Winter 2024 (2) - Flipbook - Page 16
THE LEGEND OF THE
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT HOUSE:
THE STORY OF PABST MANSION
During the holiday season, few
places capture the warmth, elegance,
and charm of a Victorian Christmas
like the historic Pabst Mansion in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Built in the late
19th
century,
this
architectural
masterpiece has become an iconic
symbol of the city’s rich history and is
especially magical during the winter
months when its grand halls sparkle
with festive décor.
But behind the holiday lights and
ornate decorations lies a fascinating
story rooted in American history,
success, and family legacy. Let’s
explore the origins of this famous
house and how it became a treasured
holiday destination.
The story of the Pabst Mansion
begins in 1848 when 12-year-old
Frederick Pabst immigrated with his
family from Thuringia, Germany, to
Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Like many
immigrants, Pabst came with dreams
of building a better life in the U.S. He
worked as a cabin boy on Lake
Michigan steamships and, by 1857,
rose to captain—a title that would stay
with him for life.
In 1862, he married Maria Best,
daughter of Jacob Best, the founder of
Best & Company Brewery, one of
Milwaukee’s largest breweries. Two
years later, Pabst left the sea behind
15
and joined the family brewing
business.
His
leadership
and
innovative spirit helped grow the
brewery into the largest in the U.S. by
1874. In 1889, the brewery was
renamed Pabst Brewing Company, and
the iconic brand was born.
With success came the desire to
build a home that reflected the
family's achievements. In the early
1890s, Captain Pabst commissioned
renowned architect George Bowman
Ferry to design a mansion in the
Flemish Renaissance Revival style, a
nod to the Pabst family’s European
roots. Completed in 1892, the Pabst
Mansion
became
a
stunning
architectural wonder with its steep
gables,
intricate
carvings,
and
luxurious interior.
The home featured 37 rooms,
including 14 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms,
and an expansive ballroom for lavish
gatherings. It also housed stunning
works of art, hand-carved woodwork,
and opulent furnishings imported
from Europe.
Today, the Pabst Mansion comes
alive each winter with its famous "A
Grand Christmas at the Pabst
Mansion" event. From mid-November
through early January, visitors can
experience a breathtaking display of
holiday elegance. Each room is
