The Milwaukee County Historical is the largest of a network of local historical societies in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin. It was founded in 1935[1] and is located in downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin in a former bank building that was deeded to the county in the 1960s. The Milwaukee County Historical Society (MCHS) was formed to preserve, collect, recognize, and make available materials related to Milwaukee County history.
MCHS is home to the Harry H. Anderson Research Library and the Museum. The Research Library collects and preserves manuscripts, records, photographs, and family history information. Many patrons visit for its genealogical and historical materials. The Museum preserves three-dimensional artifacts related to Milwaukee County history including paintings, ribbons, uniforms, flags, furniture, china for a collection that is over 20,000 items. In addition, the MCHS owns three historic house museums and one historic site, the Lowell Damon House in Wauwatosa, WI, the Kilbourntown House in Estabrook Park, WI, and the Jeremiah Curtin House and Trimborn Farm in Greendale, WI.
MCHS hosts a number of events throughout the year, including educational programs, fundraisers, and a Civil War reenactment and an arts and crafts fair at Trimborn Farm. MCHS recently celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2010 with a series of events and online exhibits.
The building underwent renovation to accommodate the film, Public Enemies, starring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale.
The building is undergoing more renovation. It has recently had the ceilings and floors restored on the main and upper levels. It currently is undergoing restoration on the lower level. It is open to the public Monday through Saturday.