Organized in 1968 by Vern Haberkorn, six 14 year old teams played in the league inaugural season.  In 1969 the league expanded to seven teams and in 1970 to eight teams.  In 1971 the league grew to 12 teams playing their games at Weirich Field, which is property of Holy Ghost Parish. 1974 saw the start of the 12 year old division, with each 12 year old team affiliated with a 14 year old team.  In 1985 the 10 year old division was initiated and in 1998 the eight year old division was initiated.  The league has continued to this day with 15 franchises with a 14 year old, 12 year old, 10 year old and 8 year old team associated with each franchise.  There are in excess of 700 boys participating in the league under this system.

Teams did not have uniforms during the early years but some teams began getting jerseys after the first year.  1981 was the first year full uniform first appeared and by the end of the 1982 season all teams had full uniforms.

The Independent League Hall of Fame was started in 1974.  Players and coaches are voted into the Hall of Fame based on their performance and are honored and inducted at the Annual Independent League Banquet.

The rich heritage and prestige enjoyed by the Dubuque Independent League is a reflection on the efforts and dedication of the many past and present managers, coaches and players who can be proud of their accomplishments in the league.