New State Historic Markers advance in Milwaukee, Wausau

Since 1953, the Wisconsin Historical Society has dedicated over 600 State Historic Markers to commemorate people, places, and events of local, state, or national significance. For over 70 years, none of these markers specifically recognized Wisconsin's first-in-nation role in advancing LGBTQ culture, community, and equality.

We are committed to changing that -- so that our history can always be seen.

Since 1994, the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project has been reconnecting the state with its past to inspire a more equitable and inclusive future. Through our Landmarks Program, we are taking a stand against the systemic erasure of our history by amplifying voice, visibility, and belonging.

• On August 5, 2024, the History Project installed the state's first LGBTQ historic marker -- the Black Nite Uprising monument -- which is also one of only three historic markers in the nation to honor a Black woman of transgender experience.

• In February 2025, the History Project achieved approval for a historic marker honoring This Is It (1968-2025,) the state's longest-operating gay bar and one of the ten oldest in the nation, and founder June Brehm (1917-2010.)

Today, the History Project achieved pre-approval for two additional State Historic Markers:

• The Pit (100 Scott Street, Wausau:) the first LGBTQ historic site in north central Wisconsin, operated by Vicky Hasko from 1973-1982 and became a regional destination and community connector in the earliest days of gay liberation.
  
  
• M&M Club (124 N. Water St., Milwaukee:) a cornerstone of the Historic Third Ward from 1976-2006, where founder Robert Schmidt set a new standard of "open windows" at local gay bars and sparked the rebirth of a neighborhood.

“The Pit was a place of connection and belonging at a time when those spaces were limited in north central Wisconsin," said Blake Opal-Wahoske, executive director of the Marathon County Historical Society. "Recognizing it as part of our local history ensures that LGBTQ+ stories are preserved, honored, and included in the broader narrative of our community.”

"What a golden gift -- in the year of the M&M Club's golden anniversary!" said Milwaukee philanthropist Karen Valentine. "This marker is a nod, a wink, a cheer, a raised glass fromthe voices of the M&M Club here and beyond. The marker will be a point of pride for M&M Club customers -- many of whom still gather every five years to celebrate this sacred space -- and educate and enlighten newcomers about an important historic space."

What happens next?

Pre-approval does not complete the process: it only confirms that the Wisconsin Historical Society agrees the site meets specific requirements to earn a State Historic Marker. Next, the History Project will work with property owners, local municipalities, and community groups to advance a formal research application (including marker language) to the Wisconsin Historical Society.

Once approved, State Historic Markers require a six-month lead time for installation. The History Project is hoping for an October dedication to coincide with National LGBTQ History Month. In addition, the project is researching two additional historic sites (in Madison and Green Bay) to join the ever-growing statewide collection.

Note: State Historic Markers do not impose any legal restrictions or conditions on any property. Owners retain the right to sell, alter, or demolish the property. Historic markers do not provide any preserved or protected status. These memorials exist to keep the story of a historic site alive, even when/where the structures are gone.

All landmarks are privately funded with no taxpayer investment. Through the Constellation of Stars annual fundraiser, the History Project is currently accepting donations at over 30 allied businesses throughout the state. As the non-profit steward, the History Project assumes all financial responsibility for application, design, delivery, installation, maintenance, and preservation fees.

"Historic markers do not just magically happen," said Michail Takach, chair of the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project. "Someone has to stand up and make them happen. We are proud to be that someone. These projects require dedication, determination, and the ability to drive collaboration, coalition, and change. Most importantly, they require funding."

"As long as fundraising continues to be relentless, so will we."

Want to support the cause? Consider a tax-deductible online donation to the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project today.