History

The City of Asbury is located in eastern Dubuque County, adjacent to the west side of the City of Dubuque in Dubuque County. Asbury was founded in the 1830s principally by Methodists who named their church after Francis Asbury, the first bishop of their faith in America.

One would surmise that Asbury was incorporated in pioneering days, when it and scores of other places that are now flyspecks on the map showed promise of rapid growth. It is true that the city was active commercially before the automobile facilitated travel to Dubuque but that background has nothing to do with the incorporation.

Asbury achieved city status in 1933, after repeal of prohibition, in order to have legalization of beer sales. Incorporation was necessary because it was not until later that county boards of supervisors were empowered to issue beer permits in rural areas.

One of the first census counts in Asbury accredits the city with 27 citizens. Between 1960 and 1970 Asbury grew from 71 to 410 residents. At that time, Asbury was the fastest growing city in the State. Since 1970 we have grown to more than 2450 citizens.

Asbury is a safe and friendly residential community – holding strong family values for the future.

ASBURY – MORE THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE!