The Founding of Milwaukee: The Great Debate of Three Pioneer Entrepreneurs
Milwaukee, a bustling city of over 540,000 residents, has a storied history dating back over 170 years. Its founding is a tale of three visionaries: Solomon Juneau, Byron Kilbourn, and George H. Walker. This article delves into the unique characteristics and contributions of each leader, as well as the multifaceted story of how Milwaukee was established.
Who were the Founders of Milwaukee?
Three men, Solomon Juneau, Byron Kilbourn, and George H. Walker, played pivotal roles in founding what would become the city of Milwaukee. Each brought a distinct vision and drive to the region, ultimately shaping much of the landscape and urban layout of the city as we know it today.
Solomon Juneau: The First to Arrive
Solomon Juneau was the first of the trio to arrive in the region in 1818. Juneau founded Juneautown, a settlement east of the Milwaukee River, which became the focal point for the eastern part of the city. His early arrival and settlement were instrumental in attracting other settlers to the area, establishing a foundation for Milwaukee's development. Juneau's administration was marked by a vision of creating a thriving business and trade center, contributing significantly to the initial development of the city.
Byron Kilbourn: Disagreement and Competition
Byron Kilbourn was a rival to Juneau and established Kilbourntown on the west side of the Milwaukee River. This became the western part of the city. Kilbourn's intention was to compete with Juneau for dominance in the emerging settlement. The rivalry between the two was not just about business but also influenced the way Milwaukee was laid out. Kilbourn intentionally laid out streets in a non-aligned manner, resulting in the formation of bridges at an angle over the river. This rivalry extended to map-making, where Kilbourn's promotional maps for his side of the city suggested that the opposite side was less desirable, thus creating a distinctive urban grid that still characterizes Milwaukee today.
George H. Walker: The Third Force
George H. Walker added a third dimension to the early development of Milwaukee. In 1834, he established Walkers Point south of the Milwaukee River, which became a significant port area. Walker's contribution was significant in the development of the city's infrastructure and trade networks, especially in the maritime sector. His establishment of Walkers Point played a crucial role in the city's growth and economic prosperity.
Conclusion: How Milwaukee Was Founded
The founding of Milwaukee is a remarkable narrative of entrepreneurial spirit and competition. Solomon Juneau, Byron Kilbourn, and George H. Walker each had their unique visions and methods, but their combined efforts laid the groundwork for the city's future. The strategic positioning of streets and the distinctive layout of Milwaukee, along with the development of key areas like Juneautown, Kilbourntown, and Walkers Point, have contributed to the city's distinctive character. Today, the legacy of these three pioneers is evident in every corner of Milwaukee, from its architecture to its cultural heritage.
Further Reading and Resources
If you are interested in learning more about the history and development of Milwaukee, consider exploring the following resources:
Milwaukee - Wikipedia Milwaukee History Center - Visit Milwaukee Milwaukee Preservation Alliance