UNION PARK - Revision history

Randylyon at 21:52, 30 November 2025

2025-11-30T21:52:47Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:52, 30 November 2025
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	[[Image:imp373.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|On the way to Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp373.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|On the way to Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:carentrance.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Loemker, Herman J., 1868-1937, “[Automobile entrance to Eagle Point Park in Dubuque, Iowa],” Loras College Digital Collections, accessed September 14, 2016, https://digitalcollections.loras.edu/items/show/533.]]		[[Image:carentrance.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Loemker, Herman J., 1868-1937, “[Automobile entrance to Eagle Point Park in Dubuque, Iowa],” Loras College Digital Collections, accessed September 14, 2016, https://digitalcollections.loras.edu/items/show/533.]]
			[[Image:8105.PNG\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Recently discovered photo. Photo courtesy: Carol A. Lester Siegworth / Loras College]]

	UNION PARK. The [[DUBUQUE ELECTRIC RAILWAY, LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY]], known locally as the Allen and Swiney Motor Line Company, purchased forty acres of land from the farm of [[STEWART, William G.\|William G. STEWART]] on March 6, 1891 with an option on two hundred more. (1) The company owners, new to the community, desired a way to popularize the use of electricity. The company had been in a heated battle with [[RHOMBERG, Joseph A.\|Joseph A. RHOMBERG]] to stay in existence since 1890. (2) The idea of a park at the end of their trolley line promised to give them needed publicity. (3)		UNION PARK. The [[DUBUQUE ELECTRIC RAILWAY, LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY]], known locally as the Allen and Swiney Motor Line Company, purchased forty acres of land from the farm of [[STEWART, William G.\|William G. STEWART]] on March 6, 1891 with an option on two hundred more. (1) The company owners, new to the community, desired a way to popularize the use of electricity. The company had been in a heated battle with [[RHOMBERG, Joseph A.\|Joseph A. RHOMBERG]] to stay in existence since 1890. (2) The idea of a park at the end of their trolley line promised to give them needed publicity. (3)

Randylyon at 01:43, 22 March 2023

2023-03-22T01:43:38Z

Randylyon at 01:39, 22 March 2023

2023-03-22T01:39:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:39, 22 March 2023
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	[[Image:gazebodes.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Destruction of gazebo. Photo courtesy: Bob Johnsen]]		[[Image:gazebodes.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Destruction of gazebo. Photo courtesy: Bob Johnsen]]
	[[Image:unionp-4.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|The Playground. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:unionp-4.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|The Playground. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	~~[Image:zip.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Zipline illustration. Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]~~

Randylyon at 01:38, 22 March 2023

2023-03-22T01:38:29Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:38, 22 March 2023
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	By 1906 the lack of more activities at Union Park was leading to the call for another park in the city.		By 1906 the lack of more activities at Union Park was leading to the call for another park in the city.

	The two parks we do possess have nothing inviting in them after one		The two parks we do possess have nothing
	does get there. The ride to them is quite the only enjoyable feature.		inviting in them after one does get there.
	It is hoped...that the tired mother may take her fretful flock for an		The ride to them is quite the only enjoyable
	outing in the bosom of nature." (12)		feature. It is hoped...that the tired mother
			may take her fretful flock for an outing in
			the bosom of nature." (12)

	Perhaps in response, four new sixty-foot long [[BRUNSWICK-BALKE-COLLENDER COMPANY]] alleys were ordered for Union Park in May, 1906. The old bowling alley was torn down and a new lighted pavilion was erected on the same site. The new hall was to be provided with "pleasant seating accommodations" for those wishing to watch. Representatives of Union Electric commented that the pleasant surroundings "in the cool country" would allow local bowlers to escape the cellars in which most alleys were located. To encourage leagues to move their business to the park, a regular schedule of bowling was planned with a Union Electric Loving Cup offered as a prize for competition. The lanes would also be loaned out to private parties. (13)		Perhaps in response, four new sixty-foot long [[BRUNSWICK-BALKE-COLLENDER COMPANY]] alleys were ordered for Union Park in May, 1906. The old bowling alley was torn down and a new lighted pavilion was erected on the same site. The new hall was to be provided with "pleasant seating accommodations" for those wishing to watch. Representatives of Union Electric commented that the pleasant surroundings "in the cool country" would allow local bowlers to escape the cellars in which most alleys were located. To encourage leagues to move their business to the park, a regular schedule of bowling was planned with a Union Electric Loving Cup offered as a prize for competition. The lanes would also be loaned out to private parties. (13)

Randylyon at 01:35, 22 March 2023

2023-03-22T01:35:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:35, 22 March 2023
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	[[Image:pavilion.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Union Park's pavilion. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:pavilion.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Union Park's pavilion. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]
	[[Image:circlestop.jpg\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:circlestop.jpg\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]
			[[Image:STOOL.JPG\|left\|thumb\|200px\|This stool was used by the Union Electric ticket handlers to accept tickets from passengers riding the electric trolley to Union Park in the early 1900s.]]
	[[Image:promade.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Pavilion at the streetcar tracks]]		[[Image:promade.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Pavilion at the streetcar tracks]]
	[[Image:promade2.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|]]		[[Image:promade2.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|]]

Randylyon at 03:24, 21 October 2022

2022-10-21T03:24:57Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:24, 21 October 2022
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	[[Image:UNIONPARKGENERAL.gif\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Beautiful scenery made Union Park a local favorite.]]		[[Image:UNIONPARKGENERAL.gif\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Beautiful scenery made Union Park a local favorite.]]
	[[Image:unionpark-6.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|]]		[[Image:unionpark-6.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|]]
	In the first of many changes, the park was renamed Union Park, honoring the names of the new owners. New track was laid out to the park. The dance hall was remodeled with the addition of large porches, ~~and~~ a bowling alley was designed, pins and balls were purchased~~, and the scheduled opening was set for July 12, 1901~~. (11) The replacement of incandescent lamps with new lights powered through wires strung from the [[DUBUQUE SHOOTING PARK]] cost Union Electric an estimated five hundred dollars.		In the first of many changes, the park was renamed Union Park, honoring the names of the new owners. New track was laid out to the park. The dance hall was remodeled with the addition of large porches, a bowling alley was designed, and pins and balls were purchased.(11) The replacement of incandescent lamps with new lights powered through wires strung from the [[DUBUQUE SHOOTING PARK]] cost Union Electric an estimated five hundred dollars.

	[[Image:twogirls.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|]]		[[Image:twogirls.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|]]

Randylyon at 22:20, 20 October 2022

2022-10-20T22:20:18Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:20, 20 October 2022
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	[[Image:UNIONPARKGENERAL.gif\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Beautiful scenery made Union Park a local favorite.]]		[[Image:UNIONPARKGENERAL.gif\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Beautiful scenery made Union Park a local favorite.]]
	[[Image:unionpark-6.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|]]		[[Image:unionpark-6.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|]]
	In the first of many changes, the park was renamed Union Park, honoring the names of the new owners. New track was laid out to the park. The dance hall was remodeled with the addition of large porches, and a bowling alley was designed, pins and balls were purchased, and the scheduled opening was set for July 12, ~~1891~~. (11) The replacement of incandescent lamps with new lights powered through wires strung from the [[DUBUQUE SHOOTING PARK]] cost Union Electric an estimated five hundred dollars.		In the first of many changes, the park was renamed Union Park, honoring the names of the new owners. New track was laid out to the park. The dance hall was remodeled with the addition of large porches, and a bowling alley was designed, pins and balls were purchased, and the scheduled opening was set for July 12, 1901. (11) The replacement of incandescent lamps with new lights powered through wires strung from the [[DUBUQUE SHOOTING PARK]] cost Union Electric an estimated five hundred dollars.

	[[Image:twogirls.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|]]		[[Image:twogirls.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|]]

Randylyon at 18:27, 8 July 2022

2022-07-08T18:27:45Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:27, 8 July 2022
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	outing in the bosom of nature." (12)		outing in the bosom of nature." (12)

	Perhaps in response, four new sixty-foot long [[~~BRUNWICK~~-BALKE-COLLENDER]] alleys were ordered for Union Park in May, 1906. The old bowling alley was torn down and a new lighted pavilion was erected on the same site. The new hall was to be provided with "pleasant seating accommodations" for those wishing to watch. Representatives of Union Electric commented that the pleasant surroundings "in the cool country" would allow local bowlers to escape the cellars in which most alleys were located. To encourage leagues to move their business to the park, a regular schedule of bowling was planned with a Union Electric Loving Cup offered as a prize for competition. The lanes would also be loaned out to private parties. (13)		Perhaps in response, four new sixty-foot long [[BRUNSWICK-BALKE-COLLENDER COMPANY]] alleys were ordered for Union Park in May, 1906. The old bowling alley was torn down and a new lighted pavilion was erected on the same site. The new hall was to be provided with "pleasant seating accommodations" for those wishing to watch. Representatives of Union Electric commented that the pleasant surroundings "in the cool country" would allow local bowlers to escape the cellars in which most alleys were located. To encourage leagues to move their business to the park, a regular schedule of bowling was planned with a Union Electric Loving Cup offered as a prize for competition. The lanes would also be loaned out to private parties. (13)

	More land was purchased in 1908, and a children's playground was developed with every type of equipment including slides, swings and carousels. A roller coaster made of wood was generally thought too "rickety" by parents who kept their children away. The jerky ride often sent straw hats flying-into a fishpond. Steamy August days were momentarily defeated by a casual walk through a cave discovered in 1900.		More land was purchased in 1908, and a children's playground was developed with every type of equipment including slides, swings and carousels. A roller coaster made of wood was generally thought too "rickety" by parents who kept their children away. The jerky ride often sent straw hats flying-into a fishpond. Steamy August days were momentarily defeated by a casual walk through a cave discovered in 1900.

Randylyon at 18:26, 8 July 2022

2022-07-08T18:26:04Z

Show changes

Randylyon at 23:59, 25 October 2021

2021-10-25T23:59:09Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:59, 25 October 2021
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	[[Image:pavilion.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Union Park's pavilion. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:pavilion.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Union Park's pavilion. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]
	[[Image:circlestop.jpg\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:circlestop.jpg\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]
	[[Image:~~promde~~.~~jpg~~\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Pavilion at the streetcar tracks]]		[[Image:promade.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Pavilion at the streetcar tracks]]
	[[Image:promade2.~~jpg~~\|left\|thumb\|300px\|]]		[[Image:promade2.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|]]

	Construction of their single track trolley preceded the building of trails and pathways on the park property. Since the line was a single track, switches like those on the [[FOURTH STREET ELEVATOR]] were used. The line would bow out on both sides creating a two-track system that allowed outgoing and returning cars to pass. Reaching out Couler Valley (now Highway 52 North), the line required the construction of eleven bridges. The name Allen and Swiney chose for their completed project was "Stewart Park," to honor William G. Stewart. Some accounts suggest the park was named in honor of [[MAYOR]] [[STEWART, Robert W.\|Robert W. Stewart]].		Construction of their single track trolley preceded the building of trails and pathways on the park property. Since the line was a single track, switches like those on the [[FOURTH STREET ELEVATOR]] were used. The line would bow out on both sides creating a two-track system that allowed outgoing and returning cars to pass. Reaching out Couler Valley (now Highway 52 North), the line required the construction of eleven bridges. The name Allen and Swiney chose for their completed project was "Stewart Park," to honor William G. Stewart. Some accounts suggest the park was named in honor of [[MAYOR]] [[STEWART, Robert W.\|Robert W. Stewart]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:52, 30 November 2025
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	[[Image:imp373.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|On the way to Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp373.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|On the way to Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:carentrance.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Loemker, Herman J., 1868-1937, “[Automobile entrance to Eagle Point Park in Dubuque, Iowa],” Loras College Digital Collections, accessed September 14, 2016, https://digitalcollections.loras.edu/items/show/533.]]		[[Image:carentrance.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Loemker, Herman J., 1868-1937, “[Automobile entrance to Eagle Point Park in Dubuque, Iowa],” Loras College Digital Collections, accessed September 14, 2016, https://digitalcollections.loras.edu/items/show/533.]]
			[[Image:8105.PNG\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Recently discovered photo. Photo courtesy: Carol A. Lester Siegworth / Loras College]]

	UNION PARK. The [[DUBUQUE ELECTRIC RAILWAY, LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY]], known locally as the Allen and Swiney Motor Line Company, purchased forty acres of land from the farm of [[STEWART, William G.\|William G. STEWART]] on March 6, 1891 with an option on two hundred more. (1) The company owners, new to the community, desired a way to popularize the use of electricity. The company had been in a heated battle with [[RHOMBERG, Joseph A.\|Joseph A. RHOMBERG]] to stay in existence since 1890. (2) The idea of a park at the end of their trolley line promised to give them needed publicity. (3)		UNION PARK. The [[DUBUQUE ELECTRIC RAILWAY, LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY]], known locally as the Allen and Swiney Motor Line Company, purchased forty acres of land from the farm of [[STEWART, William G.\|William G. STEWART]] on March 6, 1891 with an option on two hundred more. (1) The company owners, new to the community, desired a way to popularize the use of electricity. The company had been in a heated battle with [[RHOMBERG, Joseph A.\|Joseph A. RHOMBERG]] to stay in existence since 1890. (2) The idea of a park at the end of their trolley line promised to give them needed publicity. (3)

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:39, 22 March 2023
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	[[Image:gazebodes.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Destruction of gazebo. Photo courtesy: Bob Johnsen]]		[[Image:gazebodes.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Destruction of gazebo. Photo courtesy: Bob Johnsen]]
	[[Image:unionp-4.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|The Playground. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:unionp-4.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|The Playground. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	~~[Image:zip.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Zipline illustration. Photo courtesy: Telegraph Herald]]~~

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:35, 22 March 2023
Line 12:		Line 12:
	[[Image:pavilion.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Union Park's pavilion. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:pavilion.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Union Park's pavilion. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]
	[[Image:circlestop.jpg\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:circlestop.jpg\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]
			[[Image:STOOL.JPG\|left\|thumb\|200px\|This stool was used by the Union Electric ticket handlers to accept tickets from passengers riding the electric trolley to Union Park in the early 1900s.]]
	[[Image:promade.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Pavilion at the streetcar tracks]]		[[Image:promade.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Pavilion at the streetcar tracks]]
	[[Image:promade2.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|]]		[[Image:promade2.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:59, 25 October 2021
Line 12:		Line 12:
	[[Image:pavilion.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Union Park's pavilion. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:pavilion.png\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Union Park's pavilion. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]
	[[Image:circlestop.jpg\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:circlestop.jpg\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]
	[[Image:~~promde~~.~~jpg~~\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Pavilion at the streetcar tracks]]		[[Image:promade.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|Pavilion at the streetcar tracks]]
	[[Image:promade2.~~jpg~~\|left\|thumb\|300px\|]]		[[Image:promade2.png\|left\|thumb\|300px\|]]

	Construction of their single track trolley preceded the building of trails and pathways on the park property. Since the line was a single track, switches like those on the [[FOURTH STREET ELEVATOR]] were used. The line would bow out on both sides creating a two-track system that allowed outgoing and returning cars to pass. Reaching out Couler Valley (now Highway 52 North), the line required the construction of eleven bridges. The name Allen and Swiney chose for their completed project was "Stewart Park," to honor William G. Stewart. Some accounts suggest the park was named in honor of [[MAYOR]] [[STEWART, Robert W.\|Robert W. Stewart]].		Construction of their single track trolley preceded the building of trails and pathways on the park property. Since the line was a single track, switches like those on the [[FOURTH STREET ELEVATOR]] were used. The line would bow out on both sides creating a two-track system that allowed outgoing and returning cars to pass. Reaching out Couler Valley (now Highway 52 North), the line required the construction of eleven bridges. The name Allen and Swiney chose for their completed project was "Stewart Park," to honor William G. Stewart. Some accounts suggest the park was named in honor of [[MAYOR]] [[STEWART, Robert W.\|Robert W. Stewart]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:43, 22 March 2023
Line 31:		Line 31:

	[[Image:UNIONPARKGENERAL.gif\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Beautiful scenery made Union Park a local favorite.]]		[[Image:UNIONPARKGENERAL.gif\|left\|thumb\|200px\|Beautiful scenery made Union Park a local favorite.]]
	[[Image:unionpark-6.png\|~~left~~\|thumb\|250px\|]]		[[Image:unionpark-6.png\|right\|thumb\|250px\|]]
	In the first of many changes, the park was renamed Union Park, honoring the names of the new owners. New track was laid out to the park. The dance hall was remodeled with the addition of large porches, a bowling alley was designed, and pins and balls were purchased.(11) The replacement of incandescent lamps with new lights powered through wires strung from the [[DUBUQUE SHOOTING PARK]] cost Union Electric an estimated five hundred dollars.		In the first of many changes, the park was renamed Union Park, honoring the names of the new owners. New track was laid out to the park. The dance hall was remodeled with the addition of large porches, a bowling alley was designed, and pins and balls were purchased.(11) The replacement of incandescent lamps with new lights powered through wires strung from the [[DUBUQUE SHOOTING PARK]] cost Union Electric an estimated five hundred dollars.

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	In 1904 dirt trails and paths were replaced with cement sidewalks that ran to all the buildings. The construction of a new dance hall, known as "The Pavilion," was a major event. Every Wednesday night and on weekends, bowery dances were held. The band for a bowery dance played about half a song with the dance floor empty. At this point, park employees walked around and picked up nickels from anyone wishing to dance. When the money was collected, the rest of the song was played. Visitors to the park were also impressed when the loading platform, little more than a dock, was replaced by an elaborate shelter that protected visitors from bad weather.		In 1904 dirt trails and paths were replaced with cement sidewalks that ran to all the buildings. The construction of a new dance hall, known as "The Pavilion," was a major event. Every Wednesday night and on weekends, bowery dances were held. The band for a bowery dance played about half a song with the dance floor empty. At this point, park employees walked around and picked up nickels from anyone wishing to dance. When the money was collected, the rest of the song was played. Visitors to the park were also impressed when the loading platform, little more than a dock, was replaced by an elaborate shelter that protected visitors from bad weather.

	[[Image:unionparkconcerts.jpg\|~~left~~\|thumb\|250px\|Streetcar advertising of music concerts in the park. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:unionparkconcerts.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Streetcar advertising of music concerts in the park. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]
	[[Image:lodge.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|The lodge at Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]In 1905 a unique bandstand made of gnarled tree branches was constructed across from "The Pavilion." This became the "Rustic Bandstand." A second bandstand of the same design was built in 1907 further into the valley with hundreds of benches nearby.		[[Image:lodge.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|The lodge at Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]In 1905 a unique bandstand made of gnarled tree branches was constructed across from "The Pavilion." This became the "Rustic Bandstand." A second bandstand of the same design was built in 1907 further into the valley with hundreds of benches nearby.

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	[[Image:imp368.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|The interior of the cave at Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp368.jpg\|left\|thumb\|150px\|The interior of the cave at Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:cavep.jpg\|~~left~~\|thumb\|250px\|Union Park cave. Photo courtesy: Bob Johnsen]]		[[Image:cavep.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Union Park cave. Photo courtesy: Bob Johnsen]]
	[[Image:imp372.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Children's playground at Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp372.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Children's playground at Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:pagoda.jpg\|~~left~~\|thumb\|250px\|Children's pagoda. Photo courtesy: Bob Johnsen]]		[[Image:pagoda.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Children's pagoda. Photo courtesy: Bob Johnsen]]

	By 1906 the lack of more activities at Union Park was leading to the call for another park in the city.		By 1906 the lack of more activities at Union Park was leading to the call for another park in the city.
Line 60:		Line 60:
	More land was purchased in 1908, and a children's playground was developed with every type of equipment including slides, swings and carousels. A roller coaster made of wood was generally thought too "rickety" by parents who kept their children away. The jerky ride often sent straw hats flying-into a fishpond. Steamy August days were momentarily defeated by a casual walk through a cave discovered in 1900.		More land was purchased in 1908, and a children's playground was developed with every type of equipment including slides, swings and carousels. A roller coaster made of wood was generally thought too "rickety" by parents who kept their children away. The jerky ride often sent straw hats flying-into a fishpond. Steamy August days were momentarily defeated by a casual walk through a cave discovered in 1900.

	[[Image:MAMMOTHTHEATER-2.gif\|~~right~~\|thumb\|250px\|Mammoth Theater. Admission for indoor seats was 10-15 cents depending upon the program. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:MAMMOTHTHEATER-2.gif\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Mammoth Theater. Admission for indoor seats was 10-15 cents depending upon the program. Image courtesy: Joe Jacobsmeier]]
	[[Image:tinterior2.jpg\|~~left~~\|thumb\|250px\|Theater interior. Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]		[[Image:tinterior2.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Theater interior. Photo courtesy: Joseph Jacobsmeier]]

	The year 1909 witnessed the development of the Mammoth Theater, advertised as the largest in Iowa. (14) Costing Union Electric $30,000 to construct, the theater stretched from one hillside to the other dividing the park into two parts. Planning for large crowds, 1,500 opera chairs were installed. The theater, planned carefully for excellent acoustics, was open at one end, allowing an additional 5,000 people to see and hear (at no charge) programs by such musicians as Guy Lombardo or the local group [[BERT AND HER PLAYBOYS]].		The year 1909 witnessed the development of the Mammoth Theater, advertised as the largest in Iowa. (14) Costing Union Electric $30,000 to construct, the theater stretched from one hillside to the other dividing the park into two parts. Planning for large crowds, 1,500 opera chairs were installed. The theater, planned carefully for excellent acoustics, was open at one end, allowing an additional 5,000 people to see and hear (at no charge) programs by such musicians as Guy Lombardo or the local group [[BERT AND HER PLAYBOYS]].
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	A new amusement policy for the park was announced in 1910. There would be no more evenings devoted to the presentation, by the Park Players, of one play. The Players would instead be seen in a series of one-act comedies. Guerrero and Carmen, the "Violinist and Harpist" would also entertain. The orchestra of [[SCHAEFER, Oscar W.\|Oscar W. SCHAEFER]], in addition to providing music in the theater, presented an open air concert in the Rustic Stand every evening. (21)		A new amusement policy for the park was announced in 1910. There would be no more evenings devoted to the presentation, by the Park Players, of one play. The Players would instead be seen in a series of one-act comedies. Guerrero and Carmen, the "Violinist and Harpist" would also entertain. The orchestra of [[SCHAEFER, Oscar W.\|Oscar W. SCHAEFER]], in addition to providing music in the theater, presented an open air concert in the Rustic Stand every evening. (21)

	[[Image:UPT.JPG\|~~right~~\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]Dancing at Union Park was always popular. On opening night in 1911, it was limited to private dancing parties. Public dancing "under the best supervision" was available every following night. The question of music was settled by having local orchestras complete for a month or more and then award the contract for the rest of the year to the most popular. (22)		[[Image:UPT.JPG\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]Dancing at Union Park was always popular. On opening night in 1911, it was limited to private dancing parties. Public dancing "under the best supervision" was available every following night. The question of music was settled by having local orchestras complete for a month or more and then award the contract for the rest of the year to the most popular. (22)

	In 1914 the opening of the park was marked by the evening performance of the Dubuque College Band of fifty-eight musicians. Other musical numbers were performed by vocalists and an octet. (23)		In 1914 the opening of the park was marked by the evening performance of the Dubuque College Band of fifty-eight musicians. Other musical numbers were performed by vocalists and an octet. (23)

	[[Image:$_57.JPG\|~~left~~\|thumb\|200px\|]]		[[Image:$_57.JPG\|right\|thumb\|200px\|]]
	In 1916 Union Electric Company assets were sold to the Dubuque Electric Company, but continued attention to beautifying the area led the park to remain one of eastern Iowa's most enchanting settings. In 1918, the [[DUBUQUE ELECTRIC COMPANY]] announced that [[MOTION PICTURES]] would be part of the entertainment at the Mammoth Theater. (24)		In 1916 Union Electric Company assets were sold to the Dubuque Electric Company, but continued attention to beautifying the area led the park to remain one of eastern Iowa's most enchanting settings. In 1918, the [[DUBUQUE ELECTRIC COMPANY]] announced that [[MOTION PICTURES]] would be part of the entertainment at the Mammoth Theater. (24)

	[[Image:imp773.jpg\|~~right~~\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]On July 9, 1919, weather predictions called for the possibility of thunderstorms in the afternoon, but usual summer activities were continued as planned. The first drops of rain in the afternoon quickly turned into a downpour. Picnickers, still feeling secure, ran for nearby shelter unaware that the cloudburst had created a torrent of water that soon tore into the park. Concrete sidewalks were ripped up by the fury that demolished the merry-go-round and backed up behind the theater to a height estimated to be twenty feet before pushing on downhill.		[[Image:imp773.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]On July 9, 1919, weather predictions called for the possibility of thunderstorms in the afternoon, but usual summer activities were continued as planned. The first drops of rain in the afternoon quickly turned into a downpour. Picnickers, still feeling secure, ran for nearby shelter unaware that the cloudburst had created a torrent of water that soon tore into the park. Concrete sidewalks were ripped up by the fury that demolished the merry-go-round and backed up behind the theater to a height estimated to be twenty feet before pushing on downhill.

	Five people died, and an estimated fifteen thousand dollars in damage was done. News of the destruction was so important to the citizens of Dubuque that the announcement of the presentation of the peace treaty by President Wilson was crowded into the lower left hand corner of the front page of the newspaper.		Five people died, and an estimated fifteen thousand dollars in damage was done. News of the destruction was so important to the citizens of Dubuque that the announcement of the presentation of the peace treaty by President Wilson was crowded into the lower left hand corner of the front page of the newspaper.

	[[Image:UNIONPARKBANDSTAND.gif\|~~left~~\|thumb\|250px\|Concerts were held at the Union Park bandstand]]		[[Image:UNIONPARKBANDSTAND.gif\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Concerts were held at the Union Park bandstand]]
	[[Image:girlsrace.png\|~~right~~\|thumb\|250px\|Loemker, Herman J., 1868-1937, “[Girls' race at a Sunday School picnic at Union Park in Dubuque, Iowa],” Loras College Digital Collections, accessed September 14, 2016, https://digitalcollections.loras.edu/items/show/526.]]The effort to put Union Park back together began almost immediately. Many buildings, the roller coaster, fishpond, and several fountains were rebuilt to look like they had before the flood. A new dance pavilion and theater were planned.		[[Image:girlsrace.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Loemker, Herman J., 1868-1937, “[Girls' race at a Sunday School picnic at Union Park in Dubuque, Iowa],” Loras College Digital Collections, accessed September 14, 2016, https://digitalcollections.loras.edu/items/show/526.]]The effort to put Union Park back together began almost immediately. Many buildings, the roller coaster, fishpond, and several fountains were rebuilt to look like they had before the flood. A new dance pavilion and theater were planned.

	Of concern to the Dubuque Electric Company, the park owners, was the appearance of automobiles in Dubuque. These vehicles permitted Dubuque residents, once confined to Dubuque and its attractions, to travel out of the city. In 1922 the company accepted the situation and announced that it would construct a roadway into the park in time for the 14th annual Sunday School Picnic on June 20th. (25)		Of concern to the Dubuque Electric Company, the park owners, was the appearance of automobiles in Dubuque. These vehicles permitted Dubuque residents, once confined to Dubuque and its attractions, to travel out of the city. In 1922 the company accepted the situation and announced that it would construct a roadway into the park in time for the 14th annual Sunday School Picnic on June 20th. (25)

	[[Image:imp370.jpg\|~~left~~\|thumb\|350px\|A casual day at Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]To compete with Eagle Point and attractions in other cities, a new theater was planned for the park. Aware that the old theater, stretched across the valley, had blocked the water and made the flood worse, designers planned a long rather than a very wide building. The cost of this design proved too expensive.		[[Image:imp370.jpg\|right\|thumb\|350px\|A casual day at Union Park. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]To compete with Eagle Point and attractions in other cities, a new theater was planned for the park. Aware that the old theater, stretched across the valley, had blocked the water and made the flood worse, designers planned a long rather than a very wide building. The cost of this design proved too expensive.

	In place of a new theater, a dance pavilion was constructed at a cost of $30,000. (26) This ballroom, advertised as the largest in Iowa, opened on July 26, 1923. During the winter of 1923 extensive alterations were made including a large porch, check rooms, and a smoking room for men. The orchestra stand was redecorated as was the interior with Japanese rope "draped in wide arches to adorn the ceiling." (27) The large crystal ball light was removed and nine huge chandeliers were installed in its place with the largest in the center taking 84 light bulbs. Each of the others held 56. Several trees were removed for additional parking space. (28)		In place of a new theater, a dance pavilion was constructed at a cost of $30,000. (26) This ballroom, advertised as the largest in Iowa, opened on July 26, 1923. During the winter of 1923 extensive alterations were made including a large porch, check rooms, and a smoking room for men. The orchestra stand was redecorated as was the interior with Japanese rope "draped in wide arches to adorn the ceiling." (27) The large crystal ball light was removed and nine huge chandeliers were installed in its place with the largest in the center taking 84 light bulbs. Each of the others held 56. Several trees were removed for additional parking space. (28)

	[[Image:imp371.jpg\|~~right~~\|thumb\|250px\|Union Park swimming pool. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:imp371.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Union Park swimming pool. Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:uppagoda.png\|~~left~~\|thumb\|250px\|Union Park Pagoda]]		[[Image:uppagoda.png\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Union Park Pagoda]]

	The same year a swimming pool, said to be able to hold 2,000 bathers, was constructed to attract residents back to the park. The popular "Pavilion" was converted into a roller-rink.		The same year a swimming pool, said to be able to hold 2,000 bathers, was constructed to attract residents back to the park. The popular "Pavilion" was converted into a roller-rink.
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	In 1932 Woodland Ballroom, formerly Union Park, was opened for the summer season. For the opening day [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] buses provided regular service from 7th and Main to the site. (31) In 1934 Interstate Power announced that Union Park would close.		In 1932 Woodland Ballroom, formerly Union Park, was opened for the summer season. For the opening day [[INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY]] buses provided regular service from 7th and Main to the site. (31) In 1934 Interstate Power announced that Union Park would close.

	[[Image:FOUNTAIN.jpg\|~~right~~\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]		[[Image:FOUNTAIN.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Photo courtesy: Bob Reding]]
	[[Image:fpix.jpg\|~~left~~\|thumb\|150px\|One of the Union Park fountains.]]		[[Image:fpix.jpg\|right\|thumb\|150px\|One of the Union Park fountains.]]

	In 1935 the park buildings were dismantled. One of the two statues that stood in front of the old Pavilion ended up in the yard outside the [[RYAN HOUSE]] restaurant along Locust Street. The other graced the patio of the former home of [[RHOMBERG, Joseph A.\|Joseph A. RHOMBERG]]. Union Park's dance hall was reassembled by workmen under the direction of [[AKINS, Everett "Shorty"\|Everett "Shorty" AKINS]] at the popular [[MELODY MILL]] on Sageville Road near the intersection of Highway 52 and John F. Kennedy Road. (32) For safety, the cave entrance was blasted shut. Wood from the roller coaster was made into a barn.		In 1935 the park buildings were dismantled. One of the two statues that stood in front of the old Pavilion ended up in the yard outside the [[RYAN HOUSE]] restaurant along Locust Street. The other graced the patio of the former home of [[RHOMBERG, Joseph A.\|Joseph A. RHOMBERG]]. Union Park's dance hall was reassembled by workmen under the direction of [[AKINS, Everett "Shorty"\|Everett "Shorty" AKINS]] at the popular [[MELODY MILL]] on Sageville Road near the intersection of Highway 52 and John F. Kennedy Road. (32) For safety, the cave entrance was blasted shut. Wood from the roller coaster was made into a barn.