About the Historic Third Ward

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The Historic Third Ward (HTW) is located adjacent to downtown Milwaukee and is bound by I-794 East to the north, the Milwaukee River to the west and south and by Lake Michigan to the east. It is easily accessible from the freeway system, public transportation, the downtown business district and all downtown hotels.

The Historic Third Ward neighborhood is significant for several reasons. Not only is it on the National Register of Historic Places as Milwaukee's oldest center of commerce and warehousing, it was also the site of Milwaukee's most devastating fire and its most remarkable rebuilding efforts.

In 1892 "The Great Third Ward Fire" devastated sixteen square blocks of Milwaukee's vital, riverfront commerce area. The dollar value of property damage was estimated at $5 million, which is the equivalent of $60 million by today's standards. Reconstruction began almost immediately and within 30 years, the district was rebuilt into the bustling and vital commerce district it had once been. Designed by local well known architects, the neighborhood's buildings have a visual continuity that creates a unique urban expression.

Today the Historic Third Ward is home to over 400 businesses and maintains an unparalleled position within the retail and professional service community as Milwaukee's showcase mixed-use district. The Third Ward continues to move toward a sophisticated contemporary emphasis, with an influx of residential loft living spaces with units currently counting over 200 and will more than double in the next couple of years, as well as the MIAD dormitory, home to over 150 students. Our neighborhood's renaissance is anchored by many extraordinary shops, restaurants, art galleries, theatre groups, dance companies, photographers, advertising agencies, and graphic artists.

In addition to representing the latest trend in Milwaukee's economic development efforts toward professional and white-collar business, the HTW also maintains its heritage in the retention of several businesses with great longevity. Most prominent in that category are the Commission Row establishments, which have provided Milwaukee with the bulk of its fruit and vegetable produce since the late 1800's.

The Historic Third Ward has become a hub for artistic activity and exhibition within Milwaukee and is currently home to 10 galleries, the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD), the new Off-Broadway Theatre, and the Broadway Theatre Center that houses the world-renowned Skylight Opera Theatre, Theatre X and Milwaukee Chamber Theatre. The centerpiece of this complex is a 385-seat 17th Century baroque style theatre.

The Third Ward also includes the Henry W. Maier Festival Park, better known as the Summerfest grounds. Summerfest and many ethnic festivals provide a variety of attractions and entertainment throughout the summer season. Festa Italiana, held in July, is one of the most popular ethnic festivals held at the Summerfest grounds and at the Italian Community Center, which is located one block from the grounds.

The HTW provides an exceptional climate in which to house a business and receives strong civic and business support. The Historic Third Ward Association, established in 1976, works with neighborhood residents, businesses, merchants, real estate developers and brokers, community organizations, and civic leaders to foster, promote and encourage business retention, expansion and recruitment in the local area. The HTW owns two $5.5 million parking structures which hold approximately 1,000 parking stalls and 6,700 square feet of retail space.

We invite you to discover the urban romance of the Historic Third Ward. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call the Historic Third Ward Association's office at (414) 273-1173.

• More information about the Historic Third Ward
• Historic Third Ward Board of Directors