Lake Park aerial view (1909) by E.C Kropp Co PublishingMilwaukee County Parks
In the early 20th century postcards were a cheap and popular way of communicating with friends and family. Scenic views of Milwaukee's parks, such as this view of Lake Park, were a popular subject.
Lake Park aerial view by E.C Kropp Co PublishingMilwaukee County Parks
These illustrated postcards help tell the history of the park too.
In 1891, the newly formed Milwaukee Parks Commission purchased the land for what would become Lake Park.
The land, which follows the Lake Michigan shoreline for about a mile, included the site of 'the government lighthouse', now known as Northpoint Lighthouse. The original lighthouse and keeper residence was built in 1855.
Lion Bridges and Lighthouse by E.C Kropp Co PublishingMilwaukee County Parks
The Milwaukee Parks Commission hired famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead to design Lake Park.
Construction on Lake Park began in 1892. Early additions included the Lion Bridges, designed by Oscar Sanne. The bridges features four pairs of stone lions that guard the entrance to the park.
Newberry Blvd by C. N. Casper CoMilwaukee County Parks
As part of his design, Olmstead created scenic boulevards to connect Lake Park with River Park (now named Riverside Park). Newberry Boulevard became the formal entrance to Lake Park.
Lake Park rail stattion (1910/1915) by E.C Kropp Co PublishingMilwaukee County Parks
In it's early years, park visitors arrived by horse and carriage or on foot. In 1903 this street car station was added, and in 1905, the city's first dedicated bike path was constructed in the park.
Lake Park Pavilion by M.L Annenberg PublisherMilwaukee County Parks
A pavilion, concert grove and six hole golf course were added in 1903.
Lake Park concerete bridge (1913) by E.C Kropp Co PublishingMilwaukee County Parks
Park amenities and attractions continued to be added in the early 20th century. This concrete arch bridge, spanning the winding Ravine Road, was added in 1905.
Lake Park Ravine Road (1919) by E.C Kropp Co PublishingMilwaukee County Parks
A Grand Stairway, built in 1908, led visitors from the pavilion down to the lakefront and the entrance to Ravine Road.
Lake Park stone arch bridge postcardMilwaukee County Parks
Stone arch and steel arch bridges designed by Oscar Sanne were constructed to span the natural ravines and form a scenic driveway through the park.
Lake Park footbridge (1909) by C. B. Benschel MFG Co.Milwaukee County Parks
Lake Park has continued to change over the past 100 years, but many original features remain.
Northpoint LighthouseMilwaukee County Parks
The park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1993
The eight lions, now restored, still guard the walking paths
Lion BridgesMilwaukee County Parks
And Northpoint lighthouse, now a museum, remains a focal point of the park.
