Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal, Sr.
SPENSLEY, Harker Brentnal Sr. (Mineral Point, WI, Mar.7, 1875--Dubuque, IA, Oct. 23, 1946). Real estate and insurance agent, director, Spensley Theater. The son of John Spensley and Mary Jane Waller, Harker Spensley was educated in Dubuque. He received his LLB from the University of Iowa College of Law in 1896. Spensley married Elsie G. Tileston, May 8, 1907, in Garvanza, California. Their children included: son Harker Brentnal Jr., daughter Anne Tileston (Mrs. W. L. Gallogly), Mary Alice (Mrs. John M. Weir Jr.), Elsie Georgette (Mrs. Frank T. Hardie).
From 1896 to 1910 Spensley was associated with Spensley, Bailey and Spensley Mortgages, Insurance, and Investments in Dubuque. From 1910 to 1916 the company was named Spensley and Spensley. Between 1916 and 1939 the firm was called H. B. Spensley & Gallogly Insurance and Real Estate. After 1939 the company was Spensley & Gallogly Insurance and Real Estate. His office was 524-26 BANK AND INSURANCE BUILDING. His residence was 430 Alpine, Dubuque.
From 1929 to 1933 Spensley was the president and manager of the Spensley Theater. This building was later renamed the ORPHEUM THEATER and later the FIVE FLAGS THEATER.