What is the significance of the Milwaukee Soldiers Home?

The Milwaukee Soldiers Home is a National Historic Landmark District that represents one of the earliest federal commitments to long-term veteran care. It features significant architecture by Edward Townsend Mix and Henry C. Koch.

Can visitors tour the historic buildings?

Yes, self-guided walking tours are available through a free smartphone app, and guided tours are offered by the Milwaukee Preservation Alliance covering the history, architecture, and preservation stories.

What architectural styles are represented at the site?

The campus features Victorian Gothic (Old Main by Edward Townsend Mix), along with Italianate, Queen Anne, Shingle Style, and Colonial Revival buildings designed primarily by Henry C. Koch.

Brief History of the Milwaukee Soldiers Home

The Milwaukee Soldiers Home represents one of America's most significant commitments to veteran care, spanning over 150 years of dedicated service to those who served our nation.

Civil War Origins (1865-1867)

Founded in the aftermath of the Civil War, the Northwestern Branch of the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers was established in Milwaukee through President Lincoln's 1865 legislation and the remarkable fundraising efforts of local women's organizations.

Early Development (1867-1890s)

The first 60 veterans arrived in May 1867. Edward Townsend Mix's iconic Old Main was completed in 1869, followed by Henry C. Koch's series of specialized buildings that transformed the campus into a self-sufficient village.

Golden Age (1890s-1920s)

During this period, the Soldiers Home reached its peak as a comprehensive community, featuring a library with 11,500 volumes, theater performances, recreational activities, and extensive grounds that attracted 40,000 visitors annually.

Modern Era (1930-Present)

In 1930, the facility became part of the newly formed Veterans Administration. The modern Zablocki VA Medical Center opened in 1966, continuing the mission of veteran care while preserving the historic campus.

National Recognition

Designated as a National Historic Landmark District in 2011, the Milwaukee Soldiers Home is recognized as the most intact of the original Civil War-era soldiers' homes, preserving both its architectural heritage and therapeutic landscape.