Milwaukee : Wisconsin

Milwaukee has a German character which is evident from its architecture found in its buildings. The reason for this is that the Germans were the first to settle in Milwaukee in the 1840s. Mid-nineteenth century German immigration laid the foundation for Milwaukee's "golden age," when cultural and political life flourished, culminating in the election of the country's first socialist mayor in 1912. Much later Italians, Irish, African Americans and Mexicans settled here. Milwaukee, the seat of Milwaukee County, is the largest city in Wisconsin covering an area of 96.1 square miles. Milwaukee comprises of Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington, and Waukesha counties. The city is a major Great Lakes port, traditionally known for manufacturing and breweries. Milwaukee has in recent years reemerged as a primary cultural and entertainment center for the Upper Midwest.

Milwaukee experiences continental type of climate with a varied range of temperatures. Arctic air results in several days of bitterly cold weather. The Great Lakes influence the local climate during all seasons, modifying air masses before they reach the city. Summer temperatures seldom exceed 100 degrees.

Area: 96.1 square miles (2000)

Elevation: 581.2 feet above sea level

Latitude: 43.05 N

Longitude: 87.96 W

Average Temperatures: January, 29.4° F; July, 77.7° F; annual average, 46.8° F

Average Annual Precipitation: 32 inches of rain; 45 inches of snow

Population: 578,887 as on 2005

Attractions

    * Kilbourntown House
    * Jeremiah Curtin House
    * St. Joan of Arc Chapel
    * Milwaukee County Zoo

Festivals

    * RiverSplash
    * Summerfest
    * St. Patrick's Day Parade
    * Wisconsin State Fair