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The Fessler home

1110 5th Avenue North

One of the city’s most historic houses is this brick residence at 1110 5th Ave. N. built by pioneer storekeeper and Indian fur trader David Fessler.

The original portion of the two-story home dates back to 1869 when it was erected by Fessler in the northeast part of the town in order to make it easier to conduct his fur trading business with the Indians who camped in the nearby north woods.

Fessler came to Fort Dodge from Germany in 1858 and shortly after arrival opened a trading center and clothing store. He started his fur trading business in his first small home located where the Blanden Art Gallery now stands. It was a considerable distance from this place to the Indian camp so Fessler purchased property in the northeast part of the growing town and built a new home there.

The rear of the present home is the original part of the house built more than 100 years ago. The old time brick is still in good condition as are the basement walls made of stone. In pioneer days there were gunslots in the foundation walls for use in event of Indian attacks.

The house now has four rooms and bath on the first floor and four rooms and bath on the second floor. The property has changed hands many times in past years and is now owned and occupied by George Bradshaw, Fort Dodge attorney, and daughter, Vivian.

Fessler’s home on Fifth Avenue North was reported one of the largest and most elaborate of the pioneer dwellings and included a 20x24 parlor. Adjoining was the flower room with a white gypsum floor and at the rear was the large kitchen. The kitchen was used primarily as a trading place with the Indians when they came out of the nearby woods to sell their furs. They were in groups and always remained at the house for a meal.

Fessler is also remembered for buildings he erected along Central Avenue one of which housed the Fessler Opera House, a popular pioneer entertainment center. Fessler had four sons and three daughters. One of the sons, Louis, was county recorder here for many years.

Mrs. Marion Gilday of Fort Dodge is a granddaughter of the elder David Fessler. Her father was Louis Fessler.