Matthew has been speaking to groups of all sizes on topics of Milwaukee history for over a decade. He is currently accepting bookings for 2023 and beyond. Use the contact page on this site to inquire about a speaking engagement on any of the topics below. A small honorarium will be required to cover travel and time expenses. Custom lecture topics are available at a higher rate.
Topics:
Milwaukee Mayhem: Murder and Mystery in the Cream City’s First Century
A collection of true-life short stories exploring the weirdest aspects of Milwaukee’s formative years.
Damn the Old Tinderbox: The Burning of Milwaukee’s Newhall House
The thrilling story of the Newhall House disaster of 1883 – in which Milwaukee’s once-glamourous “Palace of the West” hotel was lost in a spectacular fire that claimed 75 lives. Includes photo presentation.
The Great Blizzard of 1947
The stunning tale of the greatest snowfall in Milwaukee’s history – one that shut down the city for several days. Explores the storm as well as the city’s remarkable coming-together in its aftermath. Includes photo presentation.
Banned in Milwaukee!
The story of the Milwaukee Motion Picture Commission – a board of citizen censors who oversaw every film to play in the city for over 50 years. During the Commission’s reign, Milwaukee was perhaps the most tightly-controlled movie marketplace in the nation. Includes film clips that were once banned from showing the city.
Brew City Goes Dry (Not Really)
The story of Milwaukee during Prohibition – when the Cream City had to find less-than-legal means to keep the party going. Milwaukee didn’t stop drinking during Prohibition, but residents had to get awfully creative about how they got their fix. Includes photo presentation.