MILWAUKEE, Wis. (WFRV) – The effort to formally recognize one of Wisconsin’s most significant LGBTQ+ landmarks has taken a major step forward.
According to a Facebook post, the Wisconsin Historical Society has approved a pre-application for a State Historic Marker honoring “This Is It,” Milwaukee’s oldest continuously operating LGBTQ+ bar.
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Established in 1968, “This Is It” has played a central role in Wisconsin’s LGBTQ+ history. For over five decades, it has served as a gathering place, cultural touchstone, and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in Milwaukee and beyond.
The approval of the pre-application allows the Wisconsin LGBTQ+ History Project to proceed to the next stage of the marker approval process, which includes submitting a full application with additional documentation, research, and support.
The proposed marker would be among the few in Wisconsin to specifically commemorate LGBTQ+ history. If approved, it would recognize not only the bar’s longevity but its broader role in advancing visibility, community-building, and civil rights.
Support for the project includes endorsements from the building’s owner, local businesses, and community stakeholders. Final approval of the marker is pending further review by the Wisconsin Historical Society’s official committee.
A decision on the full application is expected in the coming months.
