James Armstrong 1842-1925

ARMSTRONG, SCHEMMEL, KRAPFL

Posted By: Cheryl Locher Moonen (email)
Date: 8/10/2016 at 12:22:27

Born in Co. Down Ireland. Founder. Armstrong and his parents came to Dyersville in 1854 where his father, David Armstrong Sr., was engaged as a general contractor. On March 1, 1880, James Armstrong purchased the Collins and Schemmel Hardware and Implement Co. He later purchased the Krapfl Lumber Yard which became the foundation of the Armstrong Lumber Co. Armstrong served the city of Dyersville as mayor, alderman, and member of the school board. He was instrumental in securing the construction of the Great Western Railroad through Dyersville and supported the establishment of the first electric light and water utilities in the city. It is through his efforts that Mount Hope cemetery was established.

Lyon, Randolph W. Faith and Fortunes: An Encyclopedia of Dubuque County. Iowa City, Iowa. Flynn Printing and Graphics,
1998