DIXON, Samuel D.

DIXON, Samuel D. (New Orleans, LA, July 4, 1836--New Orleans, LA, Feb. 15, 1877). MAYOR. Dixon came to Dubuque in 1837. In 1839 when he was elected a member of the board of town trustees, he had one of the first brick homes constructed in the city. Still standing in 1934, the two story building was located at the corner of 10th and Main. The flooring of the building was native oak with baseboards of black walnut. Leading from the first floor to the second was a balustrade made of cherry. Despite its location and style, the home was blocked from view for years by a high board fence. (1)

In 1841 Dubuque was incorporated and granted a special charter by the state legislature. In 1842 Dixon was elected the second mayor of Dubuque and served one term. (2) Among the activities of the city government during his term of office were the following: (3)

1) On May 9, 1842, the council prepared a memorial to Congress asking that body to donate to the city authorities the islands in the Mississippi river opposite the city; the memorial was forwarded to Hon A. C. Dodge, delegate in Congress.

2)The erection of a market house was first broached June 20, 1842 and again considered on July 11.

3) The council, in October, 1842, inquired into the expediency of erecting bridges across the sloughs, so that access to the main CHANNEL of the river could be secured.

4)In December the fire company petitioned for ladders and hooks which were made for them by Joseph Ogilby upon order of the council.

5)The fire engine was ordered transferred to a company of firemen formed about this time.

Prior to returning to New Orleans where he married and remained the rest of his life, Dixon held the office of city auditor. It is known that in 1864 he purchased a house and lot for $725 which was considered "a bargain." (4) That year he was appointed a clerk for the 4th Ward during the municipal elections. (5)

Other events in the community during his time as mayor can be found by writing 1842 in the search feature of this encyclopedia.

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Source:

1. "One of Dubuque's Oldest Houses," Telegraph-Herald, March 4, 1934, p. 13

2. Ibid.

3. Oldt, Franklin T. History of Dubuque County, Iowa. http://www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/franklin-t-oldt/history-of-dubuque-county-iowa-being-a-general-survey-of-dubuque-county-histor-tdl/page-8-history-of-dubuque-county-iowa-being-a-general-survey-of-dubuque-county-histor-tdl.shtml

4. "Sale," Dubuque Herald, June 12 1864, p. 4

5. "Common Council," Dubuque Herald, March 4, 1864, p. 4