You know those viewers that have the binocular-type lenses that you often see at scenic overlooks and atop tall buildings? Those are popping up across Milwaukee, and they offer a glimpse into the past.
A new initiatives called Viewaukee is bringing history to life in front of your eyes, with viewers in 10 locations (so far) across Milwaukee's downtown and lakefront. When you look into the viewer, you see that site in the past vs. the plain-eye look in the present.
The viewers for Viewaukee are free; each one has a brief history of the site upon which you're gazing. When you look inside, images from the Milwaukee County Historical Society's collection show that are specific to that location. You can consult their website for additional details about the location along with more pictures.
Locations range from the Miller Valley along State Street at the MillerCoors brewery in the west, to the North Point Water Tower above Bradford Beach and the lakefront to the east. In between, locations include an overlook of the Menomonee Valley from the southern end of the Marquette campus; two shots near the Milwaukee Art Museum; and locations up and down the river through the downtown area. Additional locations are in the works.
Fun Fact: The Milwaukee County Historical Society's archives include over one million photos. Fun non-fact: That's almost as many photos as the average female in high school posts to her Instagram in a typical week!