A streamlined Art Moderne factory that once produced industrial glass coatings, this 1937 Milwaukee plant exemplifies the era’s celebration of manufacturing as a modern enterprise.
At a glance
Built in 1937 for the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company, this factory showcases the Art Moderne style applied to industrial architecture. The plant represents a significant moment when American manufacturers embraced modern design as a symbol of progress and efficiency.
History
The Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company constructed this enamel production facility during the height of the Depression era, a period when industrial expansion continued despite economic hardship. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2009, recognizing its architectural and historical importance to Milwaukee’s industrial heritage.
What you see
The plant exemplifies Art Moderne design principles through its streamlined forms and industrial character. The style reflects 1930s optimism about technology and manufacturing, expressed through clean lines and functional aesthetics typical of the period’s forward-looking architectural approach.
Cultural significance
The building stands as a testament to Milwaukee’s prominence as an industrial center. It demonstrates how mid-century manufacturers used contemporary design to enhance their corporate identity and celebrate American industrial capability.
Key facts
- Country: United States
- City: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Built: 1937
- Architect/Builder: Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company
- Style: Art Moderne
- Listed: National Register of Historic Places (2009)
- Coordinates: 43.0292°N, 87.9092°W
Practical information & getting there
The plant is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. For current access information and visiting hours, contact local heritage organizations or the Wisconsin Historical Society.
Sources & resources
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