Commission Row in the Third Ward

The Historic Third Ward, mainly the Commission Row area, holds significant meaning as a hub of Market activity for over a hundred years. The modern-day Milwaukee Public Market, which opened in October of 2005, preserves the nature of this historical neighborhood and capitalizes on the history of an area that native Wisconsinites associate with fresh food. Public Markets are being revitalized and new Markets are being developed in cities across the United States. Public Markets reflect the heritage and diversity of the communities they serve. The creation of the Milwaukee Public Market follows this national trend and a way of life that was never lost in Europe.

History of Our Neighborhood

The Historic Third Ward (HTW) is  listed on the National Register of Historic Places as Milwaukee's oldest center of commerce and  warehousing. It was also the site of Milwaukee’s  most devastating fire and its most remarkable rebuilding efforts.

In 1892, "The Great Third Ward  Fire" devastated 16 square blocks of Milwaukee's  vital, riverfront commerce area. The dollar value of property damage was  estimated at $5 million, which is the equivalent of $60 million by today's  tandards. Reconstruction began almost immediately and within 30 years, the  district was rebuilt into the bustling and vital commerce district it had once  been. Designed by local well known architects, the neighborhood's buildings  have a visual continuity that creates a unique urban expression.