The following article was written by Tony Plekan, a Public Services Librarian at the Manitowoc Public Library.
As the United States celebrates its 250th birthday, I think back on our history here in Manitowoc and how much has changed (even in my relatively short lifetime). I greatly enjoy hearing stories of the past, learning about the people who shaped our community, and discovering how Manitowoc became the place we know today. There is history all around us and I would like to share some of that history with you.
Manitowoc Public Library will offer three opportunities for people to learn about some of Downtown Manitowoc’s most iconic buildings. We hope that you will be able to join us for one of our “ManitoWalk: Historic Downtown Walking Tours.”
The tour focuses on 10 historic buildings on Downtown’s 8th Street. As we walk down the street, you’ll hear stories such as how a monetary donation from John Schuette (of Schuette Brothers Department Store) in 1888 is still impacting Manitowoc today. We’ll discuss how an attempted jailbreak contributed to the construction of the Manitowoc County Courthouse. Come take a walk with us and learn about some of the businesses and people that helped establish Historic Downtown Manitowoc.
Manitowoc Public Library is offering three sessions:
Tony Plekan
- Wednesday, June 17 at 10 AM—Registration opens June 1 at 9 AM
- Monday, July 13 at 5:30 PM—Registration opens June 29 at 9 AM
- Monday, August 3 at 5:30 PM—Registration opens July 20 at 9 AM
Registration is required and space is limited! You must be at least 18 years old and be able to withstand walking and standing for over an hour. We will view the historic buildings from the sidewalk only (in other words, the tour does not include the interior of the buildings). In the event of inclement weather, the event will be canceled.
Tours start at Manitowoc Public Library. Please meet us outside by the flagpole about 10 minutes prior to the start of the walking tour.
Much of our lives are lived at a frantic pace, racing from one place to the next. We can often miss plenty of remarkable things that are right in front of us. I invite you to slow down a bit, take a leisurely walk, and listen to the stories behind Downtown Manitowoc. As America looks back on its founding, let’s explore a little of ours.
