Mathias Ham House | Dubuque

Information

Landmark: Mathias Ham House
City: Dubuque
Country: USA Iowa
Continent: North America

Mathias Ham House, Dubuque, USA Iowa, North America

Mathias Ham House is a historic house museum located in Dubuque, Iowa, USA.

This 19th-century structure preserves a significant period of local history and architecture.

Visual Characteristics

The house is a two-story Greek Revival structure constructed primarily of limestone. It features a symmetrical facade with a prominent central entrance. The exterior walls are a light grey, and the roof is a dark grey slate. Decorative elements include white-painted wooden trim around the windows and cornices.

Location & Access Logistics

Mathias Ham House is situated at 2215 Jackson Street in Dubuque, Iowa. It is approximately 2.5 kilometers southwest of the Dubuque city center. Parking is available on-site in a dedicated lot. Public transport options include the Dubuque Transit bus line 3, which stops within a 0.5km walk of the house.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was constructed between 1856 and 1858 for Mathias Ham, a prominent Dubuque businessman and politician. It was designed by architect John F. Rague. The original purpose was to serve as a private residence for Ham and his family.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the restored interior rooms, which are furnished with period artifacts. Guided tours explain the life of the Ham family and the history of Dubuque during the 19th century. The grounds include a restored carriage house and gardens.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the main house. Limited shade is provided by mature trees on the property. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the area. No on-site food vendors are present, but dining options are available in the nearby city center.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for exterior photography is mid-morning or late afternoon when the sun angle provides optimal lighting on the facade. The house is open for tours from May through October. Weather is generally most favorable for visiting during the summer months (June-August).

Facts & Legends

Mathias Ham was known for his extensive landholdings and his involvement in the lead mining industry, which was a primary economic driver in Dubuque during his lifetime. A local anecdote suggests that a secret tunnel was once used to transport goods from the house to the Mississippi River, though its existence is unverified.