Halyard Park has been a widely admired addition to the urban landscape since the 1980s. Whether they live in newer homes or vintage Victorians, residents consider their neighborhood both an act of faith and an expression of pride. As much as any development in Milwaukee's modern history, Halyard Park symbolizes new life in the central city. Early German immigrants lived within walking distance of every necessity. During the week, many walked to work in the industries that lined the nearby riverbanks--tanneries, mills, shoe factories, and the mammoth Schlitz brewery.