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.
BARNEY, William J.
BARNEY, William J. (Unknown--New York, NY, Jan. 6, 1886). Barney, one of the Midwest's most talented draftsmen, was one of Dubuque's most prominent land speculators and bankers from 1850 to 1862. In the firm of W. J. BARNEY AND COMPANY, he was an associate of Caleb H. BOOTH in land and banking until 1857. During their partnership, transactions occurred involving an estimated 800,000 acres of land. Barney entered legal practice in the firm of Barney, Barker and Chaplain and later with an attorney named Dillon.
A cultured person, Barney lavishly entertained Dubuque society. In 1862 he left the city for Chicago where he was equally successful.