Story History

Story School was established in 1849; however, it was known as the Eighth District School of the Town of Wauwatosa. Eventually, it was renamed Thirty-Sixth Street School. At this time, the school was not yet part of the Milwaukee Public Schools System.

In 1927, after several additions to the school building, the land on which the school stood was annexed to the city of Milwaukee. Mary Kappelman, principal at the time, suggested the school adopt a new name as its new identity as a Milwaukee school was formed. At the same time, the City of Milwaukee was changing the name of its streets. Kappelman proposed the school be called Story School, after Albert Story, who she knew to be outstanding in his effort to aid education. Mrs. Ada Kuesel, a daughter of Albert, was consulted about the name change. She said she would be honored and so the school name was officially changed to Story School.

A farmer and philanthropist with a passion for education, Albert Story owned most of the section west of the 35th Street viaduct, where Story School is located – eventually, known as the Story Hill neighborhood. The Story family has a rich history and is highly respected throughout the city of Milwaukee.

Get directions to Story here.