Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
Marshall Cohen—researcher and producer, CNN
Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
HEALTH OFFICER
HEALTH OFFICER. In the spring of 1855, a CHOLERA outbreak was brought to Dubuque by sick people arriving here by boat. The Dubuque City Council authorized Dr. Edward Donn, city health officer, aided by city police and the marshal to stop all boats arriving from the south and check all passengers. Money was authorized to renovate the quarantine hospital near the river and to construct a road from Railroad Avenue to the site. Officially, the building became known as a "SMALLPOX Hospital" or "Detention House." Unofficially and in the newspaper, the name PEST HOUSE, referring to pestilence, was commonly used. (1)
In 1900 the board of health was abolished with the council assuming its role. The council appointed the city health officer and sanitary policeman. (2)