A Message from Amanda Saso, Executive Director
Dear Members and Friends of the Wauwatosa Historical Society,
I’d like to share an update about the Little Red Store following this weekend’s severe flooding in the Village.
Early Sunday morning, we began monitoring the security cameras at 3 a.m. and watched as water continued to rise around the store. At 7 a.m., I contacted a trusted water and disaster mitigation company to put us on their list for assistance. By 4 p.m., after floodwaters began to recede and with the help of the Wauwatosa Police Department, we were able to access the building. Upon entry, we found the basement completely flooded, with water reaching the landing on the first floor. Water also entered through the back door, making its way down the hall and into the kitchen.
By 5 p.m., a full mitigation crew was on site. Submersible pumps began removing water, and at the peak, more than nine feet had filled the basement. As of today, all water has been pumped out, the basement has been cleared, and sludge has been removed from floors and walls. Next steps include power washing, sanitizing, running air movers and dehumidifiers, and finally using ozone machines to eliminate any lingering odors.
Unfortunately, all contents stored in the basement are a total loss. The City’s Department of Public Works completed removal and disposal today. We remain hopeful that the first-floor wood floors can be saved, though several areas—especially near the basement landing and back hall—show significant cupping. The front porch stairs and back ramp sustained structural damage, and our gardens took a heavy hit. The good news: nothing irreplaceable was lost, and most importantly, everyone is safe.
While we have a bit of a road ahead to restore the Little Red Store, all scheduled rentals for August have been relocated, and we are hopeful to reopen in early to mid-September. Throughout this week, every crew—from the mitigation company and their contractors to the City of Wauwatosa Public Works, city officials, and CP Rail Police and maintenance teams—has been friendly, responsive, and committed to the well-being of our historic building. We are deeply grateful for their dedication.
I also want to thank you—our members, neighbors, and friends—for your outpouring of support. Your texts, emails, calls, and check-ins mean so much to us. In the coming days, we will share ways you can be part of the recovery effort—whether through helping with the final interior clean-up, lending a hand in the gardens, or assisting with exterior repairs.
The Little Red Store has stood for more than 170 years, weathering challenges and serving as a beloved landmark for our community. With your help, she will stand strong for many more.
Help us Restore the Little Red Store! Your support means more than ever right now – financial contributions are always appreciated, and especially impactful during this time. Donate Today!
Work at the Little Red Store is already underway, and we’ll soon need volunteers for clean up. If you are interested in helping, please use our Volunteer Form to send us your contact information.
Watch Executive Director Amanda Saso’s interview with CBS 58 HERE
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