History

Yesterday’s Milwaukee: Broadway in Late 1860s
Yesterday’s Milwaukee

Broadway in Late 1860s

Then called Main St. and just south of Wisconsin, it boasted the Newhall House Hotel.

Bar Exam: Hybrid Lounge, City’s Newest Gay Bar
Bar Exam

Hybrid Lounge, City’s Newest Gay Bar

In a building whose history goes back to 1890, it attracts a hybrid of gay and straight folks.

A Freshwater Controversy: Why the Estabrook Dam Was Created
A Freshwater Controversy

Why the Estabrook Dam Was Created

Ancient geological conditions created troublesome stretch of the Milwaukee River which led to unique solution. Part 2 of a series.

Yesterday’s Milwaukee: Wisconsin Ave. and Northwestern Mutual, 1870s
Yesterday’s Milwaukee

Wisconsin Ave. and Northwestern Mutual, 1870s

The company's new headquarters was proof of the city's increasingly cosmopolitan style.

Bar Exam: 1894 Building Boasts New Orleans-Style Bar
Bar Exam

1894 Building Boasts New Orleans-Style Bar

New Brass Alley on Third St. has spent heavily on atmosphere. Evolution ping pong bar is on 2nd floor.

City Streets: The Short Swampy History of Chicago Street
City Streets

The Short Swampy History of Chicago Street

Built on a marsh, it became a magnet for immigrants.

Yesterday’s Milwaukee: South Side of Wisconsin Ave., 1868
Yesterday’s Milwaukee

South Side of Wisconsin Ave., 1868

Then called Wisconsin St., it was a hot spot for photography studios.

City Streets: Astor Street Was For The “Bluebellies”
City Streets

Astor Street Was For The “Bluebellies”

The highest point between lake and river was where wealthiest people settled.

Bar Exam: Oscar’s Is a Classic South Side Pub
Bar Exam

Oscar’s Is a Classic South Side Pub

A century old, just below 16th St. Viaduct, known for its hamburgers and reasonably priced micro beers.

Yesterday’s Milwaukee: Wisconsin and Broadway, 1867
Yesterday’s Milwaukee

Wisconsin and Broadway, 1867

The well-dressed people in the photo had to stand rigidly in place, so the photo wouldn't be ruined.

City Streets: Ogden and Lyon Almost Obliterated
City Streets

Ogden and Lyon Almost Obliterated

Park East Freeway would have run to lakefront, eliminating both streets.

Yesterday’s Milwaukee: Love Nest of A Beer Baroness
Yesterday’s Milwaukee

Love Nest of A Beer Baroness

Huge 1889 mansion is where Pabst owner continued her affair with her daughter's husband.