The Milwaukee River area was populated by
Native Americans in the time before European settlement.
Jacques Marquette and
Louis Jolliet navigated from Lake Michigan through the Milwaukee River on their way to the
Fox River and the
Mississippi. Previously (circa 1834–35) the river had been known as the "Maynawalky," while the present-day
Menomonee River was known as the "Milwalky". In the early 19th century, three towns were formed across the banks of the Milwaukee and Kinnickinnic rivers: Juneautown by
Solomon Juneau, Walker's Point by
George H. Walker and Kilbourntown by
Byron Kilbourn. The
quarrel over the formation of a bridge across the Milwaukee River was a key point in the merging of the three towns into the city of Milwaukee in 1846. Once a locus of industry, the river is now the center of a housing boom. New condos now crowd the downtown and harbor districts of
Milwaukee attracting young professionals to the area. The river is also ribboned with parks as it winds through various neighborhoods. Kayaks and fishing boats share the river with party boats. An extensive Riverwalk featuring art displays,
boat launches and restaurants lines its banks in downtown Milwaukee. == Bridges ==