[4] A predecessor to the Fourth Street Elevator was built in 1882 for the private use of local banker and former state senator J.K. Graves.

At the top, there are two observation decks, which offer a commanding view of the downtown Dubuque area.

The two cars counterbalance each other, drawing motive power from an engine in the station house at the top of the hill.

The engine only needs to overcome inertia and friction and compensate for the varying weight of the passengers in the cars.

[citation needed] The Fourth Street Elevator is run from April 1 to November 30.