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History in a New Light

We invite you to join us in restoring one of downtown Milwaukee ’s most recognizable landmarks – the beautiful Beaux Arts building which now serves as the Society’s home. Originally constructed to house the Second Ward Savings Bank, the building was designated a historic landmark in 1988.

Playing its part in the making of Milwaukee, the last 95 years of time and nature have taken their toll on this architectural jewel. The Historical Society’s Board of Directors determined that renovations and restoration were needed to preserve the building itself and to make it a facility for today – more suitable for the Society’s programs and a resource for our community.

Take a Closer Look at our Progress
Take a walk around the exterior of the Milwaukee County Historical Center and you will note that each of the building's 27 cast iron windows have been re-glazed and repainted, giving the building a much needed face lift. This was completed during Phase I in 2005 at a cost of $1.3 million.

Time your walk at twilight or after dark and enjoy “LifeLight,” a public art project that illuminates the Center’s windows at night. Created by New York artist Robert Wogan, this light show has brought this downtown landmark back to life. Easily viewed from the Marcus Center, across the river, and Pere Marquette Park, the light display is changed for special events and holidays. (Temporarily out of service during construction.)

During 2007, a variety of accessibility issues were addressed in Phase II. Changes inside include new ADA accessibile restrooms and a new service elevator.

Expansion and restoration of our renowned Research Library and administrative offices duirng 2008-2009 as part of Phase III has improved public access to the vast historical resources maintained and preserved by the Historical Society.

Phase IV
We are now in Phase IV of the renovation and are completing the final major mechanical upgrades and aesthetic enhancements during 2010. With this, the Center will become the restored and revitalized facility that is the goal of this major campaign. All mechanicals – HVAC, plumbing and electrical – will be upgraded to today’s standards. Restoration of the building’s elaborate plaster ceilings will bring the neoclassic interiors back to the grandeur it had in 1913.

The complete restoration of this elegant facility will provide beautiful meeting and event facilities for private parties and receptions and increase visibility of the work of the Historical Society. Take a look at what will be the new interior of the Historical Center.