Pabst Mansion in Milwaukee was home to the famed beer baron Captain Frederick Pabst and his family, and built in 1890. The historic, award winning mansion is a sign of the continued success of the Pabst brand and cultural significance of the property.

  • What is the history of the Pabst Mansion?
    • The Pabst Mansion was designed by George Bowman Ferry and Alfred Charles Clas in 1890 as the family home for Captain Frederick Pabst, the famous Milwaukee beer baron.
    • Construction was completed in the summer of 1892 at a cost of more than a quarter of a million dollars, including home furnishings and art collections.
    • The home was sold in 1908 and became the property of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Milwaukee, serving as the archbishop’s residence for 60 years.
    • In 1975, plans for demolition were underway, but the mansion was saved and opened as an award-winning museum in 1978.
    • It was later placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • How big is the Pabst Mansion?
    • The mansion is 20,019 square feet with 5 full levels, including a basement, 3 livable floors, and an attic.
    • The original construction included 66 rooms, and its modern-day value is estimated at $32.7 million.
  • What restoration efforts are ongoing at the Pabst Mansion?
    • The mansion is in a constant state of restoration to preserve its original design.
    • The organization uses original photography of the home’s interior to replicate its style and design.
  • What types of tours are offered at the Pabst Mansion?
    • Docent-Led Tours – 75-minute guided tours available hourly, covering all three floors.
    • Grand Tours – 2.5-hour tours covering all five floors, offered twice per month. Advance reservations are required.
    • The Grand Tour is partially accessible, with elevator access to four out of five levels.
  • What are the highlights of the Pabst Mansion’s collections?
    • Decorative Arts – Includes 19th-century decorative pieces, custom furniture, ceramics, glassware, clocks, and manuscripts.
    • Fine Arts – Features paintings from Captain and Mrs. Pabst’s collection, some of which are displayed in museums or at the Pabst Brewing Company.
    • The Archives – Established in 1994, this collection includes manuscript materials related to the Pabst family, the brewing industry, and Milwaukee’s Victorian-era architecture.
  • What special events take place at the Pabst Mansion?
    • Brunch with The Barons – Held in June at Forest Home Cemetery, allowing guests to walk through the cemetery’s “beer path” and learn about Milwaukee’s brewing legacy.
    • Summer Wine Tasting – Also held in June, featuring live entertainment, wine sampling, and light appetizers on the mansion’s terrace.
  • Can private events be hosted at the Pabst Mansion?
    • Yes, the Pabst Mansion is available for private events, including:
      • Weddings and receptions
      • Corporate events
      • Bridal showers and engagement parties
      • Meetings and other private gatherings
    • The mansion is a 100% non-smoking venue, and additional regulations, pricing, and reservations are available online.
  • Where is the Pabst Mansion located?
    • The Pabst Mansion is located at:
    • 2000 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53233
    • Phone: 414-913-0808

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