Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
VARNER, Charles W.
VARNER, Charles W. (Neosesha, KS, Apr. 23, 1888-- ). Varner left school at the age of thirteen and established a well-drilling business in Platteville, Wisconsin. He moved to Dubuque in May 1906 to establish a partnership with Joseph McFadden. (1)
Varner did all the prospecting work for the Superior Iron and Mining Company which was developing large LEAD mining operations in the area. As mining declined, water well drilling developed and eventually installations of complete water systems became an important part of the business. (2)
Working in cooperation with the Iowa State geologist, Varner devoted much of his time to state geological work. During the GREAT DEPRESSION, he spent weeks in Des Moines lobbying at his expense for the retention of the State Department of Geology and succeeded in his work. He was a leading member of the Iowa Well Drillers Association. (3) In 1936 he served as the Republican committeeman for the 15 precinct. (4)
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Source:
1. Dodge, Edward N. Business Men of Iowa, Des Moines: Midwest Publications, Inc. 1953, p. 748
2. Ibid.
3. Ibid.
4. "Gilloon Will Have Contest," Telegraph-Herald, April 28, 1936, p. 12