The River From Sycamore St, Meinecke Toy Co., Milwaukee, WI, 1901

Photo taken from the River looking at Sycamore Street, the Meinecke Toy Company and Badger State Fur Building, Milwaukee, WI, 1901.

Mr. Meinecke, a prominent figure in Milwaukee's history, made significant contributions to the city's industrial and civic landscape. In 1855, he established the Milwaukee Willow Works, specializing in toys and furniture made from willow. Recognizing the need for local manufacturing due to import restrictions, he built a large factory in 1864, utilizing materials from his own willow fields.

To this day, one of Mr. Meinecke's buildings, located on Wells Street in Milwaukee, remains as a testament to his legacy. The structure stands near the Powerhouse and Pabst Theaters, serving as a reminder of his entrepreneurial spirit and lasting impact on the city.