ARNOULD, ALPHONSE A.
Alphonse A. Arnould, who is successfully and prominently identified with the industrial interests of Davenport as a contractor, enjoys a liberal patronage in this connection and now maintains his offices in the McManus building. His birth occurred on Rock Island street of this city, his parents, being Lewis and Cotilde (Hout) Arnould. The father, a native of France, obtained his education in the schools of that country and there also became familiar with the carpenter's trade. In 1847 he crossed the Atlantic to the United States and after residing for a time at Indianapolis, Indiana, he came to Davenport, Iowa, and began work at his trade.
Alphonse A. Arnould obtained his education in the Davenport schools and when fourteen years of age began learning the carpenter's trade under the direction of his father. This line of activity has claimed his attention throughout his entire business career, with the exception of one year, during which period he followed bridge building. When eighteen years of age he took up contracting in association with his father and the partnership was maintained with mutual pleasure and profit until 1884. Subsequently Mr. Arnould of this review turned his attention to stair building, which is a trade in itself, and afterward he spent about two years in the shops of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway Company. Twenty years ago he embarked in business as a contractor on his own account, becoming a member of the firm known as the Tri City Construction Company, the interests of which he capably directed in the capacity of vice president. About a year ago he severed his connection with that concern and spent some two months in travel for educational purposes. On returning to this city he opened an office in the McManus building and has since carried on his interests as a contractor with excellent success.
On the 27th of September, 1881, Mr. Arnould was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Downes, a representative of an old and prominent family of this city. Unto them were born eight children, namely: Marie and Lewis, who are deceased; Edmond, Albert, Theresa and Aledo, all of whom have completed their education and are at home; and Elizabeth and Marie, who are attending school. Fraternally, Mr. Arnould is identified with the Knights of Columbus. His close application and unwearied industry have brought him a goodly measure of prosperity, while his recognized skill and ability have gained him recognition as one prominent in building circles.
This bio was extracted from the History of Davenport and Scott County, Vol. I and II, by Harry E. Downer, S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago. It was transcribed by Elaine Rathmann.