Bay View
Travel back in time and learn more about Wisconsin’s first company town.
Today, Bay View is one of Milwaukee’s neighborhoods but it was originally established in 1867 for workers at the Milwaukee Iron Company. The tour will explore houses built for laborers and managers and discuss the development of the mill and town before it incorporated into Milwaukee in 1887. Beyond residential streets, stops include important businesses, community spaces including the Beulah Brinton House (1871), houses of worship, and landmarks like the Pryor Avenue Iron Well (1882). The tour will also share immigrant stories from Welsh, English and later Italian families who established deep roots in Bay View.
After the tour, check out authentic cocktail bar, At Random, or pop into Groppi’s Market for authentic Italian deli delights.
Thoughts from other tour attendees
"It was a beautiful day and we learned about historical places in Bay View. The guide was knowledgeable and shared interesting information about each place we visited." - Tour Attendee, May 31, 2025
"Lindsay proved to be an engaging guide. Answered questions she could and noted when she was not sure. Excellent HMI tour guide. Would take another of her tours." - Attendee, October 25, 2025
Starting Location
Meet your guide at Historical Marker 275, in the park at the corner of S. Superior St. & E. Russell Ave.
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