Property Record
2153 N 3RD ST (AKA 2153 N MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DR)
Architecture and History Inventory
| Historic Name: | Schuster's |
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| Other Name: | Gimbel's Midwest |
| Contributing: | Yes |
| Reference Number: | 108785 |
| Location (Address): | 2153 N 3RD ST (AKA 2153 N MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DR) |
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| County: | Milwaukee |
| City: | Milwaukee |
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| Year Built: | 1907 |
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| Additions: | 1918 1941 1948 1950 1913 |
| Survey Date: | 1982 |
| Historic Use: | department store |
| Architectural Style: | Chicago Commercial Style |
| Structural System: | |
| Wall Material: | Brick |
| Architect: | Kirchhoff & Rose |
| Other Buildings On Site: | |
| Demolished?: | No |
| Demolished Date: |
| National/State Register Listing Name: | North Third Street Historic District |
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| National Register Listing Date: | 8/2/1984 |
| State Register Listing Date: | 1/1/1989 |
| National Register Multiple Property Name: | Multiple Resources of N. 3rd St. - Brewers' Hill |
| Additional Information: | in 1984, the building was entirely covered with metal. Architectural Significance: The Schuster Building is an outstanding example of the Chicago Commercial style in the area. It's proportionally large glass area and 'Chicago' windows are very characteristic of the style, and are significant features. Although it includes Neo-Classic Revival details at the top, the design makes a clear departure from the use of most historical refrences in favor of a bold statement of structural clarity. Historical Significance: Edward Schuster & Company Department Store, whose main downtown store was located in the building at 2153 N. 3rd St., grew to be one of Milwaukee's two largest retail department stores, serving the entire metropolitan area. In 1961, Schuster merged with Gimbel Brothers Inc., the other major Milwaukee retailer, to become the largest in Wisconsin, with stores in several major cities across the country. Edward Schuster and Albert Friedmann opened a store together in 1884. By 1906-1907 they constructed this site as a branch store. The Architects were Kirchoff & Rose, a Milwaukee firm, the building costed $140,000. The masonry work was done by contractor Con Raule Jr. In 1913 a major addition was made, expanding to the west and doubling the floor space of the structure. This addition cost $200,000 and was done by architects Burst, Phillips & Heimerl and was constructed by J. Witeyer. |
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| Bibliographic References: | http://www.jsonline.com/business/owner-uncovers-potential-gem-beneath-metal-panels-of-former-schusters-b99480315z1-299693261.html |
| Wisconsin Architecture and History Inventory, State Historic Preservation Office, Wisconsin Historical Society, Madison, Wisconsin |