared for [[ELMS]] along Rhomberg Avenue from [[FIVE POINTS]] to the [[EAGLE POINT]] bluff where [[RHOMBERG PARK]] was located. When drought threatened, he transported water to the trees in a specially constructed cart pulled by his horse and buggy. (6)		Rhomberg planted and cared for [[ELMS]] along Rhomberg Avenue from [[FIVE POINTS]] to the [[EAGLE POINT]] bluff where [[RHOMBERG PARK]] was located. When drought threatened, he transported water to the trees in a specially constructed cart pulled by his horse and buggy. (6) His interest in the north end of Dubuque included real estate development. In 1873, Rhomberg purchased Ham's entire addition including 600 lots and [[HAM HOUSE]]. Wood's Addition of 100 lots was also included for a total price of $40,000. (7) This would be equal to $800,000 in 2015 prices. (8)

	~~Rhomberg's~~ interest in the north end of Dubuque included real estate development. In 1873, Rhomberg purchased Ham's entire addition including 600 lots and [[HAM HOUSE]]. Wood's Addition of 100 lots was also included for a total price of $40,000. (7) This would be equal to $800,000 in 2015 prices. (8)

	At the time of his death, Rhomberg gave his wife 95 acres of land and asked that she not sell it unless the property was used as a public park. In 1908, 87 of these acres were sold by the estate to the city. Along with eight more acres sold for one dollar by [[RHOMBERG, Alphonse J.\|Alphonse J. RGOMBERG]] this land became [[EAGLE POINT PARK]]. (9) He also had plans to use several hundred acres he purchased near Sageville for a vacation resort to be called "Lakeview." Anticipating the cost to be $200,000, Rhomberg envisioned the creation of a lake by building a 200-foot dam across the Little Maquoketa River. The waters, estimated to have a depth of thirty feet, would be stocked with fish. The surrounding area would be furnished with cottages, boats and, looking toward winter sports, toboggan slides. A three-story hotel was also planned. To encourage visitors, Rhomberg envisioned an extension of the street railway.		At the time of his death, Rhomberg gave his wife 95 acres of land and asked that she not sell it unless the property was used as a public park. In 1908, 87 of these acres were sold by the estate to the city. Along with eight more acres sold for one dollar by [[RHOMBERG, Alphonse J.\|Alphonse J. RGOMBERG]] this land became [[EAGLE POINT PARK]]. (9) He also had plans to use several hundred acres he purchased near Sageville for a vacation resort to be called "Lakeview." Anticipating the cost to be $200,000, Rhomberg envisioned the creation of a lake by building a 200-foot dam across the Little Maquoketa River. The waters, estimated to have a depth of thirty feet, would be stocked with fish. The surrounding area would be furnished with cottages, boats and, looking toward winter sports, toboggan slides. A three-story hotel was also planned. To encourage visitors, Rhomberg envisioned an extension of the street railway.
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	On the death of Rhomberg, most of his fortune was invested in unimproved real estate around Dubuque. Due to the slow growth of Dubuque in the succeeding years, the property could not be sold, and many less desirable lots were given up for taxes. It was not until forty years after his death that the estate of this prominent Dubuque resident was settled. He is remembered in Dubuque by the naming of Rhomberg Avenue. (11)		On the death of Rhomberg, most of his fortune was invested in unimproved real estate around Dubuque. Due to the slow growth of Dubuque in the succeeding years, the property could not be sold, and many less desirable lots were given up for taxes. It was not until forty years after his death that the estate of this prominent Dubuque resident was settled. He is remembered in Dubuque by the naming of Rhomberg Avenue. (11)

	~~See: [[JOSEPH A. RHOMBERG-508 W. 7TH]]~~

	---		---

Randylyon at 03:14, 15 November 2019

2019-11-15T03:14:15Z

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	[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\| Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.		[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\| Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]
			[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]
			[[File:jar1.JPG\|250px\|thumb\|left\|The first known picture of the house. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]
			[[File:jar2.JPG\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Joseph Rhomberg house in the mid-1800s looking northwest.Image courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]
			[[Image:JAR.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|c. 2014 looking southwest]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.

	In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (1) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was finally seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (2) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].		In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (1) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was finally seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (2) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].

Randylyon at 03:13, 15 November 2019

2019-11-15T03:13:08Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:13, 15 November 2019
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	Family History: http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=ftm109&id=I11497		Family History: http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=ftm109&id=I11497

	[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.		[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
			[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\| Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.

	In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (1) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was finally seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (2) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].		In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (1) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was finally seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (2) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:50, 27 February 2026
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	[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	~~[[Image:rhombergwindow.JPG\|right\|thumb\|350px\|Stained glass window in St. Mary's Church honoring Mrs. J A. Rhomberg and family]]~~
	[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]		[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]
	[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]		[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:27, 16 April 2022
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	[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
			[[Image:rhombergwindow.JPG\|right\|thumb\|350px\|Stained glass window in St. Mary's Church honoring Mrs. J A. Rhomberg and family]]
	[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]		[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]
	[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]		[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:28, 15 November 2019
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	[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\| Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]		[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\|508 West 7th. Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]
	[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]		[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]
	[[File:jar1.JPG\|250px\|thumb\|left\|The first known picture of the house. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]		[[File:jar1.JPG\|250px\|thumb\|left\|The first known picture of the house. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:14, 15 November 2019
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	[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:P1000340.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|Joseph A. Rhomberg. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\| Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.		[[Image:RHOMBERGJAT.png\|left\|thumb\|350px\| Photo courtesy: Old House Enthusiasts' Club House Tour, 1990]]
			[[File:jar3.jpg\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Capping the bluff and overlooking the city. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]
			[[File:jar1.JPG\|250px\|thumb\|left\|The first known picture of the house. Photo courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]
			[[File:jar2.JPG\|250px\|thumb\|left\|Joseph Rhomberg house in the mid-1800s looking northwest.Image courtesy: Joan Wurtz]]
			[[Image:JAR.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|c. 2014 looking southwest]]RHOMBERG, Joseph A. (Dornbirn, Province of Vorarlberg, Austria, Jan. 12, 1833--Dubuque, IA, May 17, 1897). Arriving in Dubuque in 1854, Rhomberg became associated in many prosperous industries in the city. In 1864 Rhomberg & Co., distillers, operated sixteen fermenting tubs, each with a capacity of 300 barrels; three high wine receivers of 200 barrels capacity each, and could handle when working at its best 1,000 bushels of grain per day. This distillery was put in full operation late in 1864.

	In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (1) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was finally seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (2) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].		In 1876 the famous suit of the government against J. A. Rhomberg & Co. for about $755,000 was begun. (1) The claim was that the Rhomberg company had manufactured some 9,000 or 10,000 barrels of whiskey or distilled spirits upon which it had paid no revenue. The property of Mr. Rhomberg was finally seized, but every step was fought in the courts. The case finally came up in the United States Circuit Court at Des Moines and a judgment for $103,000 was secured against Mr. Rhomberg. Green B. Raum, commissioner of internal revenue, said there was no doubt as to the justness of the government's contention; but Mr. Rhomberg's friends here declared their belief in his innocence. The building was converted into the [[IOWA PACIFIC MILL]]. (2) The land was later occupied by the [[DUBUQUE STAR BREWING COMPANY]].