As Madison continues to grow + new buildings are popping up at every corner, it never hurts to take a moment to appreciate the old — the buildings that have stood the test of time on our Isthmus.
Wiedenbeck Warehouse | 619 W Mifflin St. | Est. 1907
Before the Wiedenbeck Warehouse became a highly sought-after apartment in the heart of downtown, it was a hub for blacksmithing + wagon-making supplies. T.E. Wiedenbeck and C.W. Dobelin founded the Wiedenbeck-Doeblin warehouse in 1907, one year before the Ford Model T was invented. Subsequently, this caused the company catering to the horse and wagon industry to become obsolete. A quick pivot to the industrial hardware and lumber business kept Wiedenbeck and Doeblin afloat.
Longfellow Lofts |1015 Mound St. |Est. 1917
The Longfellow School was built in 1917 with state-of-the-art amenities at the time such as a gymnasium, lunchroom, nurse’s office, and library. Visiting the lofts today is like taking a trip back in time as they are five-time recipients of the Historical Preservation Achievement Award from the State Historical Society. Flooring, chalkboards, trophy cases, lockers, and even some basketball hoops are all well-preserved, restored features that give this location its rich, historical feel.
Langdon Hall | 633 Langdon St. | Est. 1929
You know, the one with the red awnings. Located right off of State Street, Langdon Hall was built in 1929 and has been considered home to predominantly UW-Madison students for nearly 100 years. Designed by Flad and Moulton — architects also responsible for work on the Memorial Union + UW hospital — the building invites you to take a closer look at its main entrance to truly appreciate the details that attribute to its architectural grandeur.
