Milwaukee Theatre's rich political history sets the perfect stage for the GOP debate

MILWAUKEE -- Over the next few days, some of the biggest names in American politics will be descending on Milwaukee. But it's not the first time the city has taken center stage in the country's political theater.

Milwaukee Theatre

Not only does Milwaukee have a storied history of hosting presidents and presidential candidates, but the venue staging the debate for Tuesday, November 10th has often been at the center of the action.

According to archivist Kevin Abing, the venue ought to feel right at home amidst all that attention.

Kevin Abing

"Almost from the very beginning it was a drawing card for presidents and presidential candidates," said Abing.

Checking into the theater's past is a bit like cracking open a history book. The venue has hosted a long list of dignitaries, including presidents Taft, Wilson and Kennedy -- just to name a few.

Milwaukee Theatre history

And it was the site of perhaps one of the most stoic moments in the history of presidential campaigns.

Milwaukee Theatre

"Roosevelt, it is 1912, and he's running for president," said Abing.

But while campaigning in Milwaukee, Roosevelt was shot and rather than going to the hospital for treatment, he went to the theater and gave a speech.

Theodore Roosevelt

"He talked for well over an hour and you know, nobody in the auditorium knew. I mean, right at the very end he mentioned how he was shot and you know, he opened up the coat and there was a blood stain there," said Abing.

Milwaukee Theatre history

While Tuesday's debates aren't likely to be so dramatic, they're still yet another big moment in the theater's history.

"There is that long connection with other political presidential candidates, so it makes perfect sense to stage it there," said Abing.

You can watch the debates Tuesday on the Fox Business Network and online -- the first debate starts at 5:00 p.m. and the second at 8:00 p.m.

GOP Milwaukee debate

Here is a guide for the television channels to watch the debate on different cable providers: