This collection is comprised primarily of administrative files. They include annual
reports and correspondence to the Office of the Commissioner. Also included are
departmental reports, meeting minutes and proceedings, construction and repair
proposals, specifications and recommendations regarding methods and products for
departmental operations such as construction and repair, as well as some
publications. The early annual reports also contain reports from the City Engineer.
Note: some annual reports are missing. There are also photographs of various street
scenes, traffic lights and signs, and other related images. Most photographs have a
location and an estimated date.
The bound volumes include books on estimates for work done, record of assessments of
street work and street improvements, orders (indexed), record of public buildings
and grounds, assessments water pipes laid, and an assessment of benefits and damages
of property taken (indexed). The Certificates Redeemed and Sold is divided into
three sections: Interest on Comptroller’s certificates (1855-1865), Street
Commissioner’s certificates (1853-1876), and Redeemed and Sold Interest (1874-1897).
The Special Assessments Installment Records lists assessments for improvements such
as sidewalks, curbs and gutters, grade and gravel, water mains, installment of
sanitary sewers, alley paving, water and sewer lateral extensions, and installation
of permanent black-top roads.
The Appraisal of City-Owned Property details appraisal of property owned by the City
and shows the reproduction cost of the land, building, and all equipment, furniture
and fixtures contained therein as of the stated date. Total figures on summary sheet
represent the cost to the City of Milwaukee to reproduce a building of the same
cubical content, with equipment and fixtures as of that date. Also includes how land
was acquired (i.e. copy of deed). W.P.A. (Works Progress Administration) projects
#2489 and #8409. Other W.P.A. projects are in the Report of Work Accomplished and
Money Expended, includes final cost summary, cost summary by wards, work
accomplished by wards; construction, work accomplished; outside of city;
construction, cost summary of white collar projects, and work accomplished;
city-wide; white collar. Volume 1 also covers C.W.A. (Civil Works Administration)
and W.E.R.A. (Wisconsin Emergency Relief Administration).
