Encyclopedia Dubuque
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HODGE, O. F.
HODGE, O. F. (Rochester, Monroe Co., N.Y.--Minneapolis, MN, Nov. 12, 1893). After learning the machinist's trade in Rochester, Hodge came west in 1859 and settled in Dubuque in 1863. He worked for ROUSE AND WILLIAMS and later the shops of the DUBUQUE AND SIOUX CITY RAILROAD. (1)
In 1869, he was a partner in the firm of HODGE & WHITELAW. They continued together six years when it became the American Smelting Company after which he bought his partner's interest and continued the business. (2)
In 1890 with William G. WATTERS he erected the DUBUQUE BRASS AND METAL COMPANY, a new foundry east of the railroad tracks. (3) Fill material prior to construction came from the demolition of the old courthouse. (4)
The company failed around June of 1891 with liabilities of $100,000. (5) He was formerly a fourth ward alderman. (6)
He was buried in LINWOOD CEMETERY.
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Source:
1. Oldt, Franklin. History of Dubuque County, Iowa. Chicago: Western Historical Company, 1880, p. 805-806.
2. Ibid.
3. "Brass Becomes Busted," Dubuque Daily Herald, June 21, 1891, p. 8. Online: https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=_OG5zn83XeQC&dat=18910621&printsec=frontpage&hl=en
4. "News in Brief," Dubuque Daily Herald, September 28, 1890, p. 8
5. "Has Hodge in Hand," Dubuque Daily Herald, December 1, 1891, p. 4