Pabst Mansion, Milwaukee (must see)

The Pabst Mansion in Milwaukee is a striking example of Flemish Renaissance Revival architecture and a lasting tribute to one of the city's most influential figures-Captain Frederick Pabst, founder of the Pabst Brewing Company. Built in 1892 and designed by architect George Bowman Ferry, the three-story mansion features elegant brickwork, carved stone details, terra cotta ornamentation, and distinctive Flemish parapets. Inside, the residence once boasted gender-divided parlors: mahogany for the gentlemen, white enamel for the ladies.

Pabst’s journey to success began in 1848 when he immigrated to Milwaukee from Germany at the age of 12. He rose from cabin boy to captain on Lake Michigan steamships before marrying into the Best brewing family and eventually leading the firm-renamed Pabst Brewing Company in 1889-to national prominence.

The Pabst family lived in the mansion until 1908, after which the Archdiocese of Milwaukee purchased it, modifying the property to serve as the residence and chapel for five successive archbishops over nearly seven decades. Ironically, the archdiocese once planned to demolish the building to construct a parking lot.

In 1975, the mansion was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Saved from demolition by preservationists, it was purchased in 1978 by Wisconsin Heritages, Inc. and opened to the public. Since then, it has been gradually restored, with careful attention to historic paintwork and architectural details-such as rediscovering original wall colors hidden behind mirrors and uncovering painted palm fronds on the Master Suite ceiling.

Now run by Captain Frederick Pabst Mansion, Inc., the house offers daily tours and stands as a symbol of Milwaukee’s brewing heritage. Featured in pop culture and continually restored, it remains one of the city’s most iconic historic homes.