Property Record
2748 N 32ND ST
Architecture and History Inventory
| Historic Name: | Romadka Brothers Co. |
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| Other Name: | Briggs & Stratton |
| Contributing: | Yes |
| Reference Number: | 111593 |
| Location (Address): | 2748 N 32ND ST |
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| County: | Milwaukee |
| City: | Milwaukee |
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| Year Built: | 1906 |
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| Additions: | C. 1908 |
| Survey Date: | 19802016 |
| Historic Use: | industrial bldg/manufacturing facility |
| Architectural Style: | Commercial Vernacular |
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| Wall Material: | Brick |
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| Other Buildings On Site: | |
| Demolished?: | No |
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| National/State Register Listing Name: | West Center-North 32nd Industrial Historic District |
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| National Register Listing Date: | 3/23/2020 |
| State Register Listing Date: | 8/16/2019 |
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| Additional Information: | Architectural Statement: The North 32nd Street plant of the Briggs and Stratton Corporation is a sprawling maze of industrial buildings spread over various blocks. Covering a range of style and periods, the existing structures have been well adapted to manufacturing use. Historical Statement: Briggs and Stratton Corporation was founded in 1909 and initially produced automotive components, principally a battery ignition system. It originally occupied one floor of rented space on Clybourn. Since WWII it claims to be the undisputed world leader in the production of single cylinder, four cycle gasoline engines and automotive locks and keys. The main office is at 3300 N. 124th with additional plants at 1706 S. 68th Street and 2748 N. 32nd Street. 2016 - resurveyed, appearance unchanged. Property consists of cream brick industrial lofts in a U-plan with red brick office at center. Office has stone trim and accents and peaked parapets at the corners of the facade and entry portico. |
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| Bibliographic References: | Milwaukee Journal, November 12, 1975. Milwaukee Sentinel, January 25, 1966. Sanborn Insurance Maps, 1894, vol. 4, pl. 411. Briggs & Stratton Corporation, “The History of Briggs & Stratton” (Briggs & Stratton Corporation, 1985), 1–6, 20, Briggs & Stratton Company Collection, Milwaukee County Historical Society. Jeffrey L. Rodengen, The Legend of Briggs & Stratton (Write Stuff Syndicate, 1995), 79–80. |
| Wisconsin Architecture and History Inventory, State Historic Preservation Office, Wisconsin Historical Society, Madison, Wisconsin |