Discover Milwaukee Public Library's special collections at your neighborhood branch.
Discover Milwaukee Public Library's special collections at your neighborhood branch with a presentation led by one of MPL's special collections librarians. Light refreshments will be provided.
Wednesdays, 11:30 - 12:30 p.m.
May 21 - Milwaukee Public Library Rare Books Collection: The Gugler Lithographic Company.
Presented by Sarah Finn, Special Collections Librarian
The Gugler Lithographic Company was founded in Milwaukee in 1878 by Henry Gugler and his two sons. They started small, printing items such as envelopes, checks, and stationary. By World War II, Gugler was one of Wisconsin's largest operating printing companies, printing everything from can labels to billboards. Sadly over time the Gugler company became less of a family business and was sold off in 1966 to Journal Communications. By 2005, the Gugler brand ceased to exist at all.
July 9, 2025 - Milwaukee Road Beginnings: The First Train in Wisconsin
Presented by Greg Comly, Special Collections Librarian
Step aboard a journey through history as we commemorate the 175th anniversary of Wisconsin’s first rail trip—from Milwaukee to Wauwatosa on November 20, 1849—a pivotal moment that sparked the legacy of the Milwaukee Road. Greg Comly, Milwaukee Road archivist at the Milwaukee Public Library, will guide us through this landmark event and its significance. His engaging presentation will shed light on the origins of Wisconsin’s first railroad, the early days of rail travel in the state, and the rich historical records preserved in the Milwaukee Road Archives.
AGE GROUP: | Older Adults | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | Special Collections & Rare Books | Arts, Music, & Culture |