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A Striking Late 19th Century View of Milwaukee
This panoramic view of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, created in 1898, offers a sweeping perspective of the city as seen from the City Hall Tower, highlighting its vibrant urban landscape during the late 19th century. The chromolithograph provides a richly detailed depiction of Milwaukee’s architecture, streets, waterways, and prominent landmarks, with individual buildings and districts clearly identified.
The foreground prominently features Milwaukee's City Hall, with its distinctive clock tower and architectural grandeur symbolizing the city’s growth and civic pride. The American flag atop the tower emphasizes the city’s patriotic spirit. Surrounding the City Hall are bustling streets and an array of brick and stone buildings, reflecting the industrial and commercial prosperity of the time.
Key thoroughfares are labeled, including East Water Street and Market Street, which run parallel and perpendicular to the Milwaukee River. These streets are lined with dense clusters of businesses, warehouses, and civic buildings, showcasing Milwaukee’s role as an economic hub. The Oneida Street Bridge spans the river, connecting different parts of the city and facilitating trade and transportation.
A variety of significant landmarks are identified in the panorama:
- Pabst Brewing Company and Blatz Brewing Company, emblematic of Milwaukee’s famous beer industry, are prominently marked.
- The Public Library and Exposition Building demonstrate the city’s commitment to education and public events.
- The Masonic Temple, Notre Dame Convent, and St. Mary’s Church highlight Milwaukee’s religious and fraternal organizations.
- The Harbor of Refuge and ships along the river indicate the city’s thriving port activities and its connection to Lake Michigan.
This panorama captures Milwaukee during a period of rapid industrial and population growth. The city’s brewing industry, manufacturing, and port activities made it a vital economic center in the Midwest. The detailed rendering of streets and buildings reflects pride in the city’s accomplishments and offers a valuable historical snapshot of its urban development at the close of the 19th century.
Rarity
The view is rare on the market.
Reps lists 5 institutional examples.
