Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
KNIPPEL'S RELIGIOUS GOODS
KNIPPEL'S RELIGIOUS GOODS. In 1907 Mathias KNIPPEL established Knippel's Church and Religious Supply Company at 453 Main Street. During the 1930s, Cecilia (Knippel) O'Rourke began working in and later ran the store with her husband, William O'Rourke, Sr. serving as accountant. Since it was very unusual at the time for a woman to be running her own business, Celicia went by Cecil to encourage people to think a man was operating the business. (1)
When O"Rourke's sons returned from service in WORLD WAR II, they took over the business. Eventually William O'Rourke, Jr. and his family were left to manage the business. (2)
In 1969 the city of Dubuque purchased the original Knippel store as part of URBAN RENEWAL. The business was relocated to the BISHOP'S BLOCK. Not long afterward, a site became available at 129 Main Street. The family spent the summer walking much of their merchandise from the warehouse to the new store which was called Knippel's. (3)
Internet shopping and other concerns led to the owners in September, 2018 to announce they would be closing the business in the fall. (4)
The 1909 through 1968 Dubuque City Directory stated that this business was located at 453 Main.
The 1974 through 1983 Dubuque City Directory listed 129 Main and 233 W. 8th.
The 1987 through 1989 Dubuque City Directory listed Knippel's at 129 Main.
The 1993 Dubuque City Directory listed Knippel's-Church Supplies and Gifts at the same address.
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Source:
1. "175 Years" Vol. II Telegraph Herald, p. 102
2. Ibid.
3. Ibid.
4. Montgomery, Jeff, "After 111 Years, Religious Goods Store to Close," Telegraph Herald, September 19, 2018, p. 1A