John Blake 1808-1870

BLAKE

Posted By: cheryl moonen (email)
Date: 9/15/2017 at 16:42:30

Obituary published Aug 23, 1870 in the Dubuque Daily Times.

Highlights of the obituary state he was born and married in Irelend and that upon coming to this country he and Ellen lived in West Point, NY. They came to Dubuque in about 1836 in order to meet up with his brothers William and Charles who had come to the US earlier.

He built his first kiln in 1837 and was a brickmaker, retiring in 1868. He was elected Alderman in 1844 and continued to represent the city for several years in that capacity.

"About twenty-four years ago Mr. Blake purchased a lot in the 3d street Cemetery, and near the same period of time buried three of his children there, and two more recently.

The recent disgraceful and premature action of the City Council in leasing the Third Street Cemetery for mining purposes (of course including the ground containing the remains of Mr. Blake's five children) had a tendancy to harass and depress his mind.

And the very last act of his life was the purchase of a new lot, less likely to future disturbance, and the removal of his children.

A few days since Mr. B. was buried in the same lot, where it is hoped he and his family may be permitted to repose in quietness.

He was deeply impressed with the desecration of the place, or rather with the manner in which many of the remains of the early settlers were disposed of.

His family is well provided for, which consists of the widow and five children - one son and four daughters - an intelligent and home loving family."