Teamwork

Teamwork Milwaukee Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located at the entrance of American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the “Teamwork” sculpture stands as a profound tribute to the ironworkers who helped build the stadium and, more broadly, to Milwaukee’s legacy of labor, unity, and community spirit. Created by the team at Studio Rotblatt Amrany in 2001, this life-sized bronze installation commemorates the lives of Jeffrey Wischer, William DeGrave, and Jerome Starr—ironworkers who tragically lost their lives in the 1999 Big Blue Crane collapse during the stadium’s construction. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the sculpture’s historical context, artistic significance, visiting information (including hours, tickets, and accessibility), and nearby attractions, helping you plan a meaningful visit to one of Milwaukee’s most poignant landmarks (Rotblatt Amrany; Wikipedia; Visit Milwaukee).

Introduction
History and Context of the Teamwork Sculpture
The Big Blue Crane Collapse: Memorialized Tragedy
Artistic Features and Symbolism
Cultural and Historical Significance
Visiting the Teamwork Sculpture: Practical Information
Visitor Experience and Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Sites
Conclusion and Visitor Resources
Sources

History and Context of the Teamwork Sculpture

The “Teamwork” sculpture, commissioned by the Habush, Habush & Rottier Charitable Foundation, was installed in 2001 at American Family Field (formerly Miller Park). Created by Lou Cella, Gary Tillery, and Susan Clinard of Studio Rotblatt Amrany, the sculpture memorializes the tragic loss of three ironworkers—Jeffrey Wischer, William DeGrave, and Jerome Starr—during the 1999 Big Blue Crane accident. Positioned at the stadium’s entrance, the sculpture pays homage to the workers’ enduring legacy and serves as a public reminder of the human costs and collaborative effort behind Milwaukee’s beloved ballpark (Rotblatt Amrany; Wikipedia).

The Big Blue Crane Collapse: Memorialized Tragedy

On July 14, 1999, while American Family Field was under construction, the Big Blue Crane collapsed as it attempted to lift a massive roof section. The accident claimed the lives of Wischer, DeGrave, and Starr—members of Iron Workers Local 8. This tragedy not only delayed the stadium’s completion but also led to industry-wide improvements in construction safety measures. The “Teamwork” sculpture stands as a permanent tribute to these individuals and the collective sacrifices made by workers on large-scale projects (Wikipedia).

Artistic Features and Symbolism

The sculpture features three ironworkers rendered in lifelike detail, dressed in authentic construction attire—jeans, t-shirts, boots, and hardhats. One figure holds a clipboard, representing the blend of physical labor and technical oversight required in modern construction. The figures are arranged closely together, their postures and gazes emphasizing solidarity and mutual reliance.

Symbolism:

Commemoration of Sacrifice: Directly honors the fallen workers of the Big Blue Crane incident.
Collaboration and Unity: The grouping of the figures highlights the essential role of teamwork in both construction and community life.
Dignity of Labor: Portraying ordinary workers as heroic underscores the value Milwaukee places on its industrial roots.
Endurance: Use of bronze ensures the memorial’s lasting presence (Rotblatt Amrany; Kiddle; Wikiwand).

Cultural and Historical Significance

Milwaukee’s identity is intertwined with its history as a working-class city and a baseball town. The construction of American Family Field was a defining civic achievement, and the “Teamwork” memorial connects the city’s industrial past to its contemporary culture. The sculpture also reflects broader American values of perseverance, labor dignity, and communal achievement, resonating with both local visitors and those interested in the nation’s labor history (Milwaukee Brewers Careers; Culture Partners).

Visiting the Teamwork Sculpture: Practical Information

Location and Directions

Address:
American Family Field (formerly Miller Park)
1 Brewers Way, Milwaukee, WI 53214
The sculpture is located outdoors, near the main entrance of the ballpark (Wikipedia).

Visiting Hours

Open 24/7, year-round.
As an outdoor installation on public grounds, the sculpture is accessible at any time.

Admission and Accessibility

Admission: Free. No tickets required.
Accessibility: The site features paved, wheelchair-accessible paths. Visitors with mobility challenges can easily approach the sculpture.

Parking and Transit

Parking:
On game and event days, ample parking is available in the stadium lots (fees may apply). On non-event days, street parking and public lots nearby are options.
Public Transit:
Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) buses provide service to the area. The stadium is also reachable by rideshare, taxi, and bike.

Guided Tours and Events

Stadium Tours:
While there are no tours dedicated solely to the sculpture, American Family Field’s guided tours typically stop at or pass by the memorial.
Special Events:
Annual memorial services and labor-related events may be held at the sculpture. Check the Visit Milwaukee events calendar for updates.

Visitor Experience and Tips

Best Times to Visit: Early mornings, non-game days, or before/after stadium events for fewer crowds.
Photography: The sculpture is photogenic, especially in daylight. Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting.
Reflection: Many visitors leave flowers or notes at the base, creating a living memorial.
Combine Your Visit: Explore nearby attractions such as the Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Historic Third Ward, and Discovery World.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Teamwork sculpture?
A: The sculpture is accessible 24/7 as it is located outdoors.

Q: Is there an admission fee or are tickets required?
A: No, it is free and open to the public.

Q: How do I get to American Family Field?
A: The stadium is accessible by car, public transit, bike, or rideshare. Parking is available on-site.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, paved pathways provide full accessibility.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Stadium tours include stops near the sculpture; check the stadium’s website for schedules.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: The Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, Historic Third Ward, and Discovery World are all within a short distance.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Sites

Milwaukee Art Museum: Renowned for its stunning architecture and extensive art collections (TripXL).
Historic Third Ward: A vibrant district with galleries, shops, and dining (Visit Milwaukee).
Discovery World: Science and technology center on the lakefront.
Betty Brinn Children’s Museum: Family-friendly interactive exhibits.

Conclusion and Visitor Resources

The “Teamwork” sculpture is more than a memorial—it is a testament to Milwaukee’s values of resilience, unity, and the dignity of labor. Whether you are a local resident, a baseball fan, or a visitor seeking to understand the city’s spirit, this landmark offers an opportunity for reflection and appreciation. Plan your visit to this moving site, and explore the surrounding cultural attractions for a rich Milwaukee experience. For the latest updates on events, accessibility, and travel tips, consult official tourism sites or download the Audiala app.

Sources and Further Reading

Recommended: Include high-quality images of the Teamwork sculpture with descriptive alt tags and an interactive map of its location for an enhanced user experience.