On a bright spring morning in Milwaukee, Pabst Mansion took a bold step toward securing its future. Surrounded by the buzz of supporters, community leaders, and Pabst family descendants, the Mansion celebrated the official launch of the first phase of its exterior restoration, a milestone moment in its $5.6 million capital campaign, Pabst, Present, & Future.

More than just bricks and terra cotta, this project is a promise. As Museum Director Jocelyn Slocum noted during the event, “This is more than a construction project; it’s a promise to the future. It’s about ensuring that this irreplaceable cultural resource endures, inspires, and educates for generations to come.”

Honoring the Past, Investing in the Future

The event featured remarks from Mame McCully, Pabst Mansion Board Chair, who reflected on the power of community in making such restoration efforts possible. Representatives from Berglund Construction, Near West Side Partners, and Alderman Robert Bauman joined in underscoring the significance of the Mansion, not only as a historic gem but as a vibrant part of Milwaukee’s urban fabric.

In a symbolic gesture, each speaker signed the underside of original terra cotta elements removed from the Mansion’s façade. These signed pieces will be returned to their rightful place during restoration, embedding this moment of shared commitment into the very bones of the building.

What’s Included in Phase One?

This initial phase addresses some of the most critical needs of the Mansion’s exterior:

• • Essential repairs to brick, mortar, and terra cotta in the most weathered sections.

  • Replacement of the aging flat roof, which has been a source of water infiltration.

  • Full restoration of the mosaic tile porch, conservatory, and porte cochere.

These updates are necessary not only for preservation but also for the safety and comfort of the thousands of guests who visit each year to explore the Mansion’s stories of immigration, architecture, and industry.

Be Part of History

As this chapter of the Mansion’s story unfolds, the public is invited to be part of it. Every gift, every share, and every show of support helps preserve Milwaukee’s past for future generations. To learn more about the Pabst, Present, & Future campaign and how you can contribute, visit pabstmansion.com/pabst-present-future.