When was the Milwaukee Soldiers Home established?

The Milwaukee Soldiers Home was established in 1867 as the Northwestern Branch of the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers, following legislation signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1865.

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.

Chronology of the Milwaukee Soldiers Home

Trace the complete timeline of the Milwaukee Soldiers Home from its Civil War origins through its current status as a National Historic Landmark District.

Civil War Era (1864-1870)

1864: Wisconsin Soldiers' Home Association formed by local women
March 3, 1865: President Lincoln signs Act establishing National Asylum for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers
June 1865: Soldiers' Home Fair raises over $100,000
1866: Northwestern Branch officially established
March 1867: 425 acres purchased for Milwaukee site
May 1867: First 60 veterans arrive
1868-1869: Old Main constructed by E.T. Mix

Development Era (1870-1900)

1871: Soldiers' Home Cemetery established
1873: Name changed to National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers
1879: Hospital designed by Henry C. Koch
1881-1882: Ward Memorial Theater completed
1889: Chapel built
1891-1892: Wadsworth Library opened
1894-1895: Headquarters Building completed

Modern Era (1900-Present)

1930: Consolidated into Veterans Administration
1966: Modern 10-story hospital opened
1984: Hospital named Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center
1989: Old Main operations ceased
2010: Roof collapse catalyzes preservation efforts
2011: Designated National Historic Landmark District
2021: Phase 1 restoration completed
2025: Phase 2 restoration begins