A Legacy of Faith and Resilience

Located at 1046 N. 9th St. in Milwaukee, Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church stands as a symbol of history, faith, and community resilience. Since its establishment in 1878, this historic church has been a cornerstone of spiritual life in the city, earning recognition as a Milwaukee landmark in 1967 and a State Historical Landmark in 1979. Its significance was further cemented with its addition to the National Register of Historic Places.

It's considered one of the finest examples of German-inspired design in Milwaukee.

The church is made of Cream City brick and has a limestone foundation. It featured a grand bell tower with three original bells that weighed a combined 5,263 lbs.

The church's interior was lavishly decorated with hand-carved Wisconsin oak and ash woodwork. It also had a 34-register, 1,600-pipe organ.

A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes

In the days and weeks following the devastating fire that nearly destroyed Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, members of Milwaukee PBS were granted unprecedented access to witness the painstaking process of damage assessment and the careful removal of beloved pieces from the historic building. As the charred remains of steeples and braces were cleared, the craftsmanship of a century became evident. Wooden support beams, remarkably intact, seemed to stand as silent sentinels, their strength perhaps offering a last layer of protection to the ornate lectern, which remained unharmed on the altar.

Amid the destruction, other symbols of the church’s heritage were carefully preserved. Pipes from the organ were gently lifted, suspended above the ground by a single wire cable attached to a restoration crane. The grand piano, once a centerpiece of musical worship, made a poignant appearance as it was delicately lowered to the earth below, a reminder of the church’s vibrant musical tradition.

Throughout this heartbreaking yet awe-inspiring process, the spirit of the building itself seemed to send a message: although the fire had ravaged the roof, the heart of the church—and of its community—would remain. The parish, supported by the broader city of Milwaukee, would come together to ensure that the rafters would once again echo with joyous songs and prayers.

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, with its storied history and immigrant roots, stands as a testament to the belief in community, resilience, and the enduring power of faith. It is not just a Milwaukee landmark; it is a symbol of how a city—and its people—come together to rebuild, restore, and preserve what matters most.

For over 140 years, Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church has stood as a beacon of faith and history in Milwaukee. But in May 2018, a devastating fire nearly destroyed this beloved landmark, threatening the legacy of a church that has been a cornerstone of the community since 1878. Today, the church is rising from the ashes, thanks to the vision of architects and engineers, the skill of dedicated artisans, and the unwavering spirit of its congregation.

"For over four years, our camera crews have followed the restoration efforts, capturing the incredible work of architects, engineers, and craftsmen as they rebuild and restore a Milwaukee legacy," said Debbie Hamlett, General Manager of Milwaukee PBS. "We are grateful to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church for granting us unprecedented access to document this remarkable journey."

As the restoration continues, the church's future remains uncertain due to dwindling funds, making the ongoing effort a race against time. This documentary offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the painstaking work required to restore this historic treasure—while highlighting the deep emotional connection the church holds within the Milwaukee community.

Join us as we explore the challenges, triumphs, and heartwarming stories behind the revival of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, and discover how it is being restored, brick by brick, for future generations.