Dubuque, Iowa is the ‘Home of America’s River’ sitting on the Mississippi River at the corner of three states. One bridge out of the city will lead you to Wisconsin, while the other will take you to Illinois. The city is home to the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the Diamond Jo Casino and you can still take an ole’ fashion trolley ride and stop at the soda fountain for a root beer.
But the biggest, little attraction in town is the Fenelon Place Elevator, the world’s steepest, shortest scenic railway. Alex didn’t hesitate to climb aboard. In about three minutes, one small car makes a vertical climb up 189 feet as the second car simutaneously lowers back down. The two cars act as a balance against each other on the rugged original pulley system. The unique little elevator was built in the late 1800s for the personal use of a rich banker whose home sat on top of the hill with a view of the banks of the Mississippi, but whose bank sat in the downtown at the bottom of the steep incline. He just wanted to come home for lunch daily. So, to save time, he built the elevator for his own pleasure.
But the biggest, little attraction in town is the Fenelon Place Elevator, the world’s steepest, shortest scenic railway. Alex didn’t hesitate to climb aboard. In about three minutes, one small car makes a vertical climb up 189 feet as the second car simutaneously lowers back down. The two cars act as a balance against each other on the rugged original pulley system. The unique little elevator was built in the late 1800s for the personal use of a rich banker whose home sat on top of the hill with a view of the banks of the Mississippi, but whose bank sat in the downtown at the bottom of the steep incline. He just wanted to come home for lunch daily. So, to save time, he built the elevator for his own pleasure.
These days, even Alex and I can save calories, one way or round trip, for just a couple of bucks.
