Historic Third Ward

Augmented History Walking Tour

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Historic Third Ward

Augmented History Walking Tour | Augmented History is a groundbreaking augmented reality project that breathes new life into Milwaukee’s Third Ward by restoring the lost art of historic billboards. It offers a unique blend of history and technology, allowing people to witness Milwaukee’s storied past through the lens of the present on their smartphones.

Outdoor Paintings 2024

Outdoor Paintings 2024

The Historic Third Ward Association — in conjunction with MIAD — unveiled four new large-scale outdoor paintings in the Third Ward in fall 2024.

View the new works on the exterior walls of the following buildings: Cafe Benelux (326 N. Broadway), MIAD (273 E. Erie St.), Broadway Theatre Center (158 N. Broadway) and Ascension Third Ward (174 N. Broadway).

The 2024 outdoor paintings include:

John Kowalczyk’s “Foxes and Friends”
Broadway Theatre Center, 158 N. Broadway
Sponsored by 333 Water
Artist Statement: “Foxes and Friends features some of the beautiful wildlife you might find along the lakefront in Milwaukee. Foxes are extremely adaptable and can thrive in various environments inspiring us to embrace change with grace and playfulness. Monarch butterflies are symbols of rebirth and transformation. It is delightful to encounter both in our urban environment. I believe in the power of art to connect, build community and spread joy.”

Caroline Ferrero’s  “Flying Colors”
Ascension Third Ward, 174 N. Broadway
Sponsored by Tim and Sue Frautschi
Artist Statement: “I appreciate the unique details of the birds that find residence in Wisconsin at various times of the year. Seeing two or more species together is always a special event, because they bring beauty along with their distinctiveness. My mural brings together the Robin, Northern Cardinal, American Goldfinch, Evening Grosbeak and Baltimore Oriole to represent the diverse people who fly to and from Milwaukee. The hands represent the people of Milwaukee reaching toward and welcoming these visitors. That is the beauty of Milwaukee — a mix of people that come and go. However, it is the culture and community, bound by different colored swirls, that influence and inspire us to learn more about each other.”

Erin Eastham’s “Birds of Wisconsin and the Great Lakes”
Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, 273 E. Erie St.
Sponsored by Brian and Laura (Armstrong) Montgomery
Artist Statement: “I have always enjoyed seeing animals and incorporating them in the pieces I make. Since moving to Milwaukee I was surprised by how many bird species and waterfowl visit Wisconsin for the waterways and the lakes. We see seagulls and other birds almost every day in the city, and I wanted to showcase the beauty of these animals that I feel is often overlooked.”

Rachel McNeilly’s “Milwaukee Strong!”
Café Benelux, 326 N. Broadway
Sponsored by The Krei Family (Ken, Andrew and Margaret)
Artist Statement: In April 1945, a lone duck nest was found under the Wisconsin Avenue Bridge, nine eggs nestled within. Despair, exhaustion and uncertainty fogged Milwaukee as WWII neared its end. However, this little nest, alongside the duck who built it — lovingly named Gertie — had shone a new light of hope into the city. The nest was carefully watched over by Boy Scouts and a Wisconsin Humane Society Officer, and eventually six of the nine eggs hatched, each duckling receiving their own name. Gertie and her family became a Milwaukee sensation, visited by over 2 million fans. In this painting, Gertie is recreating the iconic Rosie the Riveter pose to symbolize her significance in reigniting the hope and strength to the Milwaukee community during the final moments of WWII.”