Preserving History, Brewing the future

The History of Schlitz Park

The purchase, development and growth of Schlitz Park have spurred more economic development than in any other area in the City of Milwaukee.

The success of Schlitz Park and the impact it has had on its surrounding Milwaukee communities has been recognized with numerous local and national honors including the Urban Land Institute Award for Excellence for Large Scale Rehabilitation and the Urban Economic Development Association’s National Economic Development Partnership Award.

The property Brewery Works, Inc. first acquired included approximately 46 acres, and over 1.5 million square feet of building area bordered by North Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive on the west, the Milwaukee River on the East, West Vliet Street on the South and West Pleasant Street on the North. Today approximately 800,000 square feet of buildings, expansive green space, plazas and parking comprise the 32 acres of Schlitz Park.

Schlitz Park remains a center of employment just as the property was when it was home to the “largest brewery in the world” and “The Beer That Made Milwaukee Famous.” At its peak, the Schlitz Brewery employed 3,000 people.

Founded in 1849 by German immigrant August Krug, the Krug Brewery’s first year produced 150 barrels of beer. Following Krug’s death in 1856, his widow married the firm’s bookkeeper Joseph Schlitz and changed the brewery’s name to Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company. A period of rapid growth followed, with a new brewery at the present location built in 1870. By the time Schlitz died in 1875, production exceeded 50,000 barrels per year. Leadership passed to August Uihlein, and the company was run by generations of the Uihlein family into the late 1970’s.

Except for a fourteen-year drought during Prohibition (when much of the plant was converted to the production of chocolates), output grew steadily. By 1952, production was in excess of six million barrels per year. But during a protracted labor dispute in 1981, the Stroh Brewing Company of Detroit, Michigan acquired the entire Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company, which at that time consisted of six breweries throughout the United States.

Following completion of the acquisition in 1982, Stroh announced that the Milwaukee Brewery — the Schlitz flagship — would be permanently closed. Shortly thereafter The Brewery Works (TBW) was formed and the sale of the Schlitz Brewery complex from Stroh to TBW was completed in February 1983.

In February, 2019, Crestlight Capital (Crestlight) and TPG Real Estate (TPGRE) purchased the office campus.

“We are honored to continue the strong legacy that existing ownership preserved while managing a property that embodies the heartbeat and history of Milwaukee as a brewery town. We are excited to further enhance the property through continued investment in tenant spaces, common areas, and new amenities that will serve as gathering places for the campus’ active community.”

Schlitz Park’s Run by the River 5K Delivers an Unforgettable Evening Honoring Milwaukee’s Heroes

What a night! On Thursday, September 11, 2025, the Schlitz Park Run by the River 5K once again brought Milwaukee together for the city’s only evening riverfront run and walk—and this year’s event carried a powerful meaning.

Held on such a significant date, the Run by the River was more than just a race—it was a heartfelt tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our firefighters and first responders. Nearly 400 runners and walkers came together to show their support, raising an incredible $30,000 for the Ignite the Spirit Fund – Milwaukee, a nonprofit founded by local firefighters that provides emotional, mental, and financial support to first responders and their families.

Starting this year, the Run by the River will proudly partner annually with the Ignite the Spirit Fund, continuing its mission to celebrate and support the brave men and women who serve our communities.

This year also featured the first-ever Firehouse Challenge, where teams from firehouses across Milwaukee and neighboring cities—including MFD administration and the Repair Shop—competed for bragging rights and the coveted Traveling Axe, proudly sponsored by Ridgeway Woodworks. The friendly rivalry brought extra energy, pride, and community spirit to an already inspiring evening.

After crossing the finish line, participants and supporters gathered at The Tap Yard Beer Garden on the Grunau Riverwalk of Schlitz Park for a well-earned celebratory brew and delicious bites from Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck. Awards were handed out, trivia filled the air, and conversations buzzed late into the evening as everyone celebrated together—remembering, honoring, and giving back.

The 2025 Run by the River was a shining success, continuing founder Gary Grunau’s legacy of community engagement and philanthropy. It was a night that captured the very best of Milwaukee—compassion, connection, and commitment to those who serve.