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.
WEIGEL, Frederick
WEIGEL, Frederick. (Wittenburg, Germany, Oct. 28, 1819--Dubuque, IA, May 19, 1896). Capitalist. One of Dubuque's earliest settlers, Weigel came here in June 1833, and rose to wealth by founding the profitable Key City Flour Mills and running the plant day and night. He later sold the mill and invested in real estate and MEAT PACKING.
Weigel purchased vast amounts of land in the downtown area. Much of this remained in the family for years after his death. His home, an excellent example of ITALIAN VILLA ARCHITECTURE (1192 Locust Street), was furnished during his life with valuable works of art and hand carved furniture including some with inlaid gold.