A Place To Sit

Visiting A Place To Sit Milwaukee: Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Milwaukee’s historic Menomonee Valley, “A Place to Sit” is more than a public artwork—it is a profound tribute to the city’s Indigenous roots and evolving urban landscape. Created by artist Kathryn E. Martin in 2009 and commissioned by the Friends of the Hank Aaron State Trail, this evocative installation embodies themes of displacement, resilience, and remembrance. It stands as a physical and symbolic invitation to reflect on the layered histories of the Menominee, Potawatomi, Ho-Chunk, Ojibwe, and other Native American tribes who originally inhabited the region (Friends of the Hank Aaron State Trail, Milwaukee Riverwalk Tour).

With three high-backed chairs engraved with tribal names, set along the Art Loop of the Hank Aaron State Trail, “A Place to Sit” offers visitors both a literal resting spot and a contemplative space. Its location provides not just a historical encounter but also easy access to some of Milwaukee’s most cherished attractions, such as the Harley-Davidson Museum and the Milwaukee RiverWalk.

This guide offers everything you need to plan your visit, including historical context, practical information, travel tips, and nearby attractions—all designed to help you connect with Milwaukee’s cultural heritage.

Indigenous Heritage and Early History of the Menomonee Valley
Displacement and Transformation: European Settlement and Industrialization
The Symbolism and Significance of “A Place to Sit”
Visiting Information
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Special Events and Tours
Educational Value and Historical Context
Integration with Milwaukee’s Public Art Scene
Visitor Experience and Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Indigenous Heritage and Early History of the Menomonee Valley

Long before European settlers arrived, the Menomonee Valley was a fertile marshland serving as a vital resource for Native American tribes including the Menominee, Potawatomi, Ojibwe, Ho-Chunk, Sauk, Mascouten, and Meskwaki. These Algonquian and Siouan peoples relied on the valley for wild rice harvests, communal gatherings, and cultural exchange. The name “Milwaukee” itself is rooted in Algonquian words translating to “pleasant land” or “gathering place by the water,” underlining the city’s longstanding significance as a site of council and community (Milwaukee Riverwalk Tour).

Displacement and Transformation: European Settlement and Industrialization

The 19th century brought dramatic change as French-Canadian fur traders, such as Jacques Vieau, established trading posts, and the city’s founders—Solomon Juneau, Byron Kilbourn, and George H. Walker—developed rival settlements. Industrialization soon followed, and the valley’s marshes were filled to make way for railroads and factories. This transformation led to the displacement of Indigenous communities—a loss poignantly captured by historian John Gurda’s metaphor of a “game of musical chairs,” leaving Native Americans “nowhere to sit.”

The Symbolism and Significance of “A Place to Sit”

Installed in 2009, “A Place to Sit” features three high-backed chairs engraved with the names of Wisconsin’s American Indian tribes. Artist Kathryn E. Martin’s design is both functional and symbolic: the chairs provide rest, evoke dignity, and serve as a permanent acknowledgment of the cultures foundational to Milwaukee’s history. The installation’s presence along the Hank Aaron State Trail ensures that the act of sitting becomes an act of remembrance and recognition (Friends of the Hank Aaron State Trail).

Visiting Information

Location and Accessibility

Address: Emmber Lane & Canal Street, Menomonee Valley, Milwaukee, WI (along the Hank Aaron State Trail Art Loop)
Accessibility: The site is wheelchair accessible via paved trail paths.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Hours: Open year-round, dawn to dusk.
Admission: Free; no tickets are required.

Parking and Public Transit

Parking: Free and paid parking available at nearby trailheads and public lots.
Transit: Accessible via Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus routes and The Hop streetcar.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Hank Aaron State Trail: 15-mile multi-use trail for biking and walking.
Harley-Davidson Museum: Celebrating Milwaukee’s iconic motorcycle heritage.
Three Bridges Park: Urban green space for recreation and wildlife viewing.
Milwaukee RiverWalk: Art-filled pedestrian promenade connecting downtown landmarks.
Historic Third Ward & Milwaukee Public Market: Vibrant neighborhoods with shops and eateries.

Special Events and Tours

Guided Walks: Friends of the Hank Aaron State Trail and local organizations occasionally offer guided tours and cultural events. Check their official website for updates.
Photography: The installation is a popular photo spot, especially during golden hour.

Educational Value and Historical Context

“A Place to Sit” serves as a vital educational resource, sparking dialogue about Indigenous rights, displacement, and reconciliation. Interpretive signage nearby and the engraved tribal names encourage further research, making the site especially valuable for teachers, students, and families. The installation aligns with efforts like the Milwaukee Public Museum’s “A Tribute to Survival,” which honors Wisconsin’s eleven federally recognized tribes (Saving Places).

Integration with Milwaukee’s Public Art Scene

Milwaukee’s commitment to public art is evident throughout the city’s more than 140 outdoor monuments and sculptures (Milwaukee Downtown Public Art). “A Place to Sit” is a key example of how art can foster civic dialogue and cultural recognition. Public art initiatives like Milwaukee Downtown BID #21 and Sculpture Milwaukee work to ensure that narratives of all communities are represented (Freshmind Magazine).

Visitor Experience and Tips

Sit and Reflect: Visitors are encouraged to use the chairs, read the engravings, and consider the historical context.
Best Times to Visit: Spring through fall offer pleasant weather and vibrant surroundings. Weekdays or mornings provide quieter experiences.
Amenities: Nearby parking, restrooms, and food options are available. The trail is pet-friendly and suitable for strollers and bicycles.
Safety: The area is generally safe, though standard urban precautions are advised, especially after dark (Travellers Worldwide).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for “A Place to Sit”?
A: Open daily, dawn to dusk, year-round.

Q: Is there an admission fee or tickets required?
A: No, the artwork is freely accessible to the public.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the area is wheelchair accessible via paved paths.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours are occasionally offered by local organizations; check the Friends of the Hank Aaron State Trail website for details.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: Popular destinations include the Harley-Davidson Museum, Three Bridges Park, Milwaukee Public Market, and the Historic Third Ward.

Conclusion and Call to Action

“A Place to Sit” is more than a sculpture; it is an invitation to engage with Milwaukee’s history, honor Indigenous heritage, and participate in the city’s ongoing narrative of inclusion and renewal. Whether you are interested in art, history, or outdoor recreation, this landmark offers a meaningful and accessible experience.