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.
CABLE CAR SQUARE
CABLE CAR SQUARE. This charming Dubuque business district of unique shops is located along Bluff Street between Third and Fifth STREETS at the foot of the FOURTH STREET ELEVATOR. Featuring an estimated twenty-two businesses ranging from ice cream parlors to fanciful boutiques, the Square's unique charm was once threatened. Fearing the scenic possibility of the area might be lost, Wayne Andrew NORMAN, Sr. and seven associates formed J. M. Cardinal, S.A. In 1972, the partnership began purchasing, for restoration, Fourth Street area buildings.
By the end of 1985, the partners had recovered their original investment, and Dubuque was provided with one of the city's favorite tourist sites. Weekends from May to October have seen Cable Car Square host over one thousand tourists daily.