I had some fun bring in summer by doing a walking tour of Historical Walker's Point last night. It wasn't officially summer until after midnight, but it was a beautiful night for a walk and a bite to eat with friends in this charming little neighborhood.
Walkers Point is one of the original three neighborhoods that made Milwaukee what it is today. In the area south of the main rivers and near the lake, it was home to plenty of industry and immigration. There are many homes from the original neighborhood still in place and many have been restored. It is interesting to note that the largely Hispanic population in the neighborhood is not as recent as one might think. Our tour guide told of the history of the tanneries in the neighborhood recruiting labor from the South in Texas in the early part of the 19th century which brought the first Spanish speaking families to this neighborhood.
The Polish Moon of the Allen-Bradley four-faced clock is probably the most recognizable landmark from the freeway that cuts the neighborhood in two. Several steeples also poke up through the roof tops of the neighborhood still closely linked to these spiritual centers. The ethnic population has evolved over time, but it hasn't changed the look of Walker's Point residential areas. I enjoyed the gardens that were established and well cared for by the faithful residents. The food is pretty good, too.
Keep an eye on Historic Milwaukee's summer schedule for walking tours and the Doors Open for 2013. Historic Milwaukee has lots of upcoming events.
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