Incorporated in 1882, the Dubuque Linseed Oil Paint Company manufactured an estimated 1000 gallons of paints daily. Located in a large four story structure, with cellar, the company was powered by a twenty-five horse power steam engine. From 1882-1887, the firm had manufactured 260,000 gallons of mixed paints sold in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, the Dakotas, Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas and Texas.

 

You may hear this building lovingly referred to as “the Betty Building.” “Betty” refers to the 1940’s sign that had appeared on the 9th Street side of the building. Betty Baxter products included the commercial production of biscuits and soap.

 

In 2014, Wilmac Properties, with Gronen as Project Manager, began rehabilitation of the Linseed Oil Paintworks Building. Under the name of Linseed Lofts, it now offers 16 modern and stylish residential apartments. Rehabilitation was completed in August of 2015.