The Italian immigrants who arrived at America’s sandy gates in the late 19th and early 20th centuries came in search of many different things. Some sought the economic opportunities presented by a vast and growing economy that sprung notions of wealth and grandeur.

Some yearned to break free from a distant northern-centered government that suffered the growing pains of a young and unequipped newly unified country. Some just wanted a new life, a new slate to write their life’s story on. Although Milwaukee is known for its German heritage, Italian immigrants also had a part in shaping the city. To this day, their sons and daughters keep that legacy alive.