Irish Milwaukee - WI - Images of America Author:Martin Hintz Milwaukeeís Irish can claim a long and distinguished heritage throughout the cityís history. The fact that Irish immigrants could speak English gave them an advantage and enabled them to become community leaders and gain economic independence. Irishman Thomas Gilbert was village president in 1844, two years before Milwaukee became incorporated. ... more »In 1839, Fr. Patrick Kelly built Milwaukeeís first Catholic Church, St. Peterís. This book captures the story of Milwaukeeís Irish community in photographs, covering everything from the early wave of immigration to todayís annual Irish Fest. ÝÝ« less