Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
DUBUQUE RIFLES
DUBUQUE RIFLES. Organized in 1873, the Dubuque Rifles "was composed of young men entirely of the best social and business standing in the community." Drills were held and the unit was involved in local parades. (1) In October, Joseph H. Lenehan, secretary of the corps, received a letter from Adjutant-General Baker that 40 Springfield breech loading rifles and 500 rounds of ammunition would be forwarded for their drills. (2)
It was not, however, a state organization and therefore could not rely on state funding to provide equipment. A large "dramatic production" was planned as a means of raising money. This "was a dramatic success, but a financial failure." (3)
The Dubuque Rifles disbanded in May, 1875.
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Source:
1. "Disbanding of the Dubuque Rifles," The Daily Herald, May 8, 1876
2. "Dubuque Rifles," Daily Herald, October 1, 1873, p. 4
3. "Disbanding..."