Washington Avenue Historic District

Washington Avenue Historic District is a preserved district in Cedarburg containing around 80 buildings spread across 28 acres, featuring structures built from local limestone and fieldstone between the 1840s and 1900s. The buildings display various architectural styles and sizes, ranging from simple residences to institutional and commercial structures from that era.

The district developed during the 19th century as German immigrants settled in the region and built using local limestone resources. It gained official recognition in 1986 through listing on the National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its importance to Cedarburg's architectural preservation.

The German Free School from 1854 shows the educational traditions of early settlers through its stone walls and simple design. The building sits among other historic structures, reflecting how the community valued learning and cultural continuity.

The district is best explored on foot, allowing visitors to examine the buildings and their stonework details up close. Several historic bed and breakfast establishments operate within the preserved structures, providing lodging options for those wishing to stay overnight.

The Cedarburg Brewery Complex dating from the 1840s stands as one of the earliest breweries in southeastern Wisconsin, featuring distinctive limestone walls about 18 inches (46 centimeters) thick, covered with Cream City bricks. The thick construction was essential for maintaining proper brewing temperatures during production.