1898 Apr 15, The Courier, P8, Waterloo, Iowa
Peter Kiene, Sr., Dead
Demise of a Dubuque Pioneer – Nearly Sixty Year[sic] in Dubuque
Dubuque Telegraph, 14th. The demise of Peter Kiene Sr., at 12:45 this morning has caused profound sorrow throughout the community. His demise was not unexpected for the reason that announcement was made yesterday of his critical illness and all day and evening his numerous friends and many others who knew of him as one of the earliest settlers in Dubuque and one of our most revered citizens, made anxious inquiries as to his condition. Deceased was born Dec. 15, 1819, at Canton Graubundten, Switzerland, and emigrated to America in 1840 and landed in Dubuque August 15 of that year. He was engaged in mining and smelting near Galena until about 1845 when he opened a hotel on Fifth and Main streets. In 1849 he built “Harmony Hall” on Clay street. In 1858 he engaged in the insurance business which his son and other descendants now conduct on Fourth and Main streets, he being the senior member of P. Kiene & Son. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the residence on Broadway and will be under the auspices of Schiller lodge, I.O.O.F. The services will be conducted by Rev. H. Ficke. The burial will be private and interment will be in Linwood.
1912 Dec 6, The Telegraph-Herald, P1, 5, Dubuque, Iowa
Peter Kiene in Final Summons
Passes Away at Early Hour Friday after Paralytic Stroke
Was Native of Dubuque
The passing of Mr. Peter Kiene, which took place unexpectedly at the family residence, No. 15 West Locust street, shortly after midnight Friday morning, removes from the community one whose influence has been perhaps as potent in its uplift as that of any Dubuquer of his generation. He gave freely of his time and money for the betterment of conditions. He was identified with practically every charitable enterprise and every civic improvement in which the public at large was concerned. A constant worker, his life was so ordered and timed that the output of his achievement day in and day out was prodigious. Clean and regular as was the rule of his existence his taking off at the age of sixty-six, can be regarded in no other light than untimely. He was in the full possession of his faculties and vigor when last Tuesday night, after attending a banquet at the Dubuque Club, he was stricken with apoplexy. The affliction affected the right side and impaired his speech, although reports form the bedside on Thursday indicated the patient was improving and hope was held out he might entirely recover. A change for the worse set in Thursday night and shortly after twelve o’clock Friday morning the final summons came.
Death a Shock to Whole City
The whole city was shocked when it heard of the death of Mr. Kiene. He was a life-long resident of Dubuque, having been born here November 2nd, 1846. He was a veteran of the Civil war, having enlisted in Company E, 16th Iowa, when less than fifteen years of age, and served three and a half years. He was wounded twice and spent seven months in Andersonville prison and two months in Libby. Mr. Kiene was the senior member of Kiene and Son, doing a real estate and insurance business at Fourth and Main streets. He was one of Dubuque’s substantial citizens and was deeply interested in everything that concerned the welfare of his native place. He was a most faithful member of Westminster Presbyterian church. He was a member of Hyde Clark Post of the G.A.R.; of Metropolitan Lodge No. 49, Dubuque Chapter of the Masonic Order; a member of Siloam Commandery and of Harmony Lodge, I.O.O.F. For years Mr. Kiene was a member of the board of education, having served as president for some time. He was a director of the First National bank, a charter member of the Library Board and a member of the Board of Director of the Industrial Corporation.
Funeral Sunday
The funeral services will be held in Westminster Presbyterian church at 2:30 Sunday afternoon, and the burial will take place at Linwood cemetery. The immediate members of the family who survive Mr. Kiene are his wife, his daughter Mrs. W. J. Blalock of Atlanta, Ga.; his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Maud Kiene of Sarnia, Ontario; two grand daughters, Eugenia and Marion, and a sister Mrs. L. N. Converse of this city. Mr. Kiene was the type of a citizen a community call illy spare[sic]. He was interested in all that was good. Every worthy cause found in him a loyal friend and many a burdened heart was cheered by his smile and words of encouragement, as well as by his more substantial tokens of interest. One of the most beautiful traits of character possessed by Mr. Kiene was his love for children. Every little child finding a warm friend in him and responding instantly to his kindly approach. He was always doing something to brighten the lives of little children.
The Great Sorrow of His Life
Several years ago Mr. Kiene lost his only son, Eugene, who had been most closely associated with him in business and whose loss he felt most keenly. But his great sorrow only served to make him broader and nobler and every one who came in contact with him felt in the presence of one whose trials had but made him more kindly and sympathetic. Commercially Mr. Kiene’s interests were large. He was one of the city’s most prosperous business men.
Dubuquers Pay Tribute
Fellow Citizens and Associates Tell of Mr. Kiene’s Virtues
Following are a few expressions on the life and work of Mr. Kiene. This list might have been multiplied indefinitely. The subject was universally loved and the innumerable acts of kindness, the charities he performed, never will be known. Like every man who truly loves his fellow, the keynote of Mr. Kiene’s life was modesty. It is related of him that when the most recent history of Dubuque county was in preparation, a review of Mr. Kiene which had been prepared by the compiler was sent the subject for review. The story of his life had been told without attempt at eulogy. In portraying the life of a man like Mr. Kiene, the bare statements of fact were bound to convey a story of splendid achievement. Mr. Kiene objected and the review was cut down to a bare chronicle of dates and events in his life. This modesty characterized his entire life. No man with a large part in public affairs ever shrunk from the limelight more than he.
War Record Recited
Mr. C. H. Berg, who has been a close friend of Mr. Kiene for many years, gave his record in the Civil war as follows: Mr. Kiene enlisted in Company E, 16th Iowa infantry, in Dubuque, in 1862. He was fourteen years old at the time of his enlistment. He fought in many important battles of the war and was captured in the battle of Atlanta July, 1864. He was confined in the famous Andersonville, Ga., prison until the end of the war, in April, 1865, and was returned to his regiment. He was mustered out at Davenport on June 20, 1865.
Early Career Here
“Upon returning to Dubuque from the war Mr. Kiene went to work in the Herald office as a type setter. After leaving the Herald office he was employed in the Westphal, Hinds hardware store. Later he was connected with the building of river road, holding the position of paymaster under J. K. Graves and J. A. Rhomberg. From there he entered the office of his father, Peter Kiene, Sr., and the firm name was changed to Peter Kiene and Son. At the death of his father, Mr. Kiene became head of the business. Ever since my return from the army I have always been a close friend of Mr. Kiene and have always found him to be the very soul of honor. He was one of the most enterprising citizens in this community and his loss will be keenly felt.”
Was a Philanthropist
“Mr. Kiene was a philanthropist and most of his philanthropic acts have never become known because he was a man who did not let his left hand know what his right hand did.” said Mr. T. W. Ruete, another close friend of the deceased. “He was one of the founders of Finley hospital and was actively engaged on the hospital board until a few years ago. He will be greatly missed by the Dubuque German college, of which he was a staunch friend. Mr. Kiene was a prominent G. A. R. man and was always a true friend of the old soldiers. He was a staunch church member and his death comes as a great blow to the community,”
A Glowing Tribute
Speaking of the death of Mr. Kiene, Attorney L. G. Hurd said: “Mr. Kiene’s death is a loss to the city, and comes as a shock to every citizen. For all that was for the benefit of the town and that was to the good in any of its aspects, he stood – not equivocally or haltingly or with “ifs” and “buts,” but affirmatively, and in the front rank. I doubt if I could name a Dubuquer who will be more greatly missed. I may be pardoned an incident. In 1870, before I knew him even by sight, Judge Austin Adams referred to the large proportion of young men raised in Dubuque who, yielding to temptation, had not “made good,” and then added, “I am inclined to think that young Peter Kiene is going to prove an exception and reverse the rule.” It took but a few of the forty-two years that have since elapsed to demonstrate that Judge Adams’ foresight was correct.”
Judge Bonson’s Eulogy
Hon. Robert Bonson, judge of the district court, when asked for an expression, said, “Our relations have been almost too intimate and personal for me to have anything publicly to say;”: but he finally gave out the following: “The death of Peter Kiene comes with such force and suddenness that not only his friends but the whole community is appealed[sic]. A self-made man he climbed the ladder of success. He was always charitably inclined, he exhibited a public spirit that was commendable, he lived a life of industry and thrift and honor, with a love for family and those that were dear to him. We may well and truthfully say of him that his life was a model one.”
Death Great Loss
Judge Kintzinger when informed of the death of Mr. Kiene, said: “He was one of the real men of Dubuque. I have known him all of my life and have yet to hear aught against his character. I, personally, know of many of the good things he did for humanity, did them without the flare of publicity. He was always amiable, more than that, a good friend to all whom he chanced to meet. In the death of Mr. Kiene, the city has lost a man whom it can scarcely replace.”
A Loveable Character
George W. Healty, who has been identified with Mr. Kiene in Grand Army and other work for many years, when asked for an expression on the death of Mr. Kiene, could scarcely talk, being so overcome with emotion. He said: “Peter Kiene was one of the most lovable characters who ever called Dubuque his home. I have known him personally for more than fifty years. In all of that time I never knew him to say an ill word of a living person except that ill word was deserving. I have known of many of his acts of charity and kindness which were not intended for the general public. He was one of the youngest men who served the Union armies and there he made a record for himself which will be a heritage for his posterity. The death of Mr. Kiene is a personal shock to me, is a great shock to the members of our society, the G.A.R., and it is one from which we will not soon recover.”
Led a Model Life
Sheriff Dunn said: “The death of Peter Kiene is a shock to the community. He led a model life, he was kind and courteous to all, pleasant to meet, agreeable and sincere in everything he said. His strict honesty, manliness, fairness and impartiality were marked features of his character. His charitable actions are familiar to all. My personal acquaintance of over forty years with him had ripened into friendship that seems cruel to terminate by death.
Had Interest of Public at Heart
Prof. F. T. Oldt, formerly superintendent of the schools of the city and now a professor in the German Presbyterian college, said: “The death of Mr. Kiene is a personal sorrow to me. He was one of the first men I became acquainted with when I came to Dubuque seventeen years ago In my work during all of these years, I have been frequently thrown into the company of Mr. Kiene. I found him always alert and ever ready to do what he could to advance the interests of the city and the people generally. He was ever ready to do a good deed without the expectation of gain or thanks.” At a special meeting of the directors of Dubuque Industrial Corporation Friday morning the following expression of grief was unanimously adopted: “Peter Kiene, one of the best beloved as well as one of the most highly esteemed citizens who has ever graced the roster of Dubuque’s citizenship was called to his maker early this morning. And we, the Board of Directors of the Dubuque Industrial Corporation of which Peter Kiene was an honored member, have gathered in special meeting by common wish to officially express our grief at the great loss to this organization and to Dubuque of so valuable a man. Peter Kiene exemplified American manhood in a way that justifies us in expressing the highest encomiums concerning his memory. The loving head of a happy family, he carried his gentle but powerful influence throughout this whole city and region. We feel that few men have ever lived in our midst who have combined to a greater degree those lovable qualities which made him so popular along with his great activities which were so largely responsible for the integrity and progress of our city. He loved his fellow man. We have therefor unanimously decided to convey to the family of the deceased a copy of this expression of grief at the passing of a just man, a true friend and a citizen of high ideals.”
Contributor: Pinkscraps
Peter Kiene, Sr., Dead
Demise of a Dubuque Pioneer – Nearly Sixty Year[sic] in Dubuque
Dubuque Telegraph, 14th. The demise of Peter Kiene Sr., at 12:45 this morning has caused profound sorrow throughout the community. His demise was not unexpected for the reason that announcement was made yesterday of his critical illness and all day and evening his numerous friends and many others who knew of him as one of the earliest settlers in Dubuque and one of our most revered citizens, made anxious inquiries as to his condition. Deceased was born Dec. 15, 1819, at Canton Graubundten, Switzerland, and emigrated to America in 1840 and landed in Dubuque August 15 of that year. He was engaged in mining and smelting near Galena until about 1845 when he opened a hotel on Fifth and Main streets. In 1849 he built “Harmony Hall” on Clay street. In 1858 he engaged in the insurance business which his son and other descendants now conduct on Fourth and Main streets, he being the senior member of P. Kiene & Son. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the residence on Broadway and will be under the auspices of Schiller lodge, I.O.O.F. The services will be conducted by Rev. H. Ficke. The burial will be private and interment will be in Linwood.
1912 Dec 6, The Telegraph-Herald, P1, 5, Dubuque, Iowa
Peter Kiene in Final Summons
Passes Away at Early Hour Friday after Paralytic Stroke
Was Native of Dubuque
The passing of Mr. Peter Kiene, which took place unexpectedly at the family residence, No. 15 West Locust street, shortly after midnight Friday morning, removes from the community one whose influence has been perhaps as potent in its uplift as that of any Dubuquer of his generation. He gave freely of his time and money for the betterment of conditions. He was identified with practically every charitable enterprise and every civic improvement in which the public at large was concerned. A constant worker, his life was so ordered and timed that the output of his achievement day in and day out was prodigious. Clean and regular as was the rule of his existence his taking off at the age of sixty-six, can be regarded in no other light than untimely. He was in the full possession of his faculties and vigor when last Tuesday night, after attending a banquet at the Dubuque Club, he was stricken with apoplexy. The affliction affected the right side and impaired his speech, although reports form the bedside on Thursday indicated the patient was improving and hope was held out he might entirely recover. A change for the worse set in Thursday night and shortly after twelve o’clock Friday morning the final summons came.
Death a Shock to Whole City
The whole city was shocked when it heard of the death of Mr. Kiene. He was a life-long resident of Dubuque, having been born here November 2nd, 1846. He was a veteran of the Civil war, having enlisted in Company E, 16th Iowa, when less than fifteen years of age, and served three and a half years. He was wounded twice and spent seven months in Andersonville prison and two months in Libby. Mr. Kiene was the senior member of Kiene and Son, doing a real estate and insurance business at Fourth and Main streets. He was one of Dubuque’s substantial citizens and was deeply interested in everything that concerned the welfare of his native place. He was a most faithful member of Westminster Presbyterian church. He was a member of Hyde Clark Post of the G.A.R.; of Metropolitan Lodge No. 49, Dubuque Chapter of the Masonic Order; a member of Siloam Commandery and of Harmony Lodge, I.O.O.F. For years Mr. Kiene was a member of the board of education, having served as president for some time. He was a director of the First National bank, a charter member of the Library Board and a member of the Board of Director of the Industrial Corporation.
Funeral Sunday
The funeral services will be held in Westminster Presbyterian church at 2:30 Sunday afternoon, and the burial will take place at Linwood cemetery. The immediate members of the family who survive Mr. Kiene are his wife, his daughter Mrs. W. J. Blalock of Atlanta, Ga.; his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Maud Kiene of Sarnia, Ontario; two grand daughters, Eugenia and Marion, and a sister Mrs. L. N. Converse of this city. Mr. Kiene was the type of a citizen a community call illy spare[sic]. He was interested in all that was good. Every worthy cause found in him a loyal friend and many a burdened heart was cheered by his smile and words of encouragement, as well as by his more substantial tokens of interest. One of the most beautiful traits of character possessed by Mr. Kiene was his love for children. Every little child finding a warm friend in him and responding instantly to his kindly approach. He was always doing something to brighten the lives of little children.
The Great Sorrow of His Life
Several years ago Mr. Kiene lost his only son, Eugene, who had been most closely associated with him in business and whose loss he felt most keenly. But his great sorrow only served to make him broader and nobler and every one who came in contact with him felt in the presence of one whose trials had but made him more kindly and sympathetic. Commercially Mr. Kiene’s interests were large. He was one of the city’s most prosperous business men.
Dubuquers Pay Tribute
Fellow Citizens and Associates Tell of Mr. Kiene’s Virtues
Following are a few expressions on the life and work of Mr. Kiene. This list might have been multiplied indefinitely. The subject was universally loved and the innumerable acts of kindness, the charities he performed, never will be known. Like every man who truly loves his fellow, the keynote of Mr. Kiene’s life was modesty. It is related of him that when the most recent history of Dubuque county was in preparation, a review of Mr. Kiene which had been prepared by the compiler was sent the subject for review. The story of his life had been told without attempt at eulogy. In portraying the life of a man like Mr. Kiene, the bare statements of fact were bound to convey a story of splendid achievement. Mr. Kiene objected and the review was cut down to a bare chronicle of dates and events in his life. This modesty characterized his entire life. No man with a large part in public affairs ever shrunk from the limelight more than he.
War Record Recited
Mr. C. H. Berg, who has been a close friend of Mr. Kiene for many years, gave his record in the Civil war as follows: Mr. Kiene enlisted in Company E, 16th Iowa infantry, in Dubuque, in 1862. He was fourteen years old at the time of his enlistment. He fought in many important battles of the war and was captured in the battle of Atlanta July, 1864. He was confined in the famous Andersonville, Ga., prison until the end of the war, in April, 1865, and was returned to his regiment. He was mustered out at Davenport on June 20, 1865.
Early Career Here
“Upon returning to Dubuque from the war Mr. Kiene went to work in the Herald office as a type setter. After leaving the Herald office he was employed in the Westphal, Hinds hardware store. Later he was connected with the building of river road, holding the position of paymaster under J. K. Graves and J. A. Rhomberg. From there he entered the office of his father, Peter Kiene, Sr., and the firm name was changed to Peter Kiene and Son. At the death of his father, Mr. Kiene became head of the business. Ever since my return from the army I have always been a close friend of Mr. Kiene and have always found him to be the very soul of honor. He was one of the most enterprising citizens in this community and his loss will be keenly felt.”
Was a Philanthropist
“Mr. Kiene was a philanthropist and most of his philanthropic acts have never become known because he was a man who did not let his left hand know what his right hand did.” said Mr. T. W. Ruete, another close friend of the deceased. “He was one of the founders of Finley hospital and was actively engaged on the hospital board until a few years ago. He will be greatly missed by the Dubuque German college, of which he was a staunch friend. Mr. Kiene was a prominent G. A. R. man and was always a true friend of the old soldiers. He was a staunch church member and his death comes as a great blow to the community,”
A Glowing Tribute
Speaking of the death of Mr. Kiene, Attorney L. G. Hurd said: “Mr. Kiene’s death is a loss to the city, and comes as a shock to every citizen. For all that was for the benefit of the town and that was to the good in any of its aspects, he stood – not equivocally or haltingly or with “ifs” and “buts,” but affirmatively, and in the front rank. I doubt if I could name a Dubuquer who will be more greatly missed. I may be pardoned an incident. In 1870, before I knew him even by sight, Judge Austin Adams referred to the large proportion of young men raised in Dubuque who, yielding to temptation, had not “made good,” and then added, “I am inclined to think that young Peter Kiene is going to prove an exception and reverse the rule.” It took but a few of the forty-two years that have since elapsed to demonstrate that Judge Adams’ foresight was correct.”
Judge Bonson’s Eulogy
Hon. Robert Bonson, judge of the district court, when asked for an expression, said, “Our relations have been almost too intimate and personal for me to have anything publicly to say;”: but he finally gave out the following: “The death of Peter Kiene comes with such force and suddenness that not only his friends but the whole community is appealed[sic]. A self-made man he climbed the ladder of success. He was always charitably inclined, he exhibited a public spirit that was commendable, he lived a life of industry and thrift and honor, with a love for family and those that were dear to him. We may well and truthfully say of him that his life was a model one.”
Death Great Loss
Judge Kintzinger when informed of the death of Mr. Kiene, said: “He was one of the real men of Dubuque. I have known him all of my life and have yet to hear aught against his character. I, personally, know of many of the good things he did for humanity, did them without the flare of publicity. He was always amiable, more than that, a good friend to all whom he chanced to meet. In the death of Mr. Kiene, the city has lost a man whom it can scarcely replace.”
A Loveable Character
George W. Healty, who has been identified with Mr. Kiene in Grand Army and other work for many years, when asked for an expression on the death of Mr. Kiene, could scarcely talk, being so overcome with emotion. He said: “Peter Kiene was one of the most lovable characters who ever called Dubuque his home. I have known him personally for more than fifty years. In all of that time I never knew him to say an ill word of a living person except that ill word was deserving. I have known of many of his acts of charity and kindness which were not intended for the general public. He was one of the youngest men who served the Union armies and there he made a record for himself which will be a heritage for his posterity. The death of Mr. Kiene is a personal shock to me, is a great shock to the members of our society, the G.A.R., and it is one from which we will not soon recover.”
Led a Model Life
Sheriff Dunn said: “The death of Peter Kiene is a shock to the community. He led a model life, he was kind and courteous to all, pleasant to meet, agreeable and sincere in everything he said. His strict honesty, manliness, fairness and impartiality were marked features of his character. His charitable actions are familiar to all. My personal acquaintance of over forty years with him had ripened into friendship that seems cruel to terminate by death.
Had Interest of Public at Heart
Prof. F. T. Oldt, formerly superintendent of the schools of the city and now a professor in the German Presbyterian college, said: “The death of Mr. Kiene is a personal sorrow to me. He was one of the first men I became acquainted with when I came to Dubuque seventeen years ago In my work during all of these years, I have been frequently thrown into the company of Mr. Kiene. I found him always alert and ever ready to do what he could to advance the interests of the city and the people generally. He was ever ready to do a good deed without the expectation of gain or thanks.” At a special meeting of the directors of Dubuque Industrial Corporation Friday morning the following expression of grief was unanimously adopted: “Peter Kiene, one of the best beloved as well as one of the most highly esteemed citizens who has ever graced the roster of Dubuque’s citizenship was called to his maker early this morning. And we, the Board of Directors of the Dubuque Industrial Corporation of which Peter Kiene was an honored member, have gathered in special meeting by common wish to officially express our grief at the great loss to this organization and to Dubuque of so valuable a man. Peter Kiene exemplified American manhood in a way that justifies us in expressing the highest encomiums concerning his memory. The loving head of a happy family, he carried his gentle but powerful influence throughout this whole city and region. We feel that few men have ever lived in our midst who have combined to a greater degree those lovable qualities which made him so popular along with his great activities which were so largely responsible for the integrity and progress of our city. He loved his fellow man. We have therefor unanimously decided to convey to the family of the deceased a copy of this expression of grief at the passing of a just man, a true friend and a citizen of high ideals.”
Contributor: Pinkscraps
1898 Apr 15, The Courier, P8, Waterloo, Iowa
Peter Kiene, Sr., Dead
Demise of a Dubuque Pioneer – Nearly Sixty Year[sic] in Dubuque
Dubuque Telegraph, 14th. The demise of Peter Kiene Sr., at 12:45 this morning has caused profound sorrow throughout the community. His demise was not unexpected for the reason that announcement was made yesterday of his critical illness and all day and evening his numerous friends and many others who knew of him as one of the earliest settlers in Dubuque and one of our most revered citizens, made anxious inquiries as to his condition. Deceased was born Dec. 15, 1819, at Canton Graubundten, Switzerland, and emigrated to America in 1840 and landed in Dubuque August 15 of that year. He was engaged in mining and smelting near Galena until about 1845 when he opened a hotel on Fifth and Main streets. In 1849 he built “Harmony Hall” on Clay street. In 1858 he engaged in the insurance business which his son and other descendants now conduct on Fourth and Main streets, he being the senior member of P. Kiene & Son. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the residence on Broadway and will be under the auspices of Schiller lodge, I.O.O.F. The services will be conducted by Rev. H. Ficke. The burial will be private and interment will be in Linwood.
1912 Dec 6, The Telegraph-Herald, P1, 5, Dubuque, Iowa
Peter Kiene in Final Summons
Passes Away at Early Hour Friday after Paralytic Stroke
Was Native of Dubuque
The passing of Mr. Peter Kiene, which took place unexpectedly at the family residence, No. 15 West Locust street, shortly after midnight Friday morning, removes from the community one whose influence has been perhaps as potent in its uplift as that of any Dubuquer of his generation. He gave freely of his time and money for the betterment of conditions. He was identified with practically every charitable enterprise and every civic improvement in which the public at large was concerned. A constant worker, his life was so ordered and timed that the output of his achievement day in and day out was prodigious. Clean and regular as was the rule of his existence his taking off at the age of sixty-six, can be regarded in no other light than untimely. He was in the full possession of his faculties and vigor when last Tuesday night, after attending a banquet at the Dubuque Club, he was stricken with apoplexy. The affliction affected the right side and impaired his speech, although reports form the bedside on Thursday indicated the patient was improving and hope was held out he might entirely recover. A change for the worse set in Thursday night and shortly after twelve o’clock Friday morning the final summons came.
Death a Shock to Whole City
The whole city was shocked when it heard of the death of Mr. Kiene. He was a life-long resident of Dubuque, having been born here November 2nd, 1846. He was a veteran of the Civil war, having enlisted in Company E, 16th Iowa, when less than fifteen years of age, and served three and a half years. He was wounded twice and spent seven months in Andersonville prison and two months in Libby. Mr. Kiene was the senior member of Kiene and Son, doing a real estate and insurance business at Fourth and Main streets. He was one of Dubuque’s substantial citizens and was deeply interested in everything that concerned the welfare of his native place. He was a most faithful member of Westminster Presbyterian church. He was a member of Hyde Clark Post of the G.A.R.; of Metropolitan Lodge No. 49, Dubuque Chapter of the Masonic Order; a member of Siloam Commandery and of Harmony Lodge, I.O.O.F. For years Mr. Kiene was a member of the board of education, having served as president for some time. He was a director of the First National bank, a charter member of the Library Board and a member of the Board of Director of the Industrial Corporation.
Funeral Sunday
The funeral services will be held in Westminster Presbyterian church at 2:30 Sunday afternoon, and the burial will take place at Linwood cemetery. The immediate members of the family who survive Mr. Kiene are his wife, his daughter Mrs. W. J. Blalock of Atlanta, Ga.; his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Maud Kiene of Sarnia, Ontario; two grand daughters, Eugenia and Marion, and a sister Mrs. L. N. Converse of this city. Mr. Kiene was the type of a citizen a community call illy spare[sic]. He was interested in all that was good. Every worthy cause found in him a loyal friend and many a burdened heart was cheered by his smile and words of encouragement, as well as by his more substantial tokens of interest. One of the most beautiful traits of character possessed by Mr. Kiene was his love for children. Every little child finding a warm friend in him and responding instantly to his kindly approach. He was always doing something to brighten the lives of little children.
The Great Sorrow of His Life
Several years ago Mr. Kiene lost his only son, Eugene, who had been most closely associated with him in business and whose loss he felt most keenly. But his great sorrow only served to make him broader and nobler and every one who came in contact with him felt in the presence of one whose trials had but made him more kindly and sympathetic. Commercially Mr. Kiene’s interests were large. He was one of the city’s most prosperous business men.
Dubuquers Pay Tribute
Fellow Citizens and Associates Tell of Mr. Kiene’s Virtues
Following are a few expressions on the life and work of Mr. Kiene. This list might have been multiplied indefinitely. The subject was universally loved and the innumerable acts of kindness, the charities he performed, never will be known. Like every man who truly loves his fellow, the keynote of Mr. Kiene’s life was modesty. It is related of him that when the most recent history of Dubuque county was in preparation, a review of Mr. Kiene which had been prepared by the compiler was sent the subject for review. The story of his life had been told without attempt at eulogy. In portraying the life of a man like Mr. Kiene, the bare statements of fact were bound to convey a story of splendid achievement. Mr. Kiene objected and the review was cut down to a bare chronicle of dates and events in his life. This modesty characterized his entire life. No man with a large part in public affairs ever shrunk from the limelight more than he.
War Record Recited
Mr. C. H. Berg, who has been a close friend of Mr. Kiene for many years, gave his record in the Civil war as follows: Mr. Kiene enlisted in Company E, 16th Iowa infantry, in Dubuque, in 1862. He was fourteen years old at the time of his enlistment. He fought in many important battles of the war and was captured in the battle of Atlanta July, 1864. He was confined in the famous Andersonville, Ga., prison until the end of the war, in April, 1865, and was returned to his regiment. He was mustered out at Davenport on June 20, 1865.
Early Career Here
“Upon returning to Dubuque from the war Mr. Kiene went to work in the Herald office as a type setter. After leaving the Herald office he was employed in the Westphal, Hinds hardware store. Later he was connected with the building of river road, holding the position of paymaster under J. K. Graves and J. A. Rhomberg. From there he entered the office of his father, Peter Kiene, Sr., and the firm name was changed to Peter Kiene and Son. At the death of his father, Mr. Kiene became head of the business. Ever since my return from the army I have always been a close friend of Mr. Kiene and have always found him to be the very soul of honor. He was one of the most enterprising citizens in this community and his loss will be keenly felt.”
Was a Philanthropist
“Mr. Kiene was a philanthropist and most of his philanthropic acts have never become known because he was a man who did not let his left hand know what his right hand did.” said Mr. T. W. Ruete, another close friend of the deceased. “He was one of the founders of Finley hospital and was actively engaged on the hospital board until a few years ago. He will be greatly missed by the Dubuque German college, of which he was a staunch friend. Mr. Kiene was a prominent G. A. R. man and was always a true friend of the old soldiers. He was a staunch church member and his death comes as a great blow to the community,”
A Glowing Tribute
Speaking of the death of Mr. Kiene, Attorney L. G. Hurd said: “Mr. Kiene’s death is a loss to the city, and comes as a shock to every citizen. For all that was for the benefit of the town and that was to the good in any of its aspects, he stood – not equivocally or haltingly or with “ifs” and “buts,” but affirmatively, and in the front rank. I doubt if I could name a Dubuquer who will be more greatly missed. I may be pardoned an incident. In 1870, before I knew him even by sight, Judge Austin Adams referred to the large proportion of young men raised in Dubuque who, yielding to temptation, had not “made good,” and then added, “I am inclined to think that young Peter Kiene is going to prove an exception and reverse the rule.” It took but a few of the forty-two years that have since elapsed to demonstrate that Judge Adams’ foresight was correct.”
Judge Bonson’s Eulogy
Hon. Robert Bonson, judge of the district court, when asked for an expression, said, “Our relations have been almost too intimate and personal for me to have anything publicly to say;”: but he finally gave out the following: “The death of Peter Kiene comes with such force and suddenness that not only his friends but the whole community is appealed[sic]. A self-made man he climbed the ladder of success. He was always charitably inclined, he exhibited a public spirit that was commendable, he lived a life of industry and thrift and honor, with a love for family and those that were dear to him. We may well and truthfully say of him that his life was a model one.”
Death Great Loss
Judge Kintzinger when informed of the death of Mr. Kiene, said: “He was one of the real men of Dubuque. I have known him all of my life and have yet to hear aught against his character. I, personally, know of many of the good things he did for humanity, did them without the flare of publicity. He was always amiable, more than that, a good friend to all whom he chanced to meet. In the death of Mr. Kiene, the city has lost a man whom it can scarcely replace.”
A Loveable Character
George W. Healty, who has been identified with Mr. Kiene in Grand Army and other work for many years, when asked for an expression on the death of Mr. Kiene, could scarcely talk, being so overcome with emotion. He said: “Peter Kiene was one of the most lovable characters who ever called Dubuque his home. I have known him personally for more than fifty years. In all of that time I never knew him to say an ill word of a living person except that ill word was deserving. I have known of many of his acts of charity and kindness which were not intended for the general public. He was one of the youngest men who served the Union armies and there he made a record for himself which will be a heritage for his posterity. The death of Mr. Kiene is a personal shock to me, is a great shock to the members of our society, the G.A.R., and it is one from which we will not soon recover.”
Led a Model Life
Sheriff Dunn said: “The death of Peter Kiene is a shock to the community. He led a model life, he was kind and courteous to all, pleasant to meet, agreeable and sincere in everything he said. His strict honesty, manliness, fairness and impartiality were marked features of his character. His charitable actions are familiar to all. My personal acquaintance of over forty years with him had ripened into friendship that seems cruel to terminate by death.
Had Interest of Public at Heart
Prof. F. T. Oldt, formerly superintendent of the schools of the city and now a professor in the German Presbyterian college, said: “The death of Mr. Kiene is a personal sorrow to me. He was one of the first men I became acquainted with when I came to Dubuque seventeen years ago In my work during all of these years, I have been frequently thrown into the company of Mr. Kiene. I found him always alert and ever ready to do what he could to advance the interests of the city and the people generally. He was ever ready to do a good deed without the expectation of gain or thanks.” At a special meeting of the directors of Dubuque Industrial Corporation Friday morning the following expression of grief was unanimously adopted: “Peter Kiene, one of the best beloved as well as one of the most highly esteemed citizens who has ever graced the roster of Dubuque’s citizenship was called to his maker early this morning. And we, the Board of Directors of the Dubuque Industrial Corporation of which Peter Kiene was an honored member, have gathered in special meeting by common wish to officially express our grief at the great loss to this organization and to Dubuque of so valuable a man. Peter Kiene exemplified American manhood in a way that justifies us in expressing the highest encomiums concerning his memory. The loving head of a happy family, he carried his gentle but powerful influence throughout this whole city and region. We feel that few men have ever lived in our midst who have combined to a greater degree those lovable qualities which made him so popular along with his great activities which were so largely responsible for the integrity and progress of our city. He loved his fellow man. We have therefor unanimously decided to convey to the family of the deceased a copy of this expression of grief at the passing of a just man, a true friend and a citizen of high ideals.”
Contributor: Pinkscraps
Peter Kiene, Sr., Dead
Demise of a Dubuque Pioneer – Nearly Sixty Year[sic] in Dubuque
Dubuque Telegraph, 14th. The demise of Peter Kiene Sr., at 12:45 this morning has caused profound sorrow throughout the community. His demise was not unexpected for the reason that announcement was made yesterday of his critical illness and all day and evening his numerous friends and many others who knew of him as one of the earliest settlers in Dubuque and one of our most revered citizens, made anxious inquiries as to his condition. Deceased was born Dec. 15, 1819, at Canton Graubundten, Switzerland, and emigrated to America in 1840 and landed in Dubuque August 15 of that year. He was engaged in mining and smelting near Galena until about 1845 when he opened a hotel on Fifth and Main streets. In 1849 he built “Harmony Hall” on Clay street. In 1858 he engaged in the insurance business which his son and other descendants now conduct on Fourth and Main streets, he being the senior member of P. Kiene & Son. The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the residence on Broadway and will be under the auspices of Schiller lodge, I.O.O.F. The services will be conducted by Rev. H. Ficke. The burial will be private and interment will be in Linwood.
1912 Dec 6, The Telegraph-Herald, P1, 5, Dubuque, Iowa
Peter Kiene in Final Summons
Passes Away at Early Hour Friday after Paralytic Stroke
Was Native of Dubuque
The passing of Mr. Peter Kiene, which took place unexpectedly at the family residence, No. 15 West Locust street, shortly after midnight Friday morning, removes from the community one whose influence has been perhaps as potent in its uplift as that of any Dubuquer of his generation. He gave freely of his time and money for the betterment of conditions. He was identified with practically every charitable enterprise and every civic improvement in which the public at large was concerned. A constant worker, his life was so ordered and timed that the output of his achievement day in and day out was prodigious. Clean and regular as was the rule of his existence his taking off at the age of sixty-six, can be regarded in no other light than untimely. He was in the full possession of his faculties and vigor when last Tuesday night, after attending a banquet at the Dubuque Club, he was stricken with apoplexy. The affliction affected the right side and impaired his speech, although reports form the bedside on Thursday indicated the patient was improving and hope was held out he might entirely recover. A change for the worse set in Thursday night and shortly after twelve o’clock Friday morning the final summons came.
Death a Shock to Whole City
The whole city was shocked when it heard of the death of Mr. Kiene. He was a life-long resident of Dubuque, having been born here November 2nd, 1846. He was a veteran of the Civil war, having enlisted in Company E, 16th Iowa, when less than fifteen years of age, and served three and a half years. He was wounded twice and spent seven months in Andersonville prison and two months in Libby. Mr. Kiene was the senior member of Kiene and Son, doing a real estate and insurance business at Fourth and Main streets. He was one of Dubuque’s substantial citizens and was deeply interested in everything that concerned the welfare of his native place. He was a most faithful member of Westminster Presbyterian church. He was a member of Hyde Clark Post of the G.A.R.; of Metropolitan Lodge No. 49, Dubuque Chapter of the Masonic Order; a member of Siloam Commandery and of Harmony Lodge, I.O.O.F. For years Mr. Kiene was a member of the board of education, having served as president for some time. He was a director of the First National bank, a charter member of the Library Board and a member of the Board of Director of the Industrial Corporation.
Funeral Sunday
The funeral services will be held in Westminster Presbyterian church at 2:30 Sunday afternoon, and the burial will take place at Linwood cemetery. The immediate members of the family who survive Mr. Kiene are his wife, his daughter Mrs. W. J. Blalock of Atlanta, Ga.; his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Maud Kiene of Sarnia, Ontario; two grand daughters, Eugenia and Marion, and a sister Mrs. L. N. Converse of this city. Mr. Kiene was the type of a citizen a community call illy spare[sic]. He was interested in all that was good. Every worthy cause found in him a loyal friend and many a burdened heart was cheered by his smile and words of encouragement, as well as by his more substantial tokens of interest. One of the most beautiful traits of character possessed by Mr. Kiene was his love for children. Every little child finding a warm friend in him and responding instantly to his kindly approach. He was always doing something to brighten the lives of little children.
The Great Sorrow of His Life
Several years ago Mr. Kiene lost his only son, Eugene, who had been most closely associated with him in business and whose loss he felt most keenly. But his great sorrow only served to make him broader and nobler and every one who came in contact with him felt in the presence of one whose trials had but made him more kindly and sympathetic. Commercially Mr. Kiene’s interests were large. He was one of the city’s most prosperous business men.
Dubuquers Pay Tribute
Fellow Citizens and Associates Tell of Mr. Kiene’s Virtues
Following are a few expressions on the life and work of Mr. Kiene. This list might have been multiplied indefinitely. The subject was universally loved and the innumerable acts of kindness, the charities he performed, never will be known. Like every man who truly loves his fellow, the keynote of Mr. Kiene’s life was modesty. It is related of him that when the most recent history of Dubuque county was in preparation, a review of Mr. Kiene which had been prepared by the compiler was sent the subject for review. The story of his life had been told without attempt at eulogy. In portraying the life of a man like Mr. Kiene, the bare statements of fact were bound to convey a story of splendid achievement. Mr. Kiene objected and the review was cut down to a bare chronicle of dates and events in his life. This modesty characterized his entire life. No man with a large part in public affairs ever shrunk from the limelight more than he.
War Record Recited
Mr. C. H. Berg, who has been a close friend of Mr. Kiene for many years, gave his record in the Civil war as follows: Mr. Kiene enlisted in Company E, 16th Iowa infantry, in Dubuque, in 1862. He was fourteen years old at the time of his enlistment. He fought in many important battles of the war and was captured in the battle of Atlanta July, 1864. He was confined in the famous Andersonville, Ga., prison until the end of the war, in April, 1865, and was returned to his regiment. He was mustered out at Davenport on June 20, 1865.
Early Career Here
“Upon returning to Dubuque from the war Mr. Kiene went to work in the Herald office as a type setter. After leaving the Herald office he was employed in the Westphal, Hinds hardware store. Later he was connected with the building of river road, holding the position of paymaster under J. K. Graves and J. A. Rhomberg. From there he entered the office of his father, Peter Kiene, Sr., and the firm name was changed to Peter Kiene and Son. At the death of his father, Mr. Kiene became head of the business. Ever since my return from the army I have always been a close friend of Mr. Kiene and have always found him to be the very soul of honor. He was one of the most enterprising citizens in this community and his loss will be keenly felt.”
Was a Philanthropist
“Mr. Kiene was a philanthropist and most of his philanthropic acts have never become known because he was a man who did not let his left hand know what his right hand did.” said Mr. T. W. Ruete, another close friend of the deceased. “He was one of the founders of Finley hospital and was actively engaged on the hospital board until a few years ago. He will be greatly missed by the Dubuque German college, of which he was a staunch friend. Mr. Kiene was a prominent G. A. R. man and was always a true friend of the old soldiers. He was a staunch church member and his death comes as a great blow to the community,”
A Glowing Tribute
Speaking of the death of Mr. Kiene, Attorney L. G. Hurd said: “Mr. Kiene’s death is a loss to the city, and comes as a shock to every citizen. For all that was for the benefit of the town and that was to the good in any of its aspects, he stood – not equivocally or haltingly or with “ifs” and “buts,” but affirmatively, and in the front rank. I doubt if I could name a Dubuquer who will be more greatly missed. I may be pardoned an incident. In 1870, before I knew him even by sight, Judge Austin Adams referred to the large proportion of young men raised in Dubuque who, yielding to temptation, had not “made good,” and then added, “I am inclined to think that young Peter Kiene is going to prove an exception and reverse the rule.” It took but a few of the forty-two years that have since elapsed to demonstrate that Judge Adams’ foresight was correct.”
Judge Bonson’s Eulogy
Hon. Robert Bonson, judge of the district court, when asked for an expression, said, “Our relations have been almost too intimate and personal for me to have anything publicly to say;”: but he finally gave out the following: “The death of Peter Kiene comes with such force and suddenness that not only his friends but the whole community is appealed[sic]. A self-made man he climbed the ladder of success. He was always charitably inclined, he exhibited a public spirit that was commendable, he lived a life of industry and thrift and honor, with a love for family and those that were dear to him. We may well and truthfully say of him that his life was a model one.”
Death Great Loss
Judge Kintzinger when informed of the death of Mr. Kiene, said: “He was one of the real men of Dubuque. I have known him all of my life and have yet to hear aught against his character. I, personally, know of many of the good things he did for humanity, did them without the flare of publicity. He was always amiable, more than that, a good friend to all whom he chanced to meet. In the death of Mr. Kiene, the city has lost a man whom it can scarcely replace.”
A Loveable Character
George W. Healty, who has been identified with Mr. Kiene in Grand Army and other work for many years, when asked for an expression on the death of Mr. Kiene, could scarcely talk, being so overcome with emotion. He said: “Peter Kiene was one of the most lovable characters who ever called Dubuque his home. I have known him personally for more than fifty years. In all of that time I never knew him to say an ill word of a living person except that ill word was deserving. I have known of many of his acts of charity and kindness which were not intended for the general public. He was one of the youngest men who served the Union armies and there he made a record for himself which will be a heritage for his posterity. The death of Mr. Kiene is a personal shock to me, is a great shock to the members of our society, the G.A.R., and it is one from which we will not soon recover.”
Led a Model Life
Sheriff Dunn said: “The death of Peter Kiene is a shock to the community. He led a model life, he was kind and courteous to all, pleasant to meet, agreeable and sincere in everything he said. His strict honesty, manliness, fairness and impartiality were marked features of his character. His charitable actions are familiar to all. My personal acquaintance of over forty years with him had ripened into friendship that seems cruel to terminate by death.
Had Interest of Public at Heart
Prof. F. T. Oldt, formerly superintendent of the schools of the city and now a professor in the German Presbyterian college, said: “The death of Mr. Kiene is a personal sorrow to me. He was one of the first men I became acquainted with when I came to Dubuque seventeen years ago In my work during all of these years, I have been frequently thrown into the company of Mr. Kiene. I found him always alert and ever ready to do what he could to advance the interests of the city and the people generally. He was ever ready to do a good deed without the expectation of gain or thanks.” At a special meeting of the directors of Dubuque Industrial Corporation Friday morning the following expression of grief was unanimously adopted: “Peter Kiene, one of the best beloved as well as one of the most highly esteemed citizens who has ever graced the roster of Dubuque’s citizenship was called to his maker early this morning. And we, the Board of Directors of the Dubuque Industrial Corporation of which Peter Kiene was an honored member, have gathered in special meeting by common wish to officially express our grief at the great loss to this organization and to Dubuque of so valuable a man. Peter Kiene exemplified American manhood in a way that justifies us in expressing the highest encomiums concerning his memory. The loving head of a happy family, he carried his gentle but powerful influence throughout this whole city and region. We feel that few men have ever lived in our midst who have combined to a greater degree those lovable qualities which made him so popular along with his great activities which were so largely responsible for the integrity and progress of our city. He loved his fellow man. We have therefor unanimously decided to convey to the family of the deceased a copy of this expression of grief at the passing of a just man, a true friend and a citizen of high ideals.”
Contributor: Pinkscraps
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