Welcome to Milwaukee – Site of Cultured Collaborations for MLA ’26!
Submitted by: Barbara Ruggeri
It has been 71 years since MLA last met in Milwaukee, and while much has changed, the city still retains its charm and distinctive spirit of Gemütlichkeit (gə-ˈmᵫt-liḵ-ˌkīt)—a German word that describes a warm, friendly atmosphere where relaxation and enjoyment are encouraged. Milwaukee is a wonderful place to collaborate with colleagues, whether over a refreshing beverage with scenic views from the upper floors of the Baird Center or while soaking in the vibrant energy of its bars and restaurants in the Third Ward, Deer District, or Brady Street.
The city’s beautiful Lake Michigan setting captivates residents and visitors alike. On stormy days, you can admire the lake through the striking windows of the Milwaukee Art Museum; on bright spring days, stroll along Veterans Park and watch sailboats drift across the water. The lake’s immense size even influences the weather—making it, both literally and figuratively, “cooler near the lake.”
A Brief History
Native Americans have gathered along the shores of Lake Michigan for thousands of years, long before white Europeans arrived to trade furs in the late 1700s. In the nineteenth century, waves of European immigrants—especially Germans, Poles, and Irish—transformed Milwaukee into a bustling industrial hub and shipping port. The city soon became known for its thriving breweries, earning the nickname “Brew City.”
Labor and progressive movements took hold in the late 1800s, and in 1910 Emil Seidel was elected mayor, becoming the first Socialist mayor in the United States. Pragmatic Socialists governed Milwaukee for much of the next fifty years. During the Great Migration, Black Americans moved to the city to work in its many factories, which earned Milwaukee the title “Machine Shop of the World.” Sadly, the city later became increasingly hostile toward Black residents, with strict redlining practices creating poor living conditions—policies that were not dismantled until the late 1960s. While Milwaukee remains segregated in many neighborhoods, increased investment in Black-owned businesses and rising political power continue to make the city more accessible and welcoming for all. New waves of immigrants from Asia, Latin America and Africa during late 1900s and through the 2000’s arrived and now call Milwaukee home.
Over the decades, Milwaukee has evolved while embracing its rich heritage and vibrant arts scene. Today, it is a city that blends historic charm with modern innovation and warmly welcomes visitors from around the world.
We look forward to seeing you in Milwaukee this May. To help you plan your trip, we encourage you to explore the Visit Milwaukee website—your go-to guide for local attractions, events, dining, and more. From interactive maps to curated itineraries, Visit Milwaukee will help you make the most of your stay.
For more information:
City of Milwaukee – Encyclopedia of Milwaukee
A Brief History of Milwaukee | Wisconsin Historical Society