Training Example: Milwaukee County Historical Society – Review the Data, Give Your Score & Compare to the Real AI Evaluation

Homehoanmarketing2026-05-01T09:14:55-05:00
[IMG: Milwaukee event attendees at the MCHS museum posing by the historic bank vault and MKE marquee sign.]
[H1] Recognizing & preserving our local history.
[H1] Recognizing & preserving our local history.
Learn More About UsLearn More About Us
[H2] Founded in 1935
The place for people to learn about and to celebrate Milwaukee.
[IMG: Milwaukee County Historical Society museum exterior showing Classical Revival architecture and limestone columns.]
[H3] Visit.
Plan your visit and connect with the rich history of Milwaukee brought to life at MCHS.Plan a VisitPlan a Visit
[H3] Learn.
Serving the diverse communities, ethnicities, and cultures that make up our County, our programs offer a welcoming entry-point to local history.Explore Local HistoryExplore Local History
[IMG: Elementary students participating in a Milwaukee County Historical Society educational school program.]
[IMG: Architectural scale model of a historic Milwaukee landmark building featuring a clock tower and red brick.]
[H3] Collections.
Explore Milwaukee County through our extensive collections of photographs, manuscripts, artifacts, and more.Discover Our CollectionsDiscover Our Collections
[H2] News & Events
Event
[H3] It’s Alive! with Blacktop
September 3 @ 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
[IMG: Interior view of the Milwaukee County Historical Society research library featuring ornate neoclassical architecture, card catalogs, and vintage display cabinets with historical busts.]
Post
[H4] Notice: Change in Research Library Hours
Post
[H4] Call for Artists! Trimborn Harvest of Arts & Crafts
Post
[H4] Experience Brew City’s ‘Final Pour!’
See All News & Events

Mission & Visionhoanmarketing2026-04-28T15:13:14-05:00
[IMG: Interior of the Milwaukee County Historical Society museum event space featuring marble columns, ornate ceilings, and LOVE MKE marquee lights.]
[H2] Our Mission
The Milwaukee County Historical Society was founded in 1935 to collect, preserve, and make available materials relating to the history of the Milwaukee community.Through a broad range of activities, the Historical Society seeks to recognize and preserve our local history. In promoting a greater appreciation of Milwaukee County’s heritage, the Historical Society hopes to develop a better understanding of the issues and challenges facing Milwaukee County today.
[H2] Our vision
The Milwaukee County Historical Society is the place to learn about and to celebrate Milwaukee.
[H2] Learn More About Us
[H3] Meet The Team
[H3] Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the Teamhoanmarketing2026-04-28T15:54:24-05:00
[H2] Staff Members
[IMG: Portrait of Ben Barbera, a Milwaukee County Historical Society staff member.]
[H3] Ben Barbera
Executive DirectorMeet BenMeet BenBen Barbera earned an MA in Public History from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee as well as an MS in Kinesiology and a BA in US History from Indiana University-Bloomington. He started at MCHS as the Assistant Curator in 2014. Progressing through several roles, he was named the Executive Director and President in 2023.
[IMG: Portrait of Steve Schaffer, a Milwaukee County Historical Society staff member.]
[H3] Steve Schaffer
Lead ArchivistMeet SteveMeet SteveSteve Schaffer received his master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2008. Since that time, he has worked with many local organizations including the Milwaukee Archdiocesan Archives, the Wauwatosa Historical Society, Marquette University, and many more. Steve started as a volunteer at the MCHS, became the Assistant Archivist in 2014, and took on the Lead Archivist role in 2022.
[IMG: Portrait of Michael Barera, a Milwaukee County Historical Society staff member.]
[H3] Michael Barera
Assistant Archivist & Digitization SpecialistMeet MichaelMeet MichaelMichael Barera has been the Assistant Archivist and Digitization Specialist at the Milwaukee County Historical Society since June 2022. He is also a Milwaukee resident who is passionate about the city and county’s history, especially its industrial heritage and transportation history. Previously, Michael was a full-time archivist at the University of Texas at Arlington Libraries (2019-22) and at East Texas A&M University (2015-19). A native of Ann Arbor, Michigan, he is twice a graduate of the University of Michigan (BA ’12, MSI ’14).
[IMG: Portrait of Janean Van Beckum, a Milwaukee County Historical Society staff member.]
[H3] Janean Van Beckum
CuratorMeet JaneanMeet JaneanJanean Van Beckum holds a BA and MS in Anthropology with a focus in Archaeology and a Certificate in Museum Studies from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. She has worked for nearly 20 years in museums and archives, the majority of which have been local history organizations.
[IMG: Portrait of Samantha Michalski, a Milwaukee County Historical Society staff member.]
[H3] Samantha Michalski
Development & Communications ManagerMeet SamanthaMeet SamanthaSamantha Michalski holds an MA in Art History from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She brings over a decade of experience in nonprofit fundraising, communications, and museum leadership. She has held roles spanning development, curatorial work, collections management, and museum administration, informing a collaborative and mission-driven approach to communications and relationship building.
[IMG: Portrait of Mary Jo Knapp, a Milwaukee County Historical Society staff member.]
[H3] Mary Jo Knapp
Director of Education & Historic SitesMeet Mary JoMeet Mary JoMary Jo Knapp received her bachelor’s degree in education from UW-Milwaukee and her master’s degree in education at National Louis University. Prior to coming to MCHS, she spent 24 years teaching in the elementary classroom and two years teaching at UW- Milwaukee. In July 2018, Mary Jo began full time at MCHS as the Educator and Lead coordinator for the Trimborn Farm Harvest of Arts and Crafts. In her time with MCHS, Mary Jo Knapp brought the Hands-on History Program to Milwaukee, and the program now reaches over 7,000 students across Milwaukee County each year.
[IMG: Portrait of Christian Jensen, a Milwaukee County Historical Society staff member.]
[H3] Christian Jensen
Education & Historic SitesMeet ChristianMeet ChristianChristian Jensen has been working for the Milwaukee County Historical Society for over three and half years, beginning as a docent at Trimborn Farm and Education Intern before becoming a full-time Educator in 2025. He holds a Masters degree in Public History and a certification in Museum Studies. In his role as an Educator, Christian works with students of all ages across Milwaukee County and develops new educational tools for classrooms to engage with Milwaukee history.
[IMG: Portrait of Olivia Hoff, a Milwaukee County Historical Society staff member.]
[H3] Olivia Hoff
Community Programs ManagerMeet OliviaMeet OliviaOlivia Hoff holds a Masters degree in Public History with a Museum Studies certification from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, earned in 2021. During her graduate studies, she interned with the MCHS in exhibit development and hosted The Healthiest City podcast, a collaborative production by UWM and MCHS. In Spring 2024, Olivia began her role as Programs Manager at MCHS, where she focuses on program development, community engagement, and overseeing the Oral History Program.
[H2] Board of Directors
[H3] ERIC SCHMIDT (Chair)
CG Schmidt
[H3] TYLER PARBS (vice Chair)
Camden Oak Real Estate
[H3] KATHY NUSSLOCK (Secretary)
Amundsen Davis Law
[H3] JOSEPH HEIL, JR.
Morgan Stanley
[H3] TOM AGNELLO
Michael Best & Friedrich LLP
[H3] Clayborn Benson
Wisconsin Black Historical Society & Museum County Executive Appointee
[H3] Hon. M. Joseph Donald
Wisconsin Court of Appeals
[H3] Lindsey D. Draper
Community Leader
[H3] Willie Johnson Jr.
Milwaukee County Supervisor
[H3] Juan Miguel Martinez
Milwaukee County Supervisor
[H3] Daniel Steininger
BizStarts
[H3] Liz Sumner
Milwaukee County Comptroller
[H3] Chia Youyee Vang
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
[H3] Tim Wright
Promontory Point Partners, LLC
[H3] Charles Vogel
Godfrey & KahnEx Officio
[H3] Ben Barbera
Milwaukee County Historical Society Executive Director & President
[H2] Learn More About Us
[H3] Mission & Vision
[H3] Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questionshoanmarketing2026-04-30T08:12:49-05:00
[H4] General
[H6] What is the Milwaukee County Historical Society?
Since 1935, we’ve been collecting, preserving, and sharing stories and objects that tell the history of Milwaukee County. Through a broad range of activities, the MCHS museum and research library seeks to recognize and preserve our local history. In promoting a greater appreciation of Milwaukee County’s heritage, the MCHS hopes to develop a better understanding of the issues and challenges facing Milwaukee County today.
[H6] Where are you located?
910 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53203You’ll find us right on the corner of Kilbourn Avenue and MLK Drive, along the beautiful Milwaukee River. Pere Marquette Park is in our backyard! We’re within walking distance of 3rd Street Market Hall, the Theatre District, Water Street, and Fiserv Forum, making it easy to explore the neighborhood before or after your visit.
[H6] Tell me about your building.
Our building is a true piece of Milwaukee history! Designed by the Kirchhoff & Rose architectural firm in the Beaux-Arts style of the French Renaissance, it originally opened on February 3, 1913, as the Second Ward Savings Bank, built at a cost of $400,000. The Milwaukee County Historical Society was founded in 1935, and eventually found its home here on April 28, 1965, when the Second Ward office of the First Wisconsin National Bank donated the building to Milwaukee County specifically for MCHS’s use.Over the years, we’ve worked to preserve and restore this beautiful space. The restoration project began in 2004 and was completed in 2018, maintaining its historic charm while updating it for modern use. Today, the building houses our museum, archives, and offices, and it has been designated a Milwaukee Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s the perfect place for us to share Milwaukee County’s history with you!
[H6] What’s the story behind the clock outside the MCHS building?
The clock outside our building has its own Milwaukee story to tell. It originally stood in front of M.H. Klopf Jewelry at 2367 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue in Bay View, where it was a neighborhood landmark for many years. In 1963, following the passing of her husband, Mrs. Lillie Klopf generously donated the clock to the Milwaukee County Historical Society.The clock was installed outside the Historical Society and officially dedicated in December 2001. After years of service, it was fully restored in 2018, bringing it back to its original beauty and ensuring it will continue to greet visitors for years to come.
[H6] Why do the upper windows of the building glow at night?
The glowing upper windows are part of Lifelight, a public art installation created in 2005 by New York–based artist Robert Wogan. The project was funded in part by the Milwaukee County Public Art Program and adds a striking, contemporary element to our historic building – connecting Milwaukee’s past with modern artistic expression.
[H6] What are your hours of operation?
We’re open Mondays and Wednesdays through Saturdays from 9:30am to 5:00pm. Hours can change for special events or holidays, so check our website before stopping by.
[H6] Is there an admission fee?
Yes, our admission fee grants access to our museum. General admission is $8.00 per visitor. We offer discounted admission for Seniors, Students, and Military for $6.00 per person. Members get free admission, so it’s a great reason to join! The MCHS is a part of the Museum for All program. To see if you qualify, click here.
[H6] How is MCHS funded?
We’re a nonprofit, which means we rely on donations, memberships, sponsorships, grants, earned revenue, and program fees to keep the history of our community alive.
[H6] What’s the story behind the City Hall letters in your atrium?
Those iconic Milwaukee City Hall letters have found a new home at MCHS! Originally installed in 1906 on the south side of City Hall’s tower, the 42-inch-tall wooden letters were painted white to stand out against the terra cotta exterior and lit with twenty-five-watt bulbs. Over the years, they displayed messages celebrating events, welcoming visitors, honoring soldiers, and marking local and national milestones, and even appeared in the opening credits of Laverne & Shirley!Thanks to a generous donation from MIAD, MCHS now has the letters on display in our atrium, where they rotate with different messages, letting visitors enjoy a piece of Milwaukee history up close.
[H6] Are there really bank vaults in the museum?
There are seven bank vaults throughout the building, weighing up to 22 tons. At the time of construction, the large vaults cost $75,000 to build – equaling over $2,300,000 today. You can step inside one of our vaults during your visit!
[H6] Has a Hollywood movie been filmed at MCHS?
The MCHS was one of the movie sets of the 2009 film, Public Enemies. The movie is set during the Great Depression, and chronicles the final years of the notorious bank robber John Dillinger (portrayed by Johnny Depp). One of the film’s bank robbery scenes was shot here; however, no known bank robberies were ever reported at the Second Ward Savings Bank.
[H4] Visiting & Accessibility
[H6] How does MCHS make the museum accessible for all visitors?
MCHS is committed to making our museum welcoming for all visitors. Elevators provide access to the basement and second floor, and handicapped-accessible doors are located on the east side of the building. Handicapped accessible restrooms are available. There’s also a convenient vehicle drop-off and loading zone on W. Kilbourn Avenue.To enhance accessibility, we offer a sensory kit for visitors who may benefit from additional tools during their visit. Looking ahead to 2026, we hope to make our museum even more accessible with a new wheelchair-accessible entrance on MLK Drive and are currently seeking funding to make this a reality.We’re also proud to partner with Museums for All. Families receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can receive free admission for up to four people by presenting a photo ID and EBT card at the front desk.
[H6] Is parking available?
The Milwaukee County Historical Society is partnering with Power Parking to provide discounted visitor parking. For $10 you may park in the 847 N. Plankinton Ave. lot (at the corner of Plankinton Ave. and Kilbourn Ave.) for up to 5 hours. 20% of the revenue will be donated directly back to MCHS.For discounted parking, DO NOT scan and pay at the lot. After parking your car, instructions for payment will be available at the front desk in the Historical Center.If Power Parking is full, there are several convenient alternatives nearby. The Journal South Lot, located at 921 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, is a secure parking lot directly across the street. Metered street parking is also available on W. Kilbourn Avenue and N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
[H6] Are children welcome?
Absolutely! Our exhibits and programs are designed for visitors of all ages, so bring the whole family.
[H6] Can I bring food or drinks?
Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, but visitors are welcome to bring water. Some events may have refreshments – check event details.
[H6] Are service animals permitted?
Yes, service animals are always welcome.
[H4] Collections & Research
[H6] What types of materials are in your collections?
At MCHS, we preserve and share a wide range of materials that tell the story of Milwaukee County. Our holdings include photographs, documents, maps, artifacts, oral histories, and more – over 3,000 manuscript collections, one million photographs, and more than 80,000 artifacts. We strive to make these resources accessible to the community for learning, research, and enjoyment.The Archives Collection includes materials that document Milwaukee and Milwaukee County, broadly defined. These include official records from Milwaukee County governmental departments, the personal and family papers of individuals and families from Milwaukee County, the records of businesses and organizations based or with significant operations in Milwaukee County, photographs (including slides and negatives) depicting Milwaukee County or taken by photographers from Milwaukee County, maps and atlases that document Milwaukee County or its municipalities, books that contain substantive content about Milwaukee County subjects, and oral history interviews that capture the narratives of everyday Milwaukeeans.The Object Collections Department cares for more than 80,000 items. These range from three-dimensional objects such as textiles, ceramics, political memorabilia, furniture, and artwork to select two-dimensional materials like posters and advertising pieces. Each object helps tell the story of Milwaukee County and is preserved for exhibits and research.
[H6] How can I access your archives or collections?
Researchers can request access through our online form or by contacting our staff. Some items may also be available digitally.
[H6] Do I need an appointment to conduct research?
Yes, please schedule an appointment so we can have everything ready for you.
[H6] Can I request copies or reproductions of materials?
Yes! We can provide scans, photocopies, or digital files. Some services require a fee. To learn more, click here.
[H6] Are there research or reproduction fees?
Sometimes. We’ll always let you know upfront if there are any costs.
[H6] How do I donate historical materials?
We’d love to hear from you! Contact us to discuss your items, whether they’re documents, photos, or artifacts, to see how they might fit in with our collection.
[H6] Does MCHS accept digital materials or oral histories?
Yes! We actively collect digital files and oral histories to help preserve Milwaukee County stories for future generations. Contact us to discuss how the digital materials might fit in with our collection.
[H6] How does MCHS ensure ethical stewardship of its collections?
MCHS staff follows collection policies which are developed following professional museum and archival standards in caring for, documenting, and sharing objects and archival material. These nationally recognized standards ensure we are able to preserve history for generations to come.
[H4] Education & Public Programs
[H6] What type of educational programs do you offer?
We run workshops, lectures, school programs, field trips, family activities, and public events – all designed to help people of all ages connect with history. Visit our Learn page for more information.
[H6] Do you offer programs for schools or youth groups?
Yes! We love working with students and teachers to bring Milwaukee County history into the classroom and beyond with our Hands on History program and field trips to the MCHS and Trimborn Farm. To learn more, click here.
[H6] Are your programs aligned with school curriculum standards?
All of our school programs are designed to support state and national learning standards. Teachers can contact us for more details.
[H6] How can educators schedule a visit or program?
It’s easy! Educators can schedule a Field Trip through our website or by reaching out to our education team.
[H6] Do you offer virtual or off-site programs?
Yes! We can bring history to you through virtual sessions like the Lunch and Learn program series. We offer a variety of off-site programs for community groups through our Speakers Bureau. Click here to see our presentation options. For students, Hands on History brings Milwaukee history into the classroom.
[H4] Exhibits & Events
[H6] What exhibits are currently on view?
You can see our current and upcoming exhibits on our website. We rotate exhibits regularly, so there’s always something new to explore!
[H6] How often do exhibits change?
We have a semi-permanent exhibit coming in June 2026, which will be on display for an extended period. In addition, we feature smaller rotating exhibits that change every 6 months to a year, so there’s always something new and exciting to explore at MCHS.
[H6] Do you host public events or lectures?
Yes! We host a variety of programs throughout the year, from lectures to family events. Check out our events calendar online.
[H6] Can I rent space at MCHS for a private event?
Yes, we love hosting events! Visit The Society website to learn more about renting our space for weddings, parties, or special gatherings.
[H6] How do I stay informed about upcoming events?
Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media @mkehistory to stay in the loop!
[H4] Membership
[H6] What are the benefits of becoming a member?
Becoming a member of MCHS means you’re supporting Milwaukee County history while enjoying exclusive perks! Members receive free or discounted admission to our museum, invitations to special events, newsletters with the latest news, and early access to programs. It’s also a great way to stay connected to the community and help preserve local history.
[H6] What membership levels are available?
There’s a membership that fits everyone! Each level comes with unique benefits. Visit our membership page for full details.
[H6] How do I join or renew my membership?
It’s easy! You can join or renew online or contact our office directly. We’ll make sure your membership is active and that you’re set to enjoy all the benefits.
[H6] Can I give a membership as a gift?
Yes! Gift memberships are a thoughtful way to share the love of Milwaukee County history with friends, family, or colleagues.
[H6] Are memberships tax-deductible?
Yes, membership fees are partially tax-deductible, so you get the satisfaction of giving back to history while enjoying membership perks.
[H6] How do members receive updates and invitations?
Members receive updates through email newsletters, mailed invitations, and occasional phone calls, depending on their preferences. This way, you won’t miss any programs, exhibits, or special events.
[H4] Giving & Sponsorship
[H6] How can I make a donation?
You can donate online, by mail, or in person. We accept both monetary gifts and historical materials that help preserve Milwaukee history.
[H6] Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes! Monetary donations are fully tax-deductible. If you’re interested in donating historical materials, please contact us to discuss what items we can accept and how to contribute.
[H6] Can I make a gift in honor or memory of someone?
Yes! Honoring a loved one with a gift is a meaningful way to support our work.
[H6] Does MCHS accept planned gifts?
Yes, planned giving is a wonderful way to make a lasting impact. Contact us to learn more.
[H6] How are donations used?
Donations help us preserve collections, run programs, host exhibits, and keep our doors open for the community.
[H6] Are sponsorship opportunities available for events or programs?
Yes! Businesses and individuals can sponsor events, programs, or exhibits. Contact us to learn more.
[H4] Community Engagement & Partnerships
[H6] How does