HISTORY

Milwaukee’s Historical Heritage

Over one hundred and fifty years of Milwaukee pride.
Mabbett & Breeds Historical Photo

Mabbett & Breeds block is a gorgeous mid-nineteenth century building located in Milwaukee, WI that has undergone complete redevelopment. The beautiful exterior has been brought back to its original glory with the façade bearing the name “Mabbett & Breeds Block” above the second story arched window openings.


The structure was commissioned the construction at 184-188 South 2nd Street in 1858 by lumber merchants Hiram Mabbett and Charles Breed. The corner building dates back to 1868, and the adjacent structure at 130 W. Pittsburgh was added as late as 1947.
Originally the building housed merchants, from leather and furniture retailers to a dry goods store and apothecary. Among the building’s occupants was Arthur Welch, who in 1931 started manufacturing leather finishes in Milwaukee for the burgeoning tanning industry. The 1940’s addition to the block housed Welch’s company – Prime Leather Finishes – which began producing shoe creams, leather protectors, and softeners. The company passed on to his brother Frank in 1946, and then to Frank’s son in 1955.
All four properties were purchased for redevelopment as a multi-use retail and apartment project. The entire property has been gutted and in the process of being completely refurbished in a craftsman style true to the original building.
Visit our historic location today!
Arthur Welch with Dogs | Mabbett & Breeds

Arthur Welch.

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