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.
CITY HOTEL
CITY HOTEL. Famed Dubuque landmark on the northwest corner of Fourth and Main STREETS. Erected in 1833, the hotel was constructed by John G. Shields and J. H. Emerson, father and uncle respectively, of James H. SHIELDS. In 1858 the building, host to many of the nation's best known political and entertainment personalities, was converted into the COATES OPERA HOUSE. The 1874-1875 Dubuque City Directory stated that this business was located on Clay between 5th and 6th.