[2] Built in 1885, the central and oldest structures of the complex are the former State Normal School (later the Wisconsin State College of Milwaukee and now the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee), with the central section a Queen Anne design by master-architect E. Townsend Mix.

This progressive school was an achievement of Lizzie Black Kander and Milwaukee's Social Democrats.

Kander wanted young women to be equipped with skills which would get them gainful employment instead of menial jobs.

The school complex was expanded in 1918 with a Tudor-Gothic wing designed by Van Ryn & DeGelleke, and again in 1932 in a similar style.

After WWII enrollment declined as families wanted a broader education for their daughters, and the trade school was converted in 1955 to the Wells Street Junior High.