Walker's Point in Milwaukee in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
The Cream City
Milwaukee is known as “The Cream City” not because of dairies or breweries, but because of its historic pale yellow brick buildings constructed throughout the 19th century. These buildings are a distinctive “cream” color because they are made from clay with more calcium and magnesium than clay used to make common red brick. The Menominee River valley to the north was a primary source of the yellow clay in “cream city” brick. These bricks were highly sought by builders to adorn facades of 19th century buildings including those outside Milwaukee.
To the south is a large concentration of 19th century “Cream City” brick buildings. They are located in Walker’s Point Historic District, which is one of the three original settlements that later became the city of Milwaukee. Many of these historic buildings have been restored and are in use today. Take time to see the buildings that gave Milwaukee its nickname “The Cream City.”
Erected 2002 by Wisconsin Historical Society. (Marker Number 476.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. In addition, it is included in the Wisconsin Historical Society series list.
Location. Marker has been reported missing. It was located near 43° 1.61′ N, 87° 55.191′ W. Marker was in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in Milwaukee County. It was in Walker's Point. The marker has been relocated inside the foyer of the building at 700 West Virginia. Touch for map. Marker was at or near this postal address: 700 West Virginia Street, Milwaukee WI 53204, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location. Floating Freight on Liquid Highways (approx. 0.2 miles away); Holy Trinity - Our Lady of Guadalupe Church (approx. ¼ mile away); Saint Stephen Lutheran Church (approx. 0.6 miles away); Milwaukee Fire Department Engine House #15 (approx. 0.6 miles away); Sinking of the Lady Elgin (approx. 0.6 miles away); Bradley & Metcalf Shoe Co. (approx. 0.6 miles away); Pabst Brewing Company Saloon & Boarding House (approx. 0.6 miles away); Young Saddlery Company Addition (approx. 0.7 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Milwaukee.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 17, 2023. It was originally submitted on July 7, 2010, by Paul Fehrenbach of Germantown, Wisconsin. This page has been viewed 1,218 times since then and 33 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 7, 2010, by Paul Fehrenbach of Germantown, Wisconsin. 3. submitted on June 16, 2023, by Jim Schaettle of Madison, Wisconsin. 4. submitted on July 7, 2010, by Paul Fehrenbach of Germantown, Wisconsin. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. Information on original location of marker prior to being moved inside. • Can you help?