Langworthy House

Langworthy House is a two-story brick residence in Dubuque with tall windows, a columned entrance, and a glass-enclosed cupola at the top. The entire structure follows an octagonal shape, which stands apart from the rectangular layouts common in that period.

Edward Langworthy, one of the first settlers in Dubuque, commissioned architect John F. Rague to build this octagonal house in 1856. The building emerged during a period when innovative home designs reflected the preferences of the wealthy upper class.

The house shows how wealthy Iowa residents in the 1800s incorporated advanced design ideas into their homes. The building style reflects the upper class desire to stand out through architectural innovation.

The house stands in Dubuque and preserves its original structural elements and architectural details from the 1800s. Visitors should view the facade and unique shape from outside to fully understand the unusual octagonal foundation.

The house follows an octagonal design that stands apart from the square and rectangular layouts typical of the 1800s. This unusual floor plan was part of an architectural trend that sought to blend function with design innovation.

Location: Iowa

Architects: John F. Rague

GPS coordinates: 42.49500,-90.67917

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:47