Council adopts ordinance to rename street in honor of Dr. William Finlayson

Today (Tuesday, November 22), the Common Council unanimously adopted file #220511 – an ordinance renaming North 5th Street, from West Capitol Drive to West Walnut Street, Dr. William Finlayson Street. The file was introduced by Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II.

Dr. Finlayson is a beloved obstetrician and gynecologist based in Milwaukee who has served in the United States Army (World War II), was admitted as the first Black doctor at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Mount Sinai, opened Milwaukee’s first Black-owned bank – North Milwaukee State Bank, was an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc., and has served on numerous boards and commissions in the name of improving the community.

“Dr. Finlayson has made a tremendous impact on so many people throughout Milwaukee for decades, and I am honored that we can rename a portion of 5th Street in his honor in Milwaukee’s Bronzeville area,” said Alderwoman Coggs. “I want to thank the community groups, residents, and other stakeholders who have shown their support for this street renaming.”

Alderman Stamper agrees wholeheartedly. “I am thrilled to sponsor this legislation that serves as a celebration of the legacy and many great accomplishments of Dr. Finlayson. He touched the lives of countless people, and this is one way in which we as a city can recognize his wide-reaching impact. I look forward to the official renaming ceremony to follow,” he said.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.