THREE: Volume 3, Issue 6

VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 6

PUBLISHER JIM PLAISTED

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JORDAN DECHAMBRE

DESIGN DIRECTOR MONICA DORO

LAYOUT DESIGNER LUCY RAASCH

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

NAN BIALEK, BOBBY TANZILO STAFF WRITERS EMMA COADY, JORDAN DECHAMBRE, JIM PLAISTED

PHOTOGRAPHER ERIC HALVERSON

EDITORIAL AND STEERING COMMITTEE

LEANN MESTER, MAL MONTOYA, JANET RAASCH, KATHLEEN DOHEARTY PENNISTON, MADDIE WOOD, KATE STRZOK, TRACEY WADSWORTH

PUBLISHED BY HISTORIC THIRD WARD ASSOCIATION

PRESIDENT JACK R. LEMMON

525 E. CHICAGO ST., SUITE 102 | MILWAUKEE, WI 53202

OFFICE@HISTORICTHIRDWARD.ORG

PRINTED AND MAILED FOX CO. PRINTING

ADVERTISING CONTACT JPLAISTED@HISTORICTHIRDWARD.ORG

IT’S BEEN TWO YEARS SINCE WE PUBLISHED OUR FIRST ISSUE OF THREE AND WE ARE SO PROUD OF HOW SHE HAS GROWN UP! THREE is a work of passion and pride for our HTWA staff and the editorial board as we get the opportunity to tell the best and sometimes lesser-known stories about our beloved Historic Third Ward community.

In this issue you will find a multitude of opportunities to get your wellness on — from spas, restaurants and workout places to art venues and everything in between. The neighborhood offers the best in all categories, and is perfect for a wellness retreat for yourself or with friends and family.

The Historic Third Ward is an experience. We’ve developed one of the nation’s foremost mixed-use districts — and we love to tell the tales of how it happened and where its going.

Creativity - Cuisine - Culture. It’s all here.

JIM PLAISTED, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HISTORIC THIRD WARD ASSOCIATION

PHOTO @ YAMAYOGAMKE

QUICK BITES

THE LATEST NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS OF NOTE COMING SOON

After opening The Bridgewater Modern Grill (2011 S. 1st St.) in 2022, Benson’s Restaurant Group is set to open its new venue at 322 N. Broadway St. in Summer 2023. The former Wahlburgers space will become the fourth Historic Third Ward location for the hospitality group, alongside familiar favorites Onesto, Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria and Smoke Shack. With 3,460 square feet of dining space, the new location will offer bar, indoor and outdoor dining, along with the ability to support 60 jobs upon opening. bensonsrestaurantgroup.com

Los Angeles-based fast-casual restaurant sweetgreen will make its mark in Wisconsin by opening its first location in the Third Ward at 310 E. Buffalo St., inside the former Hudson Business Lounge. The restaurant features a plant-heavy menu offering a variety of seasonal grain bowls, salads and sides. sweetgreen.com

Also opening its first Milwaukee location, Grace Coffee Co. will be located at 102 N. Water — nestled between The Starling and Vino Third Ward. The roastery and cafe is expected to offer a similar menu to its Madison-area cafes, serving up awardwinning cold brew, coffee, espresso, brunch, lunch, bakery items and more. gracecoffeewi.com

SPRING OPENINGS

Due to open any day at press time, District Fore, 233 E. Chicago St., and Salty Paws, 121 N. Jefferson, are set to call the Third Ward home sweet home. From the owners of Sweet Diner, District Fore is bringing sports, games and New York-style pizza to the neighborhood. It will feature high-tech TV

walls, golf simulators, interactive dart sections and a playful “American classics” menu and craft beverages. At Salty Paws, you can spoil your fur babies at Milwaukee’s first doggie ice cream shop. You’ll find treats, accessories and more for your VIP (Very Important Pet).

| PHOTO BY CELESTE BRUNNER

THE COPPER TURTLE BREWERY AND TAVERNE, 330 E. MENOMONEE ST | PHOTO BY @THECOPPERTURTLEMKE

NOW OPEN

The Copper Turtle Brewery and Taverne opened at 330 E. Menomonee St. in January in the former Bavette la Boucherie space (now at 217 N. Broadway). Stop by for a brew (including 6 of the brewpub’s own beers on draft), signature cocktail or glass of wine — and to marvel at the chic space, punctuated by signature copper serving tanks. The brewery has an outdoor patio as well as a taproom that accommodates more than 100 guests.

Go Grocer is now open at 415 E. Menomonee St. Offering fresh grab-and-go meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner — as well as fresh produce and staples like bread, eggs and milk — the Milwaukee location is family-run by brothers John and Edgar Rivera. The store emphasizes local products and offers an extensive beer and wine selection. A variety of gluten free and vegan products are also available. Stay up to date by following the store on Instagram at @gogrocerthirdward.

NOTEWORTHY PROJECTS

A cleanup of the Milwaukee River is currently underway. We Energies is partnering with local, state and federal agencies to remediate approximately 45,000 cubic yards of sediment material impacted by the former manufactured gas plant that operated in the Third Ward between the 1850s and 1960. Two areas within a .6 mile stretch of the Milwaukee River — between the confluence of the Menomonee and Milwaukee rivers and south of Trestle Park Bridge — will be remediated using dredging and capping approaches. For more information, visit mkewaterwaypartners.org.

Construction began in 2022 on a new 31-story building at 333 N. Water St. Developed by Houston-based real estate developer Hines, it will be the first multi-family high-rise in the Third Ward and one of the tallest buildings in Wisconsin. Located near the Milwaukee Public Market, the building is expected to create 333 new luxury rental units alongside over 22,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities. In addition, the development will include a new connection to access Milwaukee’s award-winning Riverwalk off St. Paul Avenue.

Further east, a new building with about 260 apartments is another step closer to construction after its developer bought the threeacre project site. Located on the south side of the Italian Community Center property (east of Milwaukee Ballet), Kaeding Development Group is leading development of the high-end, five-story apartment community with amenities including a pool. In addition, the project will expand East Corcoran Street east to connect with Lincoln Memorial Drive.

A NOTE OF THANKS

At April’s Historic Third Association annual meeting, our board president, Jack R. Lemmon, will be stepping down after six years of leading the organization. Jack left the Skylight Music Theatre after 7 years as their executive director in December 2022.

On behalf of the HTWA board of directors and our staff, we want to thank Jack for his leadership, vision and diligence in guiding the HTWA mission since 2017. He has overseen the Strategic Plan process, increases in membership, enhanced engagement with our varied constituencies, growth of our public events, diversification of our revenue streams, the origination of THREE and The Guide publications, and skillfully guided us through the pandemic.

Jack’s impact and work at Skylight Music Theatre and as president of HTWA has left an indelible mark on our community. We wish him well in his future endeavors — and know we will bump into him soon, seeking his favorite lunch haunts here in the Historic Third Ward. - Jim Plaisted

JACK R. LEMMON

SAFETY UPDATE

By Jim Plaisted

ONE OF THE GREAT ATTRIBUTES OF THE HISTORIC THIRD WARD IS THAT IT’S ONE OF THE SAFEST AREAS IN THE CITY OF MILWAUKEE. But concern for public safety is a fact of urban life — and the Historic Third Ward Association, BID #2 and Milwaukee Public Market work closely with our allies at the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) to ensure the Third Ward remains safe.

In January, the MPD issued a “Situational Awareness Bulletin” related to armed robberies and entry to autos occurring in the greater Downtown Milwaukee area, including the Third Ward. They have seen a rising trend in these crimes in downtown entertainment areas, primarily in the evening hours.

MPD asks all to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. They advise parking in well-lit areas, staying alert (not on your cell phone), keeping valuables out of plain view in your vehicles, and to keep firearms properly secured in a lock box if in your automobile.

Created in 2021, our BID #2 Security team patrols the neighborhood and acts as “eyes and ears” on the streets. They are trained to observe and contact MPD immediately if they witness suspicious activity. We urge anyone who witnesses any criminal activity to contact 9-1-1 (if it’s in progress or an emergency) and the non-emergency number (414-933-4444) for anything that isn’t time-sensitive or immediate.

The BID #2 security team is doing a fantastic job; please let them know you appreciate their work keeping our community safe and strong.

DON’T MISS MIAD’S ANNUAL SENIOR EXHIBITION DURING SPRING GALLERY NIGHT MKE. THE EXHIBITION CELEBRATES THE WORKS OF MIAD’S LARGEST GRADUATING CLASS OF EMERGING CREATIVE PROFESSIONALS IN ALL DISCIPLINES.

UPCOMING EVENTS

SPRING 2023

GALLERY NIGHT

APRIL 21-22

Spring Gallery Night MKE will feature 40-plus galleries, museums, pop-up art installations and much more Friday, April 21, and Saturday, April 22. Gallery hop through the Historic Third Ward, Walker’s Point, East Town and other locations in and around Downtown Milwaukee. Plus, don’t miss the official Gallery Night After Party at The Iron Horse Hotel on Friday night. Visit the website for a list of all participating venues, and to plan your night (and day). gallerynightmke.com

HOOPS

MARCH 10-APRIL 2

Local art begets local art as Milwaukee multidisciplinary artist Nicole Acosta’s internationally acclaimed Hoops Portrait Project comes to the stage. milwaukeechambertheatre.org

SADLER GALLERY (ABOVE LEFT) AND TORY FOLLIARD GALLERY ARE TWO OF 45 PARTICIPATING GALLERIES AND SPACES DURING GALLERY NIGHT MKE ON APRIL 21 & 22.

NOISES OFF

MARCH 17-APRIL 2

Skylight presents one of the most hilarious plays ever written – and adds music! This hit, side-splitting backstage farce will have live accompaniment by a singer and band playing songs by the cocktail lounge-inspired, 1950s groove of Combustible Edison. skylightmusictheatre.org

UPCOMING EVENTS | SPRING 2023

THE MOUNTAINTOP

APRIL 21-MAY 7

Katori Hall’s play reimagines the events on the night before Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in Memphis, following the delivery of his memorable “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech. milwaukeechambertheatre.org

EARTH DAY RIVERKEEPER CLEANUP

APRIL 22

Come together as a community to care for the Milwaukee River! Meet at the north end of Lakeshore State Park (near Discovery World) at 9 a.m. to participate. Dress to get dirty and wear closed-toed shoes; gloves will be provided. 9 a.m.-noon.

AYRE IN THE SQUARE

MAY 20, JUNE 17, JULY 22, AUG. 26

Rock out with the Friends of Catalano Square and notable local bands. Become a Friend or read more at catalanosquare.com/ayre-in-the-square.

POLISH FEST

JUNE 9-11

JUNE 1-2

Celebrate our vibrant LGBTQ+ community at the Summerfest Grounds. Live entertainment, food and drink, dancing and so much more. pridefest.com

America’s largest Polish Festival returns to the Milwaukee lakefront. polishfest.org

KAYAK THE LAGOON

JUNE 15

Join Milwaukee Kayak Company at Pebble Beach in Lakeshore State Park for an evening of kayaking from 4 to 7 p.m. Dress to paddle; life jackets and paddles provided. $15 for 30 minutes; $20 for 60 minutes. milwaukeekayak.com

SUMMERFEST

PHOTO BY KEN BROWN

LET’S DO LUNCH

Neighborhood Insiders Reveal their Top Picks for Lunch in the Ward

“Lucky Ginger is my go-to for lunch because the food is delicious, the staff is friendly and fun, and the overall vibe of the restaurant is unique. The menu has so many Asian Fusion options for whatever you’re craving and spice levels for whatever you can handle. It’s perfect for lunch with a group of coworkers or grabbing a bite and a cocktail at the bar with friends on the weekend.”

DANIELLE FUENTES, BOELTER + LINCOLN

“In the summer, Milwaukee Sail Loft. I love watching all the activity on the river and they are located at the entrance to Lake Michigan, so there is always traffic on the river. The Cajun Chicken Chop salad is a favorite dish. In the winter, Riley’s Sandwich Co. & Social House. They have a great atmosphere and being dog friendly makes it a great place for lunch! The fall-off-the-bone Sous Vide Chicken Wings are amazing and make a great warm up in the winter.”

“A favorite lunch spot is hard to narrow down because we have so many great places. Some of my favorites are FreshFin Poké, Pat’s Rib Place and Margarita Paradise — but my very favorite is Press. It’s fast, convenient, and has healthy options (as well as fun guilty pleasures). The owners are always there and remember my likes. My favorite sandwich is the bacon and brie.”

JEFF BRAND, HARLEYS CO.

“St. Paul Fish Market at the Milwaukee Public Market. I love the freshness of the offerings. So hot, fresh and delicious. The walleye is the absolute best.”

LYNNE DIXON SPELLER, EDESSA SCHOOL OF FASHION

“Sweet Diner. I love the atmosphere and modern decor. My favorite dish is the Croque Madame — absolutely amazing!”

& DESIGN

TRACY MILKOWSKI, MILWAUKEE INSTITUTE OF ART

CHRIS CORLEY, CORLEY REAL ESTATE

WORK UP A SWEAT ON MILWAUKEE’S AWARD-WINNING RIVERWALK.

PHOTO BY FRONT ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

WELL BE

By Nan Bialek

This is the year you’ve vowed to live healthier. But well-being goals can be more than eating better, getting more exercise or scheduling an occasional massage.

In fact, we’ve found 23 ways to get inspired, be mindful, bring joy, embrace happiness and feed your soul in 2023 — all right here in the Historic Third Ward.

23 WAYS TO CELEBRATE & EMBRACE WELLNESS IN 2023

INDULGE IN A SPA PACKAGE

Urbaine Oasis Spa Boutique’s 3-Algae Detox Face and Body Wrap uses seawater and sea elements to detox the body. The treatment includes a facial and body massage based on the rhythms of the sea to calm and relieve tension.

PRESERVE A SPECIAL MEMORY

Want to keep your special memories top of mind? Fifth-generation jeweler and designer Amy Shallow-Bern creates custom heirlooms for you at A Trio Jewelry – not just rings, but bracelets and necklaces, too. Or, make your home décor more meaningful by displaying a unique invitation or card that Broadway Paper can design especially for your wedding, special event or party in a frame from SB Framing Gallery.

SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS

Pop into MARN’s Art + Culture Hub Marketplace and find an original work of art that speaks to your soul. Explore the century-old Marshall Building, creative home to more than 30 artists, galleries and artrelated businesses. Or, find a fresh point of view at MIAD’s Senior Exhibition, April 21 to May 6.

LOVE THE SKIN YOU’RE IN

A complimentary consultation at Aesthetics 360° medical spa with one of their aesthetic experts will help you determine which treatments – everything from microneedling and laser treatments to Botox and fillers – will help you feel and look your best. Need a quick pick-me-up? Try a lunch hour mini-peel facial at Face Foundrié.

SHOW YOUR MILWAUKEE PRIDE!

Feel fabulous about showing your L-O-V-E of the 4-1-4? Don a 414-themed baseball cap, tee or hoodie from 414 Milwaukee. Brew City Brand in the Milwaukee Public Market is a treasure trove of Brewtown culture. Smile on when you visit Harleys, where you’ll find the full line of Milwaukee Home apparel and accessories.

GET A RELAXING SHAVE

This one’s for the guys: Look great and feel even better with a luxe shave at Groom for Men. The salon’s grooming pros use an oldschool shaving method featuring hot towels, prep oil with lather, straight razor and after shave. Plus, don’t miss the $10 hot towel upgrade to any haircut.

GROOM FOR MEN | PHOTO @GROOMFORMEN

MOVE YOUR BODY — WITH FRIENDS

Believe in your body and your abilities at The Barre Code. Its signature class combines barre work and isometrics with props and music, all with the energy that only live classes can generate. Or, at [solidcore], with lights down and music up an experienced coach will lead you through a high intensity, low-impact, full-body strength training workout as a group. And if you’re ready to namaste the day, bring a friend to the flexible and supportive Yama Yoga community. The motto is “yoga for every body” — and that means yours!

FOCUS ON YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, struggling with a rough decision or just need to make a change, counseling can help you sort it all out. Consider scheduling a complimentary consultation at Hillary Counseling, a safe space to focus on you.

SPEND TIME WITH YOUR FURRY FRIENDS

Best friends are welcome at Riley’s Social House. Your pupper enjoys your company, you enjoy the craft drafts and wings — and you’ll both love Riley’s doggy-themed events. At dog-friendly 2A Wine Merchants, humans can expect delicious wine and a cozy vibe; pooches go for the treats and lots of love.

SEND WINTER A FOND FAREWELL

Embrace winter’s beauty — and prepare to bid it goodbye — at the alpine-chic “Winter Woods” outdoor experience at Tied House through April 16. Toast the season with a delicious seasonal craft cocktail and revel in the patio-scape of faux fur, twinkling lights and charming woodland creatures. Watch for a new spring theme launching in May.

THE BARRE CODE | PHOTO @BARRECODE_MKE

TIED HOUSE | PHOTO @TIEDHOUSEMKE

MAKE A HEALTHY CHOICE

Opt for Sweet Diner’s Organic Greens and Berries Salad, featuring strawberries and blueberries, loaded with antioxidants. Fill up on belly-warming and collagen-rich bone broth at Bavette la Boucherie. Or, pick up Green Kitchen’s fresh Green Paradise juice and enjoy the nutrient-rich combo of kale, spinach, cucumber, lime and orange.

TAKE A HIKE

The Riverwalk along the Milwaukee River gives you a whole new perspective on the Ward’s historic architecture and bustling shopping, arts and dining scene. Hike a paved trail at Lakeshore State Park, with glorious views of the skyline and Lake Michigan.

GO GREEN

Houseplants elevate the mood of any space. MOD GEN: A Modern General Store has more than 1,000 of them to choose from, including familiar favorites and rare varieties. Look for plants with a florist’s flair as well as bountiful bouquets at Marius Bell Floral in the Milwaukee Public Market. Or, simply enjoy a cup of caffeinated heaved at Likewise Coffee and revel in lush greenery as décor.

HIT YOUR HYDRATION GOALS

Along with drinking those eight glasses of water a day, hydration clinics can help keep you healthy and hydrated all season long. At H2O Health Hydration Oasis, IV therapy offers custom blended cocktails to provide immune support, aid in athletic recovery and even the “Social Survivor” to knock out that hangover. Feeling run down after spring break travel? IVme Wellness + Aesthetics offers a “Jetlag” IV drip that specifically targets posttravel hydration. Or, stop by Elevate & Co. for an energy boost with a vitamin B12 shot.

SWEET DINER | PHOTO @SWEETDINERMKE

LIKEWISE COFFEE | PHOTO @LIKEWISEMKE

ENJOY THE SHOW

Exercise your emotions with the hilarious Noises Off through April 2 at the Skylight Music Theatre. Then, don’t miss Encore, as you experience Milwaukee Ballet up close and personal as they revisit excerpts of classical ballets and contemporary works at the Baumgartner Center for Dance.

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VENTURE OUT ON A DIY ART WALK

Make every day Gallery Night by designing your own art walk. Start with longtime favorite Tory Folliard Gallery, then browse the lively abstracts at BeingNau. Feel at home in the bright and airy ambience of Lily Pad West. Visit MARN’s local artist gallery and the beehive of Marshall Building artists. Take in exciting student work at the MIAD galleries. No matter how you craft it, you’re sure to be inspired.

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE

Daniel Jacobs and Dan Van Rite, 2023 James Beard Foundation Best Chef Midwest semifinalists, bring the spice to American-Chinese cuisine at DanDan. Try the Happy Chicken for a bit of a kick. Or, order the Ginger Heat Shrimp at Thai-namite — a zesty choice for lunch or dinner. Rather spice it up at home? Exact Packs from The Spice House are premeasured spice blends created for busy or novice cooks. The packs come with recipes so you can cook up dishes like Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup and Chili-Lime Shrimp, in the comfort of your own home.

MAKE MEATLESS MONDAY A MAINSTAY

Vegan fare is sweet and savory at On the Bus. Try the Bacun Ranch Burger made with a Beyond patty. FreshFin Poké offers vegan dishes like its Power Ginger Bowl, or choose your ingredients and create your own plantbased bowl.

STYLE YOURSELF, SUSTAINABLY

Designer styles should be lived in, not tossed in landfills. Shop for carefully curated vintage looks at Lela Boutique. High-end fashions at thrift store prices move fast at Retique; pick up a 99-cent reusable canvas bag to tote home your finds.

LILY PAD GALLERY | PHOTO @LILYPADGALLERYWEST

LELA BOUTIQUE | PHOTO @LELABOUTIQUE

LISTEN TO FRANKIE AND R-E-L-A-X

Take a self-care break at Hundred Grasses. Krista McCain, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, provides holistic facial acupuncture and whole-body treatments to help restore your glow. At Blue Water Wellness, wind down with hot stone massage therapy, Swedish massage or soothing aromatherapy.

MAKE AN ENTRANCE GET IN THE GAME

Breeze into the party with stunning dimensional hair color by Sweetgrass Salon; a body-boosting blowout from Drybar; and a luxurious makeup application from Arch Apothecary. After all, confidence and wellness go hand in hand!

Work on your pickleball game at Riverwalk Commons, across from Milwaukee Public Market. Bring your own gear or borrow it from the Market’s office. Bingo Night starts at 6 p.m. Wednesdays at Vino Third Ward, with a chance to win wine and other prizes. Quizmaster Trivia kicks off at 8 p.m. Mondays at Camp Bar. Categories include pop culture, sports and “useless knowledge.”

FIND YOUR FIT FASHION

Performance Running Outfitters uses a biomechanical gait analysis and personal sizing measurements to make sure your new running or walking shoes fit perfectly. Need help in choosing athletic and yoga wear? Book a personal shopping appointment at Lululemon for expert assistance.

Want to learn more about any of the businesses mentioned in this story? Visit historicthirdward.org!

RIVERWALK COMMONS PHOTO @MILWAUKEEPUBLICMARKET

DRYBAR | PHOTO @DRYBARSHOPSMILWAUKEE

A STITCH IN TIME

HOW THE HISTORIC DYE HOUSE AND PHOENIX BUILDINGS ARE KNITTED INTO THE FABRIC OF THE THIRD WARD

By Bobby Tanzilo of OnMilwaukee.com

Photography By Eric Halverson

A century after its completion, the Dye House remains the tallest building in the Third Ward.

And even when it loses that title to a new 31-story riverfront apartment tower under construction on St. Paul Avenue, its history — and that of the related Phoenix Building — will still loom large in the Ward.

“I think Halling & Cayo was the first tenant,” recalls Engberg Anderson partner Bill Robison, a current tenant of the building. “And they get some massive award for bravery.

“THEY WERE PIONEERS. TO MOVE INTO A BUILDING WITH NO STREET PRESENCE, NO LOBBY, NO PASSENGER ELEVATORS ... THEY HAD TO USE THE STAIRS OR THE FREIGHT ELEVATOR. IT WAS A ROUGH ARRIVAL EXPERIENCE FOR THEIR CLIENTS.”

Now those clients might barely recognize it as the same place. There are three elevators, basement parking, a newly renovated lobby and a penthouse residence on top.

THE LOBBY OF THE DYE HOUSE, WHERE A RICH HISTORY MEETS MODERN DESIGN.

A COMPLEX HISTORY

The Dye House and Phoenix buildings, which were once connected by tunnel, are among the survivors of a complex the Phoenix Knitting Company built in the neighborhood. Buildings 1 and 3 of the complex, at 180 N. Broadway and 207 N. Milwaukee, also survive.

Phoenix — which made numerous products, including women’s and men’s hosiery, gloves and mittens — was founded in 1880, taking on its mythical avian name in 1897. By the early 1890s, the company had about 150 employees working 100 knitting machines.

In 1917, the seven-story Phoenix Building (then Plant No. 4, 219 N. Milwaukee St.) — designed by architect Otto Uehling — opened with a basement dye facility, first-floor printing and shipping facilities, a second-floor packing facility and five floors of knitting machines above.

Closing out a six-year building boom to meet growing demand, the eight-story Dye House (then Plant No. 6, 320 E. Buffalo St.) — designed by architectural/engineering firm Lockwood & Greene — augmented Phoenix’s space. In fact, it accommodated its growth into one of the largest silk hosiery factories in the country. It employed hundreds of Milwaukeeans, many of them women.

After resisting pressure to cut costs by moving south, the company did exactly that in 1954. However, it maintained about 500 workers at its Milwaukee office, warehousing and finishing operations. In 1959 the company was acquired, and its Brew City presence was nothing but a memory. The buildings were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

ROLLING WITH THE CHANGES

Over the years, the Phoenix Building was occupied by offices, small manufacturing firms, warehousing and even retail shops like the Piano Gallery. Current tenants include Penworthy publishing company, Third Ward Dental and law firms Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs and Mastantuono Coffee & Thomas SC, among others.

By the mid-1970s, the Dye House was purchased by Jack Gardner as a new home for his ArtCraft company, which moved from Pittsburgh Avenue.

“We made all the seats for Greyhound,” recalls Gardner’s son, Mike. “Through the years, we got into more and more mass transit. We were, I think, the sole supplier of seating for Amtrak. We also did sewing for almost all the airlines. They were all manufactured in the Third Ward and we would ship out full assemblies. We did the frame, the shell, the upholstery, all in that building.”

Gardner recalls practically growing up in the building, working at the company, selling parking in the lot during Summerfest. His father sold the company in 1994, though it continued to operate there for a few more years.

Gardner bought the building from his dad and worked on renovating and upgrading it. He brought in tenants like Halling & Cayo, The Art Institute and MODA3 apparel and footwear.

Though he sold the building to Chicago-based Singerman Real Estate in 2018, a number of the tenants Gardner brought in still occupy the building. One such tenant, Engberg Anderson Architects, did design work on the structure’s renovations, adding new electrical, HVAC and more.

“What’s really unique about this building is that almost every historic building in the Third Ward is a timber frame building,” says Robison, “and we’ve got these massive concrete mushroom columns.”

That provides a whopping live load of 180 pounds per square foot on the top floor and 150 on the floors below. “That’s enough to make this a public library, where (book) stacks are that heavy,” marvels Robison.

ENGBERG ANDERSON’S OFFICE IS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF HOW TO REPURPOSE MANUFACTURING SPACE. “WHEN WE MOVED IN HERE, WE REALLY WANTED TO EXPRESS THAT (PAST),” SAYS ROBISON. “WE SANDBLASTED ALL THE OLD PAINT OFF THE COLUMNS AND RAISED THE FLOORS SO WE COULD USE THE CLERESTORY WINDOWS. WE WANTED MORE LIGHT AND LOWER SILLS AND RAN THE MECHANICALS UNDERNEATH.”

Robison says the wide-open floor plate also provided a boost to his staff, which had previously been spread out in a less collaboration-friendly arrangement.

“We were all just spread out on two floors, kind of wrapped around a central atrium,” he recalls. “When we moved here, I felt like I met some of the staff that I didn’t really know and started to know what everybody was working on again, because we have one big space.

“It also changed everything for our staff. It gave them access to all the businesses in the Third Ward. And that was a big deal.”

HANDS-ON ART

A pair of hands that have known hard work rests atop a lap covered in a work apron.

This is the image — a likeness of Bavette la Boucherie owner and James Beard Awardnominated butcher and chef Karen Bell ... or a portion of her — depicted in a fivestory-tall mural painted on the north wall of the Dye House, where women worked dyeing hosiery for Phoenix Hosiery Co.

Painted in 2019 by German artist Case Maclaim after building owners Singerman Real Estate hired The Wallpapered City’s Stacy Williams-Ng to spearhead a mural initiative. “The Unsung Hero,” was intended, the artist said, “To pay tribute to Milwaukee’s female working class heroes from the past, and to celebrate the present ones.”

Artist Maclaim saw it as a means for embracing the contributions of all women, rather than a single, specific one.

“It’s a celebration of women’s work,” Williams-Ng said, “past and present.”

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

By Jordan Dechambre | Photography By Eric Halverson

Milwaukee Business Improvement District #2 Chair Ron San Felippo has helped write more than a few chapters of the Historic Third Ward’s story.

In fact, he practically wrote the book.

Here, this longtime neighborhood advocate, visionary and passionate civic leader shares his thoughts on the Ward’s past, present — and very bright future.

Q. I understand your family has a long history in the Third Ward. Tell me about it.

A. My dad was born in the Third Ward in 1910. Growing up we’d hear all the stories of the old “Sicilian Ward.” My grandmother lived here for 50 years and never learned English. Everything she needed was in the neighborhood.

My grandfather worked for the city, and my dad was a “fortunate accident.” All of his brothers were born in Sicily. My grandfather was able to bring everybody over. I don’t think they were planning on having more kids, but it was good for me that they did.

Q. You’ve served on dozens of boards and held numerous positions in government, hospitality, education and more since 1967, including as president of the Milwaukee School Board, the Fire and Police Commission and now as the VP of the Harbor Commission. What ignited that early — and lifelong — love of public service?

A. My dad worked in the breweries for 35 years and was very active in the union. My parents were a little older, and had gone through the Depression and the war. They were very solid supporters of FDR. Growing up hearing about that, I became very interested in politics.

I pretty much had the same attitude then that I do now: I have no idea what I want to be when I grow up. I’ve been in and out of government over the years, and that has always been fascinating for me.

Q. How did you get involved with Milwaukee Business Improvement District (BID) #2 and the Historic Third Ward Association (HTWA)?

A. Joan Zepecki was the executive director of the HTWA in 1992 and asked me to get involved in the strategic planning for the neighborhood. And I’ve never been able to get away from it … but it’s fun. When I first got involved, there were maybe 30 people living in the Ward. We’ve come a long way. It’s taken a lot of work by a lot of people over a long time, along with great support from city government.

Q. What is the importance of a BID to the community?

A. First, we are the only Milwaukee BID with operating businesses (our Third Ward parking ramps). We’ve kept the same tax revenue for 13 years. We generate five-sixths of our earned revenue, primarily from those two parking ramps. No other BID is doing that.

We also have the luxury of being able to have an independent association — the HTWA — and a BID. Many BIDs, except for Milwaukee Downtown BID #21, don’t have the resources we have to provide the services the people of the Third Ward receive. And I think that’s part of the reason the Ward has flourished.

Everything we were hoping to be able to do we have been very successful in pulling off. The key is continuing to maintain it — and not sitting on our butts thinking we can’t make it better.

Q. Tell me about the relationship between the BID and the HTWA.

A. The Association is the communications hub. In the early days, the HTWA didn’t pay attention to the residents — because there weren’t any! Today, residents are a major component of the HTWA’s activities. The BID has been doing the work physically — streetscaping and working with the city to develop more parkland, like Trestle Park and Erie Plaza. Now we are developing a whole block on the Milwaukee River across from the Milwaukee Public Market. The pickleball courts are wildly successful beyond our expectations, and we are currently reworking the southern half of that block. Our Riverwalk is key; we are continuing to add to that with the new Fromm dog park across the river. We will have the first block of Riverwalk on the west side.

It all goes back to the BID being the more operational, tangible element. That gives the HTWA the ability to be the communications hub, the resource, the “mini City Hall.” The relationship makes a ton of sense.

Q. To what do you attribute the success of the Milwaukee Public Market (which the BID owns and operates)?

A. When the BID took over running it, we changed the concept from “you should buy what we want to sell you” to “we will sell you what you want to buy.” We built a staff, rethought the layout and interior, and changed up a few of the vendors. We made it the gathering place it was intended to be for the city. Did we know it would become the third-highest attendance venue in Southeast Wisconsin with over 2 million visitors last year? No.

It was reasonably scary the first year if we could pull it off — but the basic concept was common sense, sense of humor and organized chaos. And that has been the slogan there for years. We want it clean; we don’t want it orderly. We want to change it up on a regular basis, so people feel like they’ll find something new. We’ve been able to pull off some fun things.

Q. What’s your greatest accomplishment, so far?

A. I feel very lucky I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in so many different things. And I feel really good about what has happened here in the Ward. We’ve been able to create a work-live-play-shop neighborhood, which is more than a slogan.

In addition, an advantage we have with the BID is if something comes up that’s unplanned — because we have been responsible with our money — we are able to respond to variables. Security is the biggest example of that. Everyone knows the challenges have gotten greater in the city of Milwaukee. This is a very, very safe neighborhood. But perception is critical for us in addition to reality; people have to feel safe in addition to being safe.

We’ve been able to respond to that in the last 18 months with a variety of techniques, adding 24-7 vehicles around the neighborhood. It’s a good example of being nimble and not getting stuck in the “we’ve always done it that way” mentality.

Q. Where do you see the Ward in 10 years?

A. The whole eastern part of the Ward has a lot of potential development. There is still a lot of land connected to the Italian Community Center (ICC), and the Gagliano companies have two full blocks.

And we currently have a lot of continued development. The portion of the ICC land that was recently sold will have 233 apartments; we have a 31-story tower going up on the corner of St. Paul and Water. And of course there’s the three-story, 28,000-square-foot Foxtown Landing — a taproom, distillery and restaurant planned for the land adjacent to the dog park. We are not done by any sense; the key is keeping up what we are doing.

FAST FUN FACTS

Best Vacation

West Palm Beach, Fla., in the winter. For somebody who was born in Milwaukee, I have disliked winter for as long as I can remember. In the summer, Lake Beulah.

Must-See Movie

The 1990s TV movie “Dillinger” because part of it was filmed in the Third Ward.

Favorite Music

Celine Dion. I’m still waiting for Benny Goodman to come back.

Wine in Your Glass

Pinot Noir. My wife of 29 years, Peg, is a wine writer. She understands it and I drink it.

My Paradise

A perfect night would be on a pontoon boat on the Milwaukee River. Drinking wine, looking at the sights and marveling that I’m old enough to remember when you could almost walk on that water. So much has been done to clean it up.

REMARKABLE ROOMS

We asked five people who live or work in the Third Ward to share their favorite spaces to spend their time at home or in the office. Here’s what they had to say about their most coveted and inspiring rooms.

KATIE

The new Tre Rivali Gallery is just off the Lobby. It’s a recent addition, and a comfortable, warm and welcoming spot at the front of Tre Rivali. It’s a special spot for morning coffee or an evening cocktail.

It is a window to the Historic Third Ward world. I love to watch our neighbors and guests moving about through their day. Regardless of the weather, Wisconsinites embrace the day!

This spot is the perfect addition to the space, as we just launched a new Chef’s Counter experience immediately adjacent to the Gallery. It’s a “chef’s table” series, and guests start with an aperitif in the Gallery and then enjoy a coursed dinner at the counter. It’s quite an experience!

Narratives as told to Jordan Dechambre Photography by Eric Halverson

NEUFELD, GENERAL MANAGER, KIMPTON JOURNEYMAN HOTEL

KELLY BRAINERD, THIRD WARD RESIDENT & FOUNDER OF KMB DESIGN | CONSULTING

I live and work in a one-bedroom condo in the Marine Terminal Lofts. I love open-concept living. There are no doors in my bedroom —and the kitchen and living room are open to each other, with a backdrop of large windows and a view of the city. So, my favorite condo space is all of it!

My house reflects me. It is a collection of my lifetime of experiences, adventures and memories. I can tell you a story about just about everything in my home. I am surrounded by the things I love — including my beautiful pup, Etta James.

The pieces of art hanging on the walls are all my favorites. I started with my first investment piece when I worked at Katie Gingrass Gallery when I was in college, and it still hangs front and center in my living room. I have very tall ceilings, so I staggered a few shelves on the focal wall to showcase the things I love ... photographs, plants, books, cards, candles, etc. I always say, “Surround yourself with your favorite things.”

I have been renovating the condo slowly over the last few years. When Bavette moved to its new space, I was inspired by the tile they used on the front of the kitchen opening. Thanks to Karen for sharing the shade of tile she used; so beautiful! Remember... inspiration is everywhere.

Next up is a remodel of the bathroom. I am so excited to be adding a large soaking tub!

KELLY BRAINERD

SAM LEE, MILWAUKEE SERVICES LEAD, FORMLABS

We occupy the fourth and fifth floors of the Mercantile building on East Buffalo Street. One of my favorite spaces is a small conference room we have on the fifth floor, with three low chairs and a coffee table. I love this room because it has tons of natural light and gives a more casual, intimate setting for work conversations. It’s tucked away from our kitchen, so it is a little bit of a quiet getaway from lunch or events that we host.

I often sit on the floor, and it almost reminds me of walking by a pre-school when you see the kids napping. If I have something I really need to focus on, getting away from my desk and being in a quiet and bright place allows me to do that.

Our office is filled with 3D printers and amazing 3D printed parts; our team here is constantly making interesting things. It’s easy to get distracted or pulled away to see what people are working on and this quiet place upstairs is a nice way to step away for an hour or so.

MESTER, DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

& CHAIR OF DEI COUNCIL, PHYSICIANS REALTY TRUST

My favorite space in our office is a cozy nook on the seventh floor tucked outside our executive offices. This unique spot has comfortable leather overstuffed furniture and a stunning floor-toceiling stone fireplace. Since it’s on the top floor of our headquarters building, it has extra tall, lofted ceilings. The cream city brick and natural timber make it very inviting, too, and we were proud to receive recognition twice from the Milwaukee Business Journal as one of Milwaukee’s Coolest Offices because of spaces like this one.

Smaller team meetings in this space, away from the typical conference room setup, encourage less formal communication and collaboration. My team’s morning marketing and communications updates happen here, and it’s a great place to start our days with our coffees and a cheerful fire. Our senior leaders love it when our team takes advantage of this space to gather, and I love that we’ve invested in creating spots like this one for our team to feel at home. One unique tidbit: On the wall behind the seating area is a framed blue jacket. It’s the jacket worn by Physicians Realty Trust’s original trader on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange from our initial public offering as a company in 2013 until 2018. Our trader generously shared this piece of memorabilia with us, and it’s a special memento of our past as we approach ten years in business on July 19, 2023.

LEANN

DAVE AND LEANNE HOCK, THIRD WARD RESIDENTS

We love the great room in our condo, which is the living and dining room area. It is open and airy, with lots of windows looking out over our beautiful river; the Hoan Bridge; and the city to the east, south and west. We love the wide plank wood floors and the slightly industrial feel of the building and the room.

It is comfortable and cozy, with new and old furniture and treasures we’ve collected over our 30-plus years of marriage. It is the place we spend time each morning with the sun, and each evening with the lights of the city. It changes moods as the day progresses and the views and the light changes.

The river and Riverwalk are absolutely vibrant with life and energy. From spring through fall, the music and laughter we hear from the people enjoying their friends and family on the river is the constant background music in our great room.

Another quirky but fun thing is that Leanne loves to look out to the south to tell time from the Allen Bradley clock … it’s just purely Milwaukee!

THE SCENE

There’s always something happening in the Historic Third Ward. The best way to stay in the know? Become a Historic Third Ward Association (HTWA) member!

From exclusive member perks to members-only events and key communication that keeps you up to date on new business openings, neighborhood news and so much more, membership for residents and businesses is your inside access. Visit htwa.wildapricot.org/join-us to enjoy the benefits of membership today!

2. Gather: A Long-Table Dinner welcomed 100 guests to a one-night-only affair on a closed-down Broadway and featured cuisine, wine and cocktails from several local businesses. The next Gather event will be held in August, with an exclusive pre-sale of HTWA members.

3. Gallery Night MKE continues to unite the city through art in January, April, July and October. Learn more at gallerynightmke.com.

4. Christmas in the Ward drew a crowd of thousands to the Historic Third Ward on Dec. 2. An oldfashioned tree lighting, visits with Santa and his reindeer, fireworks, live music, food trucks, hot cocoa, s’mores and more make it a not-to-bemissed annual holiday event.

1. HTWA volunteers are all smiles at the Third Ward Art Festival on Labor Day weekend, which welcomes thousands to the neighborhood for a two-day art festival.

5. The World’s Largest Coffee Break — in conjunction with Milwaukee Downtown BID #21 — attracts hundreds of people to Catalano Square for coffee and doughnuts every August during Downtown Employee Appreciation Week.

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