In many ways, the story of Charles and Sarah Allis is the story of Milwaukee. It is one of migration, industry, and generosity. Both Charles and Sarah’s families left the East Coast to settle in Milwaukee, arriving in 1846—the same year the city was established. Sarah and Charles were born in Milwaukee and always called it home.

As their fortune and their family business grew, they made provisions to serve the community in perpetuity by bequeathing a most magnanimous gift of their home and collection to Milwaukee. Their Tudor-style mansion features a world class art collection, including French Barbizon and Hudson River School oil paintings, Asian ceramics, etchings, ancient pottery and glass, and original furnishings.

Changing exhibitions feature work by local, regional, and international artists. Today, the historic Allis home serves as a museum and arts center for Milwaukee and beyond.