Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
BONSON, Richard
BONSON, Richard. (Yorkshire, England, Oct. 23, 1814-Dubuque, IA, Feb. 1, 1883). Miner. Bonson settled in Dubuque in July 1834, becoming one of the area's most successful miners. He also served on the executive committee that arbitrated MINING disputes. There were many complications in locating claims. A committee of twenty-five was appointed as arbitrators to settle the disputes. From this committee was appointed an executive committee of three, consisting of T. Davis, James LANGWORTHY and Bonson. They made the maps of the claims and settled all disputes between the disputed claimants. Their decision was final.
Frequently elected to township and county elective offices, Bonson served as the State Inspector of Banks. He was elected a state legislator in 1854 and 1856.
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Source:
History of Dubuque County Iowa. Chicago: Western History Company, 1880