Mark Speltz

About the Author

Mark Speltz is a Milwaukee-based writer, historian, and creative director whose work delves into the cultural undercurrents of American life, blending meticulous research with evocative storytelling. With a keen eye for the overlooked and the everyday, Speltz uncovers the narratives hidden in places, people, and artifacts that shape regional identities. His writing has appeared in publications such as The Atlantic, The New York Times, and Atlas Obscura, where he explores themes of migration, labor, and leisure. As a former creative director at the Wisconsin Historical Society, he brings an insider's perspective to stories of the Midwest, celebrating its resilient spirit and quirky traditions. In his acclaimed book Bottoms Up: A Toast to Wisconsin's Historic Bars and Breweries, Speltz raises a glass to the state's boozy heritage, inviting readers on a spirited journey through its taverns and brewing legacy.